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Essay / Theme of Manipulation in Animal Farm
George Orwell's allegorical short story Animal Farm is a powerful exploration of the dangers of manipulation and the abuse of power. Set on a farm where animals overthrow their human owners and attempt to create a society based on equality, the story explores how those in power can use manipulation to maintain control. Throughout the novel, the pigs, particularly Napoleon and Squealer, demonstrate their ability to manipulate other animals through propaganda, lies, and coercion. This theme of manipulation is not only relevant in the historical context of the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin, but it also resonates in contemporary society, where manipulation and abuse of power remain significant issues. By examining the theme of manipulation in Animal Farm, we can better understand how those in power can use their influence to deceive and control others, as well as the destructive consequences that can result from such manipulation. This essay will explore the different forms of manipulation depicted in Animal Farm, the impact of this manipulation on the characters and the society they create, and the broader implications for our understanding of power and control. Through in-depth analysis of the text, we will argue that Orwell's description of manipulation serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked authority and the need to be vigilant against manipulation and abuse of power. The first form of manipulation represented in Animal Farm is the use of propaganda by the pigs, notably through the character of Squealer. From the beginning, the pigs use propaganda to control the thoughts and beliefs of other animals. For example, when pigs start taking more than their fair share of food, Squealer justifies this by saying that the pigs need extra nutrition to maintain their strength, for the sake of all the animals. This manipulation not only allows the pigs to maintain their power and privilege, but it also prevents other animals from questioning their authority. Through this example, Orwell highlights the insidious nature of propaganda and its ability to manipulate the truth for the benefit of those in power. This form of manipulation not only serves to maintain pigs' control over other animals, but it also serves to undermine the principles of equality and fairness that the revolution was supposed to uphold. Using propaganda, the pigs are able to manipulate the reality of the situation and convince the other animals that their actions are justified, thus perpetuating their power and control. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Another form of manipulation depicted in Animal Farm is the use of lies and deception by the pigs, particularly Napoleon. As the novel progresses, Napoleon becomes more and more authoritarian and uses lies to manipulate the other animals into supporting his regime. For example, when Napoleon decides to trade with humans, he initially opposes the idea, but then changes his position and claims that it was always his plan. This manipulation allows Napoleon to maintain his power and control over the other animals, while undermining the principles of the revolution. Through this example, Orwell demonstrates the destructive consequences of manipulation and how it can be used to deceive and manipulate others for personal gain. By using lies and.