What opinion/ message/ lesson is Orwell attempting to convey to the readers on the subject of 'socialism' in Animal Farm?
Orwell's novella is an analogy for the events leading up to the Russian Revolution and Stalin's eventual rise to power as leader of the corrupt Soviet Union. Initially, Orwell praises old Major's beliefs of equality and camaraderie among the animals. Old Major represents Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin's socialist beliefs. Orwell believed socialism was the most egalitarian form of government and supported its ideologies when compared to capitalism. Unfortunately, the pigs consolidated control over the farm and Napoleon usurps power and becomes a tyrannical leader. Orwell also believed all people are capable of becoming corrupt, which is why some forms of socialism can be dangerous. In many socialist governments, power is consolidated, and decisions are made by a select few. Animal Farm is essentially a warning to citizens that a socialist form of government can become corrupt and easily morph into an authoritative regime.
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