Julie Tagg| Think and Write for CSEC English A and B

“Betrayal permeates George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm,’ serving as a central theme that underscores the complexities of power and manipulation.

Using TWO examples from the novel, write an essay that discusses the theme of betrayal. In addition, assess the way that Napoleon betrays any TWO animals. You must also identify and discuss the effectiveness of one dramatic device used to explore betrayal in the novel.

The theme of betrayal is a prominent and recurring motif in George Orwell’s novel “Animal Farm.” The book explores the idea that those in power often betray the trust of those who follow them, leading to their eventual suffering and oppression. In this essay, I will examine the theme of betrayal in detail by analyzing two specific examples from the novel, as well as how two animals, Boxer and Snowball, were betrayed by Napoleon. Additionally, I will discuss the effectiveness of one device used to explore the theme of betrayal in Orwell’s novel.

The first example of betrayal in “Animal Farm” occurs when the pigs begin to hoard resources for themselves. Initially, the pigs are seen as the natural leaders of the revolution and claim to be working for the benefit of all animals. However, as time goes on, they begin to keep the best food, warmest beds, and most comfortable living quarters for themselves. This act of betrayal marks the first step in the pigs’ journey towards becoming the oppressive rulers of the farm, as they use their power to exploit and deceive the other animals.

The second example of betrayal in the novel centers around the pigs’ manipulation of the commandments. Initially, the seven commandments are meant to guide the animals in their new society, but as the pigs gain more power, they begin to change the rules to suit their own needs. They alter the commandments to allow themselves to drink alcohol and sleep in beds, despite having previously condemned these actions. This betrayal of the other animals’ trust is a clear indication of the pigs’ true intentions, as they use their authority to serve their own interests rather than those of the other animals.

Boxer, a loyal and hardworking horse, is betrayed by Napoleon when he is sent to the knacker’s yard to be slaughtered for his meat. Despite Boxer’s unwavering dedication to the farm and its ideals, Napoleon views him merely as a means to an end and betrays his trust by selling him off for profit. Similarly, Snowball, an intelligent and ambitious pig, is exiled from the farm by Napoleon, who then spreads rumors about him to the other animals, portraying him as a traitor and a threat to the farm. This betrayal ultimately leads to Snowball’s demonization and ensures that he will never be able to return to the farm.

Orwell skillfully uses allegory as a device to explore the theme of betrayal in “Animal Farm.” By representing the animals as different groups of people in society, Orwell is able to illuminate how those in power often betray the trust of their followers, leading to their eventual oppression and suffering. This device is particularly effective, as it allows readers to connect the experiences of the animals to real-life situations and historical events, making the theme of betrayal more accessible and relatable to a wide audience.

In conclusion, the theme of betrayal is a significant and recurring motif in “Animal Farm.” By examining two specific examples from the novel, as well as how Boxer and Snowball were betrayed by Napoleon, we can see how those in power often exploit and deceive their followers. Orwell’s use of allegory is also an effective device that allows readers to connect the experiences of the animals to real-life situations, making the theme of betrayal more accessible and relatable. Ultimately, “Animal Farm” serves as a warning about the dangers of betrayal and the importance of vigilance in protecting ourselves and those around us.