Animal Farm Flashcards 3-4

Animal Farm: Key Concepts and Events

• The Animal Farm flag is green with a hoof and a horn, representing the fields of England and the hope for a Republic of Animals after overthrowing humans, similar to the Soviet hammer and sickle emblem.

• The anthem of Animal Farm is called "Beast of England," symbolizing the animals' aspirations and unity.

• The phrase summarizing Animalism taught to the lower animals is "Four legs good, two legs baaaaaad," highlighting a simplistic understanding of their ideology.

• Boxer's learning experience is challenging; he manages to learn only the first four letters of the alphabet, struggling to progress and forgetting prior lessons when trying to advance.

• Mollie's focus in learning is solely on how to spell and write her name, finding joy in decorating it with flowers, reflecting her superficial interests.

• The pigs take the milk and apples for themselves, asserting their superior needs over other animals as they claim these food items are essential for their leadership.

• Squealer is sent to explain the consumption of milk and apples, justifying it with a false premise that it’s necessary for the pigs' intelligence and leadership role.

• The pigs claim that they need to eat better to prevent Mr. Jones from returning, using "SCIENCE" as a rationale for their privileges.

• Napoleon seizes control of Jessie's nine puppies for special education, indicating his belief in elite education and the need for loyalty among chosen followers.

• Napoleon's action with the puppies parallels dictatorial regimes utilizing secret police to maintain power and control over society.

• The neighboring farms are Pinchfield Farm owned by Mr. Frederick (with allegorical ties to Hitler) and Foxwood Farm owned by Mr. Pilkington (representing Winston Churchill and the UK).

• Snowball leads the animal attack against the humans during the Battle of the Cowshed, while Napoleon takes a more passive role, shouting orders from the rear.

• Mollie avoids the battle entirely by hiding in her stable, showcasing her lack of commitment to the revolutionary cause.

• After the battle, Boxer feels guilt over potentially killing a stable boy, representing his moral conflict and reluctance to harm others, even enemies.

• To comfort Boxer, Snowball assures him that the only good human is a dead one, rationalizing their violent struggle against humanity.