animal farm violence essay

Animal Farm Theme of Violence

For a fairy tale about a self-governing farm, Animal Farm sure does pile up the bodies. Old Major may have dreamed about animals frolicking in green pastures, but the reality is more like bloody corpses and split hooves. From the violent Rebellion to the violent Battle of the Windmill to the violent executions, Napoleon's reign is one big ick-fest. Does Animal Farm use violence to invalidate Old Major's ideas? Or is violence the reason everything goes wrong?

Questions About Violence

• What different kinds of violence do we see in Animal Farm ? What are the tools of violence, and who is fighting whom here? Do the sides shift over the course of the book?
• How is it that Napoleon executes such extremes of violence, and still has the other animals convinced he's a good guy?
• Are there any animals who don't become violent if provoked? Why or why not?

Chew on This

At first, violence is restricted to animal-on-human violence. As the pigs become increasingly corrupt, animal-on-animal violence becomes more common.

The working class animals are strong enough that they always present a potential for violent rebellion against the pigs.

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Animal Farm

George orwell.

Ask LitCharts AI: The answer to your questions

Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on George Orwell's Animal Farm . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

Animal Farm: Introduction

Animal farm: plot summary, animal farm: detailed summary & analysis, animal farm: themes, animal farm: quotes, animal farm: characters, animal farm: symbols, animal farm: literary devices, animal farm: theme wheel, brief biography of george orwell.

Historical Context of Animal Farm

Other books related to animal farm.

• Full Title: Animal Farm
• When Written: 1944-45
• Where Written: England
• When Published: 1945
• Literary Period: Modernism
• Genre: Allegorical Novel
• Setting: A farm somewhere in England in the first half of the 20th century
• Climax: The pigs appear standing upright and the sheep bleat, “Four legs good, two legs better!”
• Antagonist: Napoleon specifically, but the pigs and the dogs as groups are all antagonists.
• Point of View: Third Person

Extra Credit for Animal Farm

Tough Crowd. Though Animal Farm eventually made Orwell famous, three publishers in England and several American publishing houses rejected the novel at first. One of the English editors to reject the novel was the famous poet T.S. Eliot, who was an editor at the Faber & Faber publishing house. One American editor, meanwhile, told Orwell that it was “impossible to sell animal stories in the U.S.A.”

Red Scare. Orwell didn’t just write literature that condemned the Communist state of the USSR. He did everything he could, from writing editorials to compiling lists of men he knew were Soviet spies, to combat the willful blindness of many intellectuals in the West to USSR atrocities.

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A Tale of Violence: Animal Farm as an Allegory of Social Order

2018, Th. Horan (ed.), Critical Insights: Animal Farm, Ipswich Mass., Salem Press, 2018

Any consideration of Animal Farm must start from the fact that the text is a fairy story. The feature of fable, defined by a millennial tradition, allows Orwell to write a work in which moral, social and political meaning transcends the historical events allegorically referred to, the Russian Revolution and its outcomes in Stalinism, to put itself in universal terms. In this sense, Animal Farm can be read in the key of sociology and political philosophy by referring to Walter Benjamin’s Zur Kritik der Gewalt (Critique of Violence, 1921). In this essay Benjamin argues that the social order, and the legal order it expresses, is affirmed and preserved through violence. In the words of Benjamin, to the revolutionary moment, representing what he calls “divine violence”, follows the “mythical violence”: a connection between the “lawmaking” / “law-preserving” violence and the establishment of “the State power”. This logical-dialectical oscillation is exemplified in Animal Farm. At the promise of a happy society for the animals liberated, with the uprising against the master, follows the slow and unstoppable establishment of a dictatorship of some of them, the pigs, on all the others. The decisive point in this process is the writing of the 7 commandments: the fundamental rules of the new social order that represent the Law as the guarantor of the order itself and the source of the social memory. Even before the use of repressive violence, represented by dogs at their service, pigs employ a subtle violence by intervening on the commandments and modifying the contents to their advantage. The manipulation of the legal sphere coincides with the manipulation of social memory. Animal Farm is, in this perspective, a complex allegory of social order developed on multiple levels. It is a fairy tale in the sense of Phaedrus: a “slave’s tale”, we could say: a story written by the losers of History. It is a narrative representation of the “force of law” in Derrida's sense: “a performative and therefore interpretative violence” affirmed through writing and related to the “mystical foundation of authority”. And, lastly, it is a bitter apologue on the distance that always separates Justice from Law and the consideration of Law as an instrument of power, domination and oppression.

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It occurs very often to observe the exploitation of common people by the politicians owing to leader's bad use of absolute power and the silence of the people. It appears that knowledge and education will lead to absolute power which culminates in suffering and oppression of simple and naïve people in the Soviet Union. The language used in Animal Farm was not known by the majority and this leads to threat through different principles and laws. This enabled the leaders to exploit the others for their greedy desires and to do abnormal actions. As a result of the use of a vague language and the implementation of fear tactics then creating laws to help them to manipulate others, they could convince them and then they invented lies at the interest of leaders. Yet the others due to their simplicities were easily convinced, while power could be used to serve the entire population of the Soviet Union. The study uses historical approach for the analysis of the research.

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Animal Farm

Introduction to animal farm ‎, summary of animal farm, major themes in animal farm, major characters in animal farm, writing style of animal farm, analysis of literary devices in animal farm  .

Cows and horses, geese and turkeys, All must toil for freedom’s sake. Beasts of England, beasts of Ireland, Beasts of every land and clime, Hearken well and spread my tidings Of the golden future time. (Chapter-1)

No animal shall wear clothes. No animal shall sleep in a bed. No animal shall drink alcohol. No animal shall kill any other animal. (Chapter-II)

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Themes and Analysis

Animal farm, by george orwell.

'Animal Farm' is a political allegory based on the events of the Russian revolution and the betrayal of the cause by Joseph Stalin.

Article written by Mizpah Albert

M.A. in English Literature and a Ph.D. in English Language Teaching.

The novel echoes the corrupting nature of power through the themes and symbols. It is a satire on totalitarianism and dictatorship.

Animal Farm Themes

Totalitarianism.

Orwell’s use of Totalitarianism as the theme demonstrates, without education and true empowerment of the lower classes, any revolution led would only be led into oppression and tyranny. Initially, the results of the revolution look promising, as the animals get the direct benefit of their labor. Soon, the pigs adopt human ways and make business deals with farmers that benefit them alone. But, only negative changes happen in the life of the other animals. Still, they continue to work as their leader Napoleon bid them. In the end, the revolutionary leaders become as corrupt and incompetent as the government they overthrew.

Power of Language

Language has the power to engage and disengage. In Animal form, Orwell excellently depicts the power of language through the pigs, only animals with a strong command of language. In the beginning, singing “Beasts of England,” taught by the Old Major, infuses the emotional response.

Also, Snowball compiles the philosophy of Animalism and with his eloquent speech persuades his fellow animals on the farm to follow it. Similarly, Squealer with his adept skill of oration controls the animals on the farm. At the same time, the animals’ adoption of slogans like “Napoleon is always right” or “Four legs good, two legs bad” underlines their lack of understanding and easy to be manipulated nature.

Class structures

From time immemorial class division seems to be a major issue of human society. George Orwell comments on the same through the class division in ‘ Animal Farm ‘ before and after the revolution. He ironically presents the human tendency to have class structures even though they speak of total equality. When the story begins, class division is evident with the human beings being on top of every animal as the rulers of Manor Farm.

During the revolution, they vow not to treat any animal inferior. Soon it all changes, when the pigs, so-called “brain workers”, assume the role of leader and superiors start to control other animals. Evidently, Orwell points out the threat the class division imposes on society when they aim to have democracy and freedom.

Power leading to corruption

“Power leading to corruption” is another major theme Orwell explores in ‘ Animal Farm ’. Many of the characters, predominantly the pigs after the humans demonstrate the theme in the novel. Initially, humans exploit their power over animals. Later following the revolt, the pigs start to fill in the gap created by the eviction of man. They manipulate their position of leadership to exploit other animals. Though Napoleon is presented as the villain of the novel, neither Snowball nor the Old Major is immune to corruption.

As brain workers, the pigs, including Snowball, take advantage of the animal and keeps milk and apple away for them. Even Old Major, who brings forth the idea “all animals are equal,” lecturing from a raised platform, symbolically presents an idea of him being above the other animals on the farm. Altogether, it is made clear that the desire for power, evidently corrupt people.

The Failure of Intellect

Orwell presents a sceptical view on intellect that doesn’t produce anything of importance. In the novel, the pigs, identified as the most intelligent animals, use their intelligence only to exploit other animals than making their life better. Similarly, Benjamin, who is good, acts indifferent towards using the knowledge and speaks philosophically of moral values. Also, the dogs, equally intelligent like the pigs, don’t use their knowledge except to read “the Seven Commandments”. Thus, intelligence is often being unused or ill-used.

The Exploitation of Working Class

‘ Animal Farm ‘ more than being an allegory of the ways humans exploit and oppress one another, throws light upon how they exploit and oppress animals. In the first chapter, through Old Major’s speech, we get a detailed picture of how humans exploit the animals and rob them of their productions.

Also, in the second chapter, when the animals break open the harness-room at the end of the stables, they see “the bits, the nose-rings, the dog-chains, the cruel knives” with which Mr Jones extracted cruelty on the animals. Much like this, during the conversation between Mr Pilkington and Napoleon in chapter 10, he loosely comments “If you have your lower animals to contend with […] we have our lower classes!” Ultimately, it gives a perspective that, in the views of the ruling class, animals and workers are the same.

Analysis of Key Moments in Animal Farm

• Old Major shares his dream of a life without humans. He also teaches the animals “Beasts of England” a song that inspires them.
• Few months after the Old Major’s death, the revolt breaks out when Mr Jones forgets to feed the animals and a fed-up cow pushes her way into the store-shed to look for food. The animals rejoice in their victory. They change the name of the farm to ‘Animal Farm’ and decide on seven commandments to live by.
• The animals are happy and they work well together more efficiently than Mr Jones ever did. Boxer, the horse, puts in a huge effort, with the motto ‘I will work harder!’.
• The Battle of the Cowshed establishes Snowball as a hero. He also sets up ‘committees’ focused on education, reading and writing.
• Napoleon, however, thinks educating the old animals is a waste of time. He focuses on the youngsters and removes the puppies of Jessie and Bluebell, to educate himself which foreshadows his guile nature.  
• At one point, Napoleon drives Snowball out of the Farm with the help of the puppies, who are now grown-up dogs. But, Squealer convinces the other animals that Snowball was a traitor.
• Napoleon announces himself to be the leader. And, he keeps making changes in the seven commandments. Finally, they have only one commandment that says, “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
• Later, he announces that the farm will be trading with neighboring farms. This comes as a shock to the animals as it goes against their commandments of Animalism.
• In the final image, the animals in the Farms are confused and bewildered when they realize that they cannot tell the difference between man and pig. Both have been sublimated into each other.

Style, Tone, and Figurative Language

The style and language of  ‘ Animal Farm ‘ are simple as it involves Animal characters. The dialogues are delivered in short sentences, including the conclusion of the novel: “It was a pig walking on his hind legs […] He carried a whip in his trotter” (Chapter 10).  Further, Orwell has written the sentences in the passive voice, emphasizing the characters (animals) lack of control over the incidents that are happening.

To speak about the tone, it is playful and lighthearted in the beginning. It opens like any other fable where the animals could speak. Also, a tint of excitement could felt, as the animals win over their human suppressers and have hope for a beautiful future of their own. Soon, the tone turns bitter and monotonous in accordance with the story unfolds.

Two of the dominant figurative language use in ‘ Animal Farm ‘ is “onomatopoeia” and “Allusion”. Orwell employs animal sounds and movements to describe the actions. For example, while “stirring” and “fluttering” speaks of their movement, “cheeping feebly” and “grunting” explains their way of communications. 

‘ Animal Farm ,’ being an allegorical novel, alludes to Russian Revolution, through its settings and characters.  The character of the Old Major, Snowball, and Napoleon, alludes respectively to Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky, and Stalin. Also, the events following the revolution: Battle of the Cowshed, Snowball being chased off the Farm, and the slaughter of the hens allude to Trotsky’s exile and the Moscow trials of 1936-38.  Though, the character of Napoleon is an allusion to Joseph Stalin, Russia’s totalitarian dictator, his name attributes to Napoleon Bonaparte, the French world conqueror.

Analysis of Symbols

‘ Animal Farm ’ uses symbols prevalently as it is more than a story of animals. From the Farm to the animals represent the People and events of the Russian Revolution. Unlike a narrative fiction in which the author decides on which events or characters to highlight, here he carefully standardized his plot to evoke the desired response from the readers. are not driven by the plot as in. Instead, his choices are carefully calibrated to evoke a desired response from the reader.

“Whiskey” symbolizes corruption in the novel. The changing perspective of the pigs over, consuming Whiskey delineates how steadily they fall prey to corruption. In the beginning, when Animalism is founded, one of the commandments read: ‛No animal shall drink alcohol.’ For the animals suffered in the hands of humans. But, when Napoleon and the other pigs come to enjoy whiskey, they change the commandment ‛No animal shall drink alcohol to excess’. Finally, when Napoleon uses the money received by selling Boxer, embodies his corrupted nature similar to that of human beings.

The Windmill

The windmill in the novel represents the attempt to modernize Russia. Initially, when Snowball proposes the idea of a Windmill, Napoleon protests against it. Later, he claims it as his own idea. Also, the product coming out inferior in quality refers to the general ineptitude of Stalin’s regime.

Boxer’s character in the novel symbolizes the Russian working class. With his strength, he does most of the work on the farm. Similarly, the working-class people of the Soviet Revolution were exploited for their energy. Like Boxer and the other animals betrayed by the pigs, the people were betrayed by the intellectuals. On the whole, communism was not as beneficial for the working class as it was originally intended to be.

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About Mizpah Albert

Mizpah Albert is an experienced educator and literature analyst. Building on years of teaching experience in India, she has contributed to the literary world with published analysis articles and evocative poems.

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George Orwell

George Orwell is remembered today for his social criticism, controversial beliefs, and his novels ' Animal Farm ' and '1984'.

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Animal Farm by George Orwell: Literary Analysis Essay

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The Significance of the Novel’s Title

The major themes emerging from the novel, important passages and their significance, the setting of the novel and its effects on the plot, the main characters and their motivations, important relationships among characters in the novel, the narrator of the story and impact of his perspective on the narration, the ending of the novel, recommendation of the novel, works cited.

George Orwell’s Animal Farm is often discussed as an allegorical story having the features of the fable and satire. The significance of the novella’s title is in its satirical nature. An animal farm is traditionally discussed as a place where animals are bred by humans. The farms are usually named after the owner. However, Animal Farm is rather different. It is a place where animals are owners of the properties (Orwell 6). While referring to the meaning and significance of the phrase which is used for the title of the novella, it is important to emphasize the opposition between animals and humans as well as their differences.

The name “Animal Farm” is chosen by the characters in order to accentuate the meaning of this specific place where animals can rule instead of humans and without being exploited by them. However, the ownership of the farm by animals is a rather provocative idea. While focusing on the fact that the purpose of the novella is to present the political regime in the Soviet Union before World War II, it is possible to state that the title is significant because it stresses on the inhuman nature of Joseph Stalin’s regime.

Providing the title for the work, Orwell seems to ask the questions about the differences in the regime of the Soviet Union and irrational rule of animals at the farm. The satirical title is significant because the reader also starts asking questions about the political and social meaning of the work’s message and ideas. Using the metaphor in the title, Orwell draws the readers’ attention to the Animal Revolution as his allegory to demonstrate the results of the Russian Revolution of 1917. That is why, the title is significant to represent the double meaning of the story and stimulate the readers’ interpretation of the literal and allegorical aspects of the title’s meaning.

The major themes represented in the novella are the leadership and power in the Soviet Union, corruption, inequality, the role of an individual in the society, exploitation, and control. In his novella, Orwell discusses the power in the Soviet Union as unlimited and focused in the hands of the elite, as it is typical for the totalitarian governments. These leaders are allegorically described in the characters of pigs which are powerful, but selfish, brutal, and vicious.

The theme of corruption is discussed with the help of stating that the absolute power makes people corrupted or depraved because of receiving the unlimited resources. Thus, those pigs which were the leaders of the Animal Revolution betrayed their ideals and principles and chose to live in Manor’s house because of the convenience and extreme desire to satisfy their needs while ignoring the needs of the other working animals.

These animals chose to follow the principle “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others” (Orwell 112). Thus, Orwell also discusses the themes of inequality and the role of an individual in the society. In spite of the fact that the Animal Revolution was declared to be organized for the welfare of all animals, only the leaders received the real benefits. The same situation was observed in the Soviet Union. The social stratification and the division into rich and poor were not overcome, but these problems were hidden now.

The other significant themes discussed in the fable are exploitation and control supported by the leaders of the revolution. The pigs were satisfied with the work of hard-working animals, but any differences in the views could result in violent punishment. This allegory represents how Stalin chose to resolve the problems with dissenters. Thus, the institution of control in the Soviet Union was People’s Commissariat of Internal Affairs, and the guarantee of the pig’s control was dogs which were used to persecute dissenters.

The first passage that attracts the reader’s attention is Major’s speech about the role of a man in the world. Thus, Major states in his speech, “Man is the only creature that consumes without producing…Yet he is lord of all the animals” ( Orwell 6 ). Major notes that a man makes animals work, but he does not care about them and only “prevent them from starving” ( Orwell 6). Major persuades the animals that they are better than men, and they have to rebel while focusing on the threats of exploitation. This statement reflects the Socialists’ arguments declared during the Revolution period. However, the significance of the passage is in the fact that the pigs forget about their statements and ideals while receiving some power, and they begin to exploit the others.

In Chapter 3, the principles of the Socialists’ attitude to work and the belief of the poor men in the better future are reflected. The horse Boxer becomes the inspiration for each animal at the farm because he follows the principle “I will work harder!” (Orwell 25). This principle is actively followed by lower class animals, but it is also used by the pigs to exploit workers. The ideology prevents these animals from seeing the real situation at Animal Farm.

The expulsion of Snowball with the help of dogs can be discussed as the important allegorical description of the struggle between Joseph Stalin and Leon Trotsky observed in the Soviet Union. Napoleon used any means to realize his goals. Thus, he even used dogs to fear Snowball and other animals, “there was a terrible baying sound outside, and nine enormous dogs wearing brass-studded collars came bounding into the barn. They dashed straight for Snowball, who only sprang from his place just in time to escape their snapping jaws” (Orwell 48). Napoleon could not support his leadership with the other resources, and he used violence to state his high social position. This moment is symbolic to represent the deterioration of any Socialist principles declared at Animal Farm.

The next significant passage is about judging Snowball as a scapegoat. This moment is important to describe the reality of Animal Farm and make the reader think about the Soviet Union. Snowball was accused of any crime at the farm only because he did not support Napoleon. Thus, “If a window was broken or a drain was blocked up, someone was certain to say that Snowball had come in the night and done it” (Orwell 66). This situation is the first step in persecution of ‘suspicious’ animals who were killed because of possible relations with Snowball. Thus, the authorities used all the cruel methods to justify and support their regime while violating the basic principles of their ideologies.

The setting of the novella is imaginary Manor Farm located in England. This place becomes the communal territories owned by the animals after the Animal Revolution. The time period associated with the described events is not stated clearly. Animal Farm becomes the place where animals live according to the principles of Animalism and equality of all the animals. These equal animals have the only enemy in men who previously exploited them (Orwell 4).

Concentrating on the allegorical meaning of the novella, it is possible to note that the setting of the story is the Soviet Union after the period of the Russian Revolution in 1917 and during the rule of Joseph Stalin. The setting can be considered as affecting the plot significantly because all the described events occur at Animal Farm where animals try to develop the communal way of life. This farm becomes the place where the pigs win the people and receive the power.

It is possible to state that the story could be told in a different setting, but the features of the fable can be lost because the main distinctive feature of the novella is its allegorical character. While putting the characters of the novella in the real-life setting, it is possible to discuss the moments from the history of the Soviet Union without using any allegories and metaphors in order to accentuate the dramatic features of the regime. That is why, this story about the corrupted leaders and exploited workers presented in a different setting can be discussed as ineffective to reveal the author’s main idea.

The main characters of the novella are Napoleon, Snowball, Boxer, Squealer, and Old Major. The character of Napoleon is based on the personality of Joseph Stalin. This ambitious pig tries to become a leader at Animal Farm after the death of Old Major. Napoleon uses all the means to achieve the goal, and these means are mostly persuasive speeches and unlimited violence. As a result, Napoleon can be described as a political tyrant.

The character of Snowball is based on the personality of Leon Trotsky, the main rival of Joseph Stalin in the Soviet Union. Snowball is an idealist, and he also wants to become a leader at Animal Farm, but he fails because of avoiding the use of extremely violent means and because of basing only on clear reasoning. That is why, Napoleon makes Snowball to become a scapegoat in order to receive the opportunity to cope with the smart competitor.

Boxer is a cart-horse who represents the working class at Animal Farm. Boxer works hard in order to contribute to the farm’s intensive development. He is loyal, strong, naïve, and dedicated to the ideals of Animalism. Boxer can be discussed as motivated by the belief in the better future and achievements of the working animals.

Squealer is a pig who develops the active propaganda at Animal Farm in order to support Napoleon’s ideas and personality (Orwell 20). This pig speaks in a language that is understandable for other animals, and he is motivated by possible Napoleon’s appraisal.

Old Major is an old pig whose character is written basing on the personalities of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin. Old Major is rather wise, and he is focused on finding better ways for living at farm while avoiding the exploitation of the animals as the lower class (Orwell 3-4).

The character to whom it is possible to relate oneself is Boxer. This cart-horse is the appropriate choice because he discusses the hard work as the only way to build the better future, and he tries to inspire the others to do their best to create something good.

The novella is based on the description of the problematic relationships between Napoleon and Snowball. These pigs are rivals in their fight for leadership at Animal Farm. In spite of the fact that both Napoleon and Snowball orient to receiving the unlimited leadership and influence, the methods which they use to complete the goals are different. That is why, Napoleon who uses violence and fear becomes more powerful than Snowball who uses reasoning. Although Napoleon and Snowball start applying the ideals of Animalism to the regime at Animal Farm as a team, they need more leadership after the death of Old Major. These relations are typical for the ruling class where the fight for power is not only extreme but also prolonged.

The other type of relationships is described with references to workers Boxer and Benjamin. Orwell describes these animals’ relations the following way, “the two of them usually spent their Sundays together in the small paddock beyond the orchard, grazing side by side and never speaking” (Orwell 4). The horse and the donkey represent different visions and attitudes to the world and situation, but they live to support each other. Boxer can be described as more enthusiastic and positive while discussing the ideals of Animalism. Benjamin is more passive in spite of the fact that he understands the real situation at Animal Farm. Benjamin chooses not to do anything to fight cruelty of Napoleon’s regime. Thus, this character represents the visions of the majority in the Soviet Union.

The narrative point used in Animal Farm is third-person, and this point of view can be discussed as impersonal and omniscient because Orwell is not presented as a character in the work. First, it seems that the narrator’s perspective is limited, but then it can be found that readers know more than animals which are discussed in the story. Thus, the anonymous narrator not only retells the actions of the animals, but he also presents the motives and thoughts of such characters as Napoleon, Squealer, Boxer, and Benjamin (Orwell 3-14). As a result, this perspective can affect the way according to which the story is told and understood by the reader. The used approach helps accentuate the differences observed in the pigs’ words and their actions toward horses and other animals who work hard to support the commune.

The narrator can also be described as detached, and there are more opportunities for the author to present and develop the allegorical meaning of the novella while focusing on the real motivation of such characters as Napoleon and Squealer while comparing their words, thoughts, and actions with the activities of the other animals at the farm (Orwell 58-64). This point of view is effective to be used in the allegorical novella because the reader can understand all the hidden meanings of the described activities and words while referring to the narrator’s ironical remarks and hints. That is why, the choice of the perspective is rather appropriate to address the idea or message of this satirical story.

The ending of the novella can be discussed as appropriate to represent the result of corruption of the ideals and principles developed at Animal Farm. Thus, animals betrayed their ideals because of the benefits of working with their human enemies. However, the last scene demonstrates that animals and men have many features in common because of their focus on cheating, exploiting, and expanding only their own properties. The quarrel between animals’ leaders and people observed by the other animals through windows of the house reveals that “the creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which” (Orwell 118). Thus, Orwell effectively stresses on how tyrants can use the ideals against the lower classes and support their power with the methods used by the previous leaders.

Animal Farm should be recommended for reading to others because this allegorical novella is helpful to understand the nature of the totalitarian regimes which can be based on the effective ideals. Furthermore, the novella is interesting to help readers become detached from the historical reality associated with the Russian Revolution and look at the events from the other perspective. The satirical anti-utopian story makes the reader think about the true nature of many things observed in different types of the society. In his work, Orwell effectively discussed the threats of the totalitarian regimes which can be corrupted because of the aspects of the human nature. That is why, the novella can be actively recommended to the readers to look at the political events from the perspective of the satirical fable.

Orwell, George. Animal Farm. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1990. Print.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Animal Farm — Power and Corruption in George Orwell’s Animal Farm

Power and Corruption in George Orwell's Animal Farm

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Common misconception

That quotes in essays need to be long and are difficult to remember.

Can you remember anything Boxer says? How about words used to describe characters? Any of the commandments? These are all key quotes.

Hypocritical - To behave in a way that contradicts supposed beliefs or feelings.

Manipulative - To use controlling behaviours to gain power over another or get them to behave in a certain way.

Hierarchy - A system which positions people in relation to status or power.

Dependent - To need the support of someone or something in order to exist.

You will need access to a copy of 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell.

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'Animal Farm' Themes and Symbols

Political allegory, totalitarianism, corruption of ideals, power of language.

• B.A., English, Rutgers University

George Orwell's Animal Farm is a political allegory about revolution and power. Through the tale of a group of farm animals who overthrow the owner of the farm, Animal Farm explores themes of totalitarianism, the corruption of ideals, and the power of language.

Orwell frames his story as a political allegory; every character represents a figure from the Russian Revolution. Mr. Jones, the original human owner of the farm, represents the ineffective and incompetent Czar Nicholas II. The pigs represent key members of Bolshevik leadership: Napoleon represents Joseph Stalin, Snowball represents Leon Trotsky, and Squealer represents Vyacheslav Molotov. Other animals represent the working classes of Russia: initially passionate about revolution eventually manipulated into supporting a regime that was just as incompetent and arguably more brutal than the previous one.

Orwell argues that any revolution led by a small, conspiratorial group can only degenerate into oppression and tyranny. He makes this argument through the main Animal Farm allegory—that of the farm. The revolution begins with firm principles of equality and justice, and initially, the results are positive, as the animals get to labor for their own direct benefit. However, as Orwell demonstrates, revolutionary leaders can become as corrupt and incompetent as the government they overthrew.

The pigs adopt the human ways they once fiercely opposed (drinking whiskey, sleeping in beds), and they make business deals with farmers that benefit them alone. Meanwhile, the other animals see only negative changes in their lives. They continue to support Napoleon and work harder than ever despite the decline in quality of living. Eventually, the promises of heated stalls and electric light—what they've been working for all along—become fantasy.

Animal Farm suggests that totalitarianism and hypocrisy are endemic to the human condition. Without education and true empowerment of the lower classes, Orwell argues, society will always default to tyranny.

The pigs’ descent into corruption is a key element of the novel. Orwell, a socialist, believed the Russian Revolution had been corrupted by power-seekers like Stalin from the start.

The animals' revolution is initially led by Snowball, the key architect of Animalism; at first, Napoleon is a secondary player, much like Stalin. However, Napoleon plots in secret to seize power and drive Snowball away, undermining Snowball's policies and training the dogs to be his enforcers. The principles of equality and solidarity that inspired the animals become mere tools for Napoleon to seize power. The gradual erosion of these values reflects Orwell’s criticism of Stalin as nothing more than a tyrant hanging onto power through the fiction of a communist revolution.

Orwell doesn’t reserve his vitriol for the leaders, however. The animals representing the people of Russia are depicted as complicit in this corruption through inaction, fear, and ignorance. Their dedication to Napoleon and the imaginary benefits of his leadership enable the pigs to maintain their hold on power, and the ability of the pigs to convince the other animals that their lives were better even as their lives become demonstrably worse is Orwell’s condemnation of the choice to submit to propaganda and magical thinking.

Animal Farm explores how propaganda can be used to control people. From the start of the novel, Orwell depicts the animals being manipulated by common propaganda techniques, including songs, slogans, and ever-changing information. Singing "Beasts of England" evokes an emotional response that reinforces the animals' loyalty to both Animalism and the pigs. The adoption of slogans like Napoleon is always right or four legs good, two legs bad demonstrates their unfamiliarity with the complex philosophical and political concepts underlying the revolution. The constant alteration of the Seven Commandments of Animalism demonstrates how those in control of information can manipulate the rest of a population.

The pigs, who serve as the leaders of the farm, are the only animals with a strong command of language. Snowball is an eloquent speaker who composes the philosophy of Animalism and persuades his fellow beasts with the power of his oratory. Squealer is adept at lying and spinning stories to maintain control. (For example, when the other animals are upset about Boxer’s cruel fate, Squealer quickly composes a fiction to defuse their anger and confuse the issue.) Napoleon, while not as smart or as eloquent as Snowball, is skilled at imposing his own false view on everyone around him, as when he falsely inserts himself into the historical record of the Battle of the Cowshed.

As an allegorical novel, Animal Farm is rife with symbolism. Just as the animals represent individuals or groups from Russian history, the farm itself represents Russia, and the surrounding farms represent the European powers that witnessed the Russian Revolution. Orwell’s choices about which objects, events, or concepts to highlight are not driven by plot as in narrative fiction. Instead, his choices are carefully calibrated to evoke a desired response from the reader.

Whiskey represents corruption. When Animalism is founded, one of the commandments is ‛No animal shall drink alcohol.’ Slowly, however, Napoleon and the other pigs come to enjoy whiskey and its effects. The commandment is changed to ‛No animal shall drink alcohol to excess’ after Napoleon experiences his first hangover and learns how to moderate his whiskey consumption. When Boxer is sold to the Knacker, Napoleon uses the money to purchase whiskey. With this act, Napoleon fully embodies the human qualities against which the animals once revolted.

The Windmill

The windmill represents the attempt to modernize Russia and the general incompetence of Stalin’s regime. Snowball initially proposes the Windmill as a way of improving the farm’s living conditions; when Snowball is driven off, Napoleon claims it as his own idea, but his mismanagement of the project and the attacks from other landowners mean the project takes far longer to complete than expected. The final product is of inferior quality, much like many of the projects undertaken by the Soviets post-revolution. In the end the Windmill is used to enrich Napoleon and the other pigs at the expense of the other animals.

The Commandments

The Seven Commandments of Animalism, written on the barn wall for all to see, represent the power of propaganda and the malleable nature of history and information when the people are ignorant of the facts. The commandments are altered throughout the novel; each time they are changed indicates that the animals have moved even further away from their original principles.

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Animal Farm George Orwell

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Violence In George Orwell's Animal Farm

George Orwell's Animal Farm is a literary masterpiece that delves into the complex issue of violence. Throughout the novel, violence is depicted in various forms, serving as a powerful tool for the ruling class to maintain control and suppress dissent among the animals. The portrayal of violence in Animal Farm sheds light on the destructive nature of power and its ability to corrupt individuals and societies. By examining the use of violence in the novel, one can gain a deeper understanding of the oppressive dynamics that exist within authoritarian regimes and the detrimental impact it has on the oppressed.

First and foremost, the use of physical violence in Animal Farm is a prominent theme that underscores the brutal nature of the ruling elite. From the very beginning, the pigs, led by Napoleon, use force and coercion to establish their dominance over the other animals. This is evident in the ruthless behavior of the dogs, which are employed as enforcers to intimidate and attack any dissenters. The violent acts committed by the ruling class serve as a means of instilling fear and subjugating the other animals, thereby solidifying their grip on power. This portrayal of physical violence highlights the ruthlessness and cruelty of those in authority, showcasing the lengths to which they are willing to go in order to maintain control.

Moreover, the psychological and emotional violence depicted in Animal Farm is equally significant in illustrating the oppressive nature of the regime. The manipulation and deceit employed by the pigs, particularly Squealer, to distort the truth and brainwash the animals is a form of violence in itself. By controlling the narrative and spreading propaganda, the ruling class exerts a more insidious form of violence that corrodes the mental and emotional well-being of the animals. This psychological violence serves to disempower the animals, leaving them disillusioned and submissive, unable to challenge the oppressive regime. Through this lens, Orwell effectively portrays the damaging effects of psychological violence and the erosion of individual autonomy under authoritarian rule.

Furthermore, the use of violence in Animal Farm extends beyond the interactions between the ruling class and the animals, as it also encompasses the exploitation of power for personal gain. The greed and corruption exhibited by the pigs, particularly Napoleon and his inner circle, result in the impoverishment and suffering of the other animals. This economic violence perpetuated by the ruling elite highlights the inherent inequality and injustice that arises from the abuse of power. The pigs' insatiable appetite for luxury and privilege at the expense of the other animals epitomizes the callousness and indifference of those in authority, further emphasizing the destructive impact of violence on the oppressed.

In conclusion, George Orwell's Animal Farm offers a compelling exploration of the multifaceted nature of violence within the context of an oppressive regime. Through its portrayal of physical, psychological, and economic violence, the novel illuminates the corrosive effects of power and the detrimental impact it has on the oppressed. By dissecting the use of violence in Animal Farm, one gains valuable insights into the mechanisms of oppression and the destructive consequences of unchecked authority. Ultimately, Orwell's poignant depiction of violence serves as a stark reminder of the perils of authoritarianism and the enduring struggle for freedom and justice.

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Animals Take Over in Animal Farm by George Orwell

George Orwell's "Animal Farm" is a seminal work of literature that explores complex themes of power, corruption, and revolution through the allegorical lens of a farm where animals overthrow their human oppressors. At its core, the novel serves as a scathing critique of totalitarianism and the potential for revolutions to devolve into oppressive regimes. Through vivid characterization, Orwell paints a compelling portrait of the various animals on the farm, each representing different facets of society and human nature. One of the central themes of "Animal Farm" is the abuse of power and the corruption that often accompanies it. The pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, initially espouse principles of equality and solidarity among the animals. However, as they consolidate their power, they gradually become indistinguishable from the humans they once opposed. Through cunning manipulation and propaganda, the pigs exploit the other animals for their own gain, betraying the principles of the revolution and perpetuating a new form of oppression. Moreover, Orwell's portrayal of the animal characters serves as a commentary on human nature and the susceptibility of individuals to manipulation. The naive and trusting nature of characters like Boxer the horse and Benjamin the donkey reflects the tendency of oppressed populations to place their faith in charismatic leaders without questioning their motives. This underscores the importance of critical thinking and vigilance in safeguarding against tyranny and authoritarianism. Furthermore, "Animal Farm" explores the cyclical nature of history and the inherent flaws of political ideologies. Despite the animals' initial optimism and belief in the possibility of a utopian society, their revolution ultimately fails to achieve lasting change. The pigs' betrayal of the animals' trust and their descent into tyranny highlight the potential for revolutions to be co-opted by those seeking power, echoing real-world examples throughout history. In conclusion, George Orwell's "Animal Farm" is a powerful allegory that delves into the complexities of human nature and political power dynamics. Through its rich symbolism and vivid characterization, the novel offers timeless insights into the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of remaining vigilant against oppression. As relevant today as when it was first published, "Animal Farm" continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of freedom and the enduring struggle for justice....

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External Conflicts In George Orwell's Animal Farm

In George Orwell's Animal Farm, external conflicts play a significant role in driving the plot and shaping the characters' actions. One of the most prominent external conflicts in the novel is the power struggle between the animals and the humans. The animals on the farm, led by the pigs, rebel against their human owner, Mr. Jones, in an attempt to gain control of the farm and establish a society where all animals are equal. This conflict sets the stage for the rest of the novel, as the animals must navigate the challenges of running the farm without the guidance of humans. Another external conflict in Animal Farm is the tension between the farm animals and the neighboring human farmers. As the animals work to establish their own self-sufficient society, they face opposition and threats from the humans who seek to regain control of the farm. This conflict escalates throughout the novel, culminating in a violent showdown between the animals and the humans. The external conflict with the neighboring farmers serves as a reminder of the constant struggle for power and control that exists in the world outside of the farm. Additionally, the animals on Animal Farm face external conflicts in the form of propaganda and manipulation from outside forces. The pigs, who take on leadership roles after the rebellion, use propaganda to control the other animals and maintain their own power. They manipulate the truth, rewrite history, and spread lies to keep the other animals in line. This external conflict highlights the dangers of misinformation and the ways in which those in power can use it to maintain control over others. Overall, external conflicts play a crucial role in shaping the events of George Orwell's Animal Farm. From the power struggle between the animals and the humans to the tension with the neighboring farmers and the manipulation by the pigs, these conflicts drive the plot forward and reveal the complexities of power dynamics and control. Through these external conflicts, Orwell explores themes of oppression, manipulation, and the struggle for freedom, making Animal Farm a powerful and thought-provoking allegory for the human experience....

Old Major's Speech In Animal Farm By George Orwell

Old Major's Speech in "Animal Farm" by George Orwell George Orwell's "Animal Farm" opens with a remarkable event - Old Major's speech, a pivotal moment that sets the tone for the entire narrative. Old Major, a wise and respected boar, delivers an impassioned address to the other animals on Manor Farm, urging them to rise up against their human oppressors. This speech serves as the catalyst for the revolution that follows, highlighting themes of oppression, equality, and the corrupting nature of power. One of the most striking aspects of Old Major's speech is its eloquence and persuasive power. Orwell masterfully crafts Old Major's words to evoke a sense of injustice and longing for freedom among the animals. Through vivid imagery and stirring rhetoric, Old Major paints a vivid picture of the animals' suffering under human rule, urging them to throw off the chains of oppression and seize control of their own destiny. His speech resonates deeply with the animals, planting the seeds of rebellion in their hearts and minds. Moreover, Old Major's speech is steeped in the ideals of equality and solidarity. He preaches the principle that all animals are equal and should live free from the tyranny of humans. This message resonates strongly with the oppressed animals, who yearn for a better life free from exploitation. Old Major's vision of a utopian society where animals live in harmony and share equally in the fruits of their labor inspires hope and unity among the animals, laying the groundwork for the revolution to come. However, beneath the surface of Old Major's inspiring rhetoric lies a darker truth - the corrupting influence of power. While Old Major's intentions may be noble, his speech foreshadows the eventual descent of Animal Farm into tyranny and oppression under the rule of Napoleon and the pigs. Despite his calls for equality and solidarity, Old Major himself succumbs to the temptations of power, as evidenced by his privileged position as the revered leader of the animals. This subtle irony serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authority and the perversion of noble ideals. In conclusion, Old Major's speech in "Animal Farm" is a powerful and thought-provoking moment that sets the stage for the events to come. Through his impassioned rhetoric and visionary ideals, Old Major inspires the animals to overthrow their human oppressors and strive for a society built on principles of equality and solidarity. However, beneath the surface lies a warning about the corrupting influence of power and the fragility of noble ideals in the face of human nature....

Animal Farm By George Orwell

"Animal Farm" by George Orwell is a classic novel that serves as a powerful allegory for the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent rise of Stalinism in the Soviet Union. The story is set on a farm where the animals, led by the pigs, overthrow their human owner and establish a society based on the principles of equality and solidarity. However, as time passes, the pigs become corrupted by power and begin to resemble the oppressive humans they once rebelled against. One of the central themes of "Animal Farm" is the corrupting influence of power. The pigs, who initially espouse the principles of Animalism and equality, gradually become more and more like the humans they overthrew. They begin to exploit the other animals for their own gain, manipulate the rules of the farm to suit their needs, and even engage in trade and diplomacy with the humans. Through the character of Napoleon, Orwell illustrates how power can corrupt even the most well-intentioned individuals and lead to tyranny and oppression. Another important theme in "Animal Farm" is the manipulation of language and propaganda. The pigs use slogans like "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others" to justify their increasingly authoritarian rule. They also rewrite history and manipulate the truth to maintain their grip on power. Orwell shows how language can be used as a tool of control and manipulation, and how those in power can distort reality to serve their own interests. In conclusion, "Animal Farm" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the dangers of totalitarianism, corruption, and propaganda. Through the story of the farm animals and their revolution, George Orwell sheds light on the ways in which power can corrupt individuals and institutions, and how language can be used to manipulate and control. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of vigilance, critical thinking, and the preservation of democratic values in the face of tyranny and oppression....

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Friendship And Loyalty In George Orwell's 'Animal Farm'

Friendship And Loyalty In George Orwell's Animal Farm Friendship and loyalty are two important themes in George Orwell's novel Animal Farm. Throughout the story, the animals on the farm demonstrate their loyalty to each other and their commitment to the cause of overthrowing the oppressive human farmer. The bond between the animals is based on their shared desire for freedom and equality, and this sense of camaraderie drives them to work together towards a common goal. One of the most prominent examples of friendship and loyalty in Animal Farm is the relationship between the two pigs, Snowball and Napoleon. At the beginning of the novel, Snowball and Napoleon work closely together to plan the rebellion against Mr. Jones and to establish the principles of Animalism. Despite their differing leadership styles and ideologies, the two pigs are united in their desire to create a better life for all the animals on the farm. However, as the story progresses, their friendship is tested as they compete for power and control over the other animals. Another example of friendship and loyalty in Animal Farm is the bond between Boxer, the loyal and hardworking horse, and Benjamin, the cynical donkey. Boxer and Benjamin may have different personalities and attitudes towards the revolution, but they both share a deep sense of loyalty to their fellow animals. Boxer's motto, "I will work harder," reflects his dedication to the cause and his willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good. Benjamin, on the other hand, serves as a voice of reason and caution, reminding the other animals of the dangers of blindly following their leaders. In conclusion, friendship and loyalty play a crucial role in George Orwell's Animal Farm, shaping the relationships between the animals and driving the plot forward. The bonds of friendship that form between the animals are based on their shared experiences and their common struggle for freedom and equality. However, as the animals learn the hard way, loyalty can be easily manipulated and exploited by those in power. Ultimately, Animal Farm serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of staying true to one's principles and being wary of those who seek to divide and conquer for their own gain....

• Literature and Oral Traditions

George Orwell's 1984 And Animal Farm

George Orwell's novels, "1984" and "Animal Farm," are two of the most influential works of literature in the 20th century. Both novels explore themes of totalitarianism, oppression, and the abuse of power. In "1984," Orwell paints a bleak picture of a dystopian society where the government controls every aspect of its citizens' lives. In contrast, "Animal Farm" is a satirical allegory that critiques the rise of Stalinism in the Soviet Union. Despite their differences in setting and tone, both novels serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of unchecked authority. In "1984," Orwell introduces readers to the oppressive regime of Big Brother, a totalitarian government that monitors its citizens' every move. The protagonist, Winston Smith, rebels against the Party's control and seeks to find freedom in a world where independent thought is forbidden. Through Winston's journey, Orwell highlights the importance of individuality and the inherent human desire for autonomy. The novel's chilling portrayal of surveillance and censorship serves as a stark warning about the dangers of authoritarianism and the erosion of civil liberties. On the other hand, "Animal Farm" uses allegory to critique the Soviet Union under Stalin's rule. The novel follows a group of farm animals who overthrow their human owner and establish a new society based on equality and cooperation. However, as the pigs, led by Napoleon, consolidate power, they become corrupt and oppressive, mirroring the rise of totalitarianism in the Soviet Union. Orwell's portrayal of the pigs' manipulation and betrayal of the other animals serves as a powerful indictment of the abuse of power and the failure of revolutions to achieve true equality. In conclusion, George Orwell's "1984" and "Animal Farm" are timeless works that continue to resonate with readers today. Through their exploration of themes such as totalitarianism, oppression, and the abuse of power, Orwell's novels serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of unchecked authority. By shining a light on the dark side of human nature and the potential for tyranny, Orwell's works remind us of the importance of vigilance and the preservation of individual freedoms in the face of oppressive regimes....

Ignorance In Animal Farm By George Orwell

Ignorance, a prevailing theme in George Orwell's allegorical novella "Animal Farm," serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of blind obedience and the manipulation of information. Set in a farm where animals overthrow their human owner to establish a society governed by equality, the narrative highlights how ignorance among the populace can lead to the erosion of freedom and the rise of tyranny. Initially, the animals' ignorance is exploited by the pigs, who take on leadership roles after the rebellion. Through persuasive rhetoric and manipulation of language, particularly through the alteration of the Seven Commandments, the pigs gradually consolidate their power. For instance, the commandment "All animals are equal" is subtly amended to "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." This modification reflects the pigs' betrayal of the original revolutionary ideals for their own benefit, exploiting the ignorance of the other animals who fail to recognize the contradiction. Moreover, the animals' ignorance is perpetuated through the suppression of education and critical thinking. The pigs, particularly Napoleon, control the flow of information, ensuring that the other animals remain uninformed and compliant. By monopolizing education and disseminating propaganda, the pigs manipulate reality to suit their agenda, further entrenching the cycle of ignorance and subservience. This manipulation is exemplified in the fabrication of false narratives, such as the scapegoating of Snowball for all misfortunes, effectively diverting attention from the pigs' own failures and abuses of power. Furthermore, Orwell illustrates how ignorance breeds apathy and indifference among the oppressed. Despite witnessing the gradual erosion of their rights and freedoms, many of the animals remain passive and resigned to their fate. Their ignorance blinds them to the injustice unfolding before their eyes, allowing the pigs to exploit and oppress them with impunity. The complacency born out of ignorance ultimately enables the pigs to consolidate their authoritarian rule, perpetuating a cycle of oppression and subjugation. In conclusion, "Animal Farm" serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of ignorance and the manipulation of truth. Through the portrayal of the farm animals' descent into tyranny, Orwell warns against the dangers of blind obedience, suppression of education, and apathy in the face of injustice. The novella underscores the importance of vigilance, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge in safeguarding against the erosion of freedom and democracy. As such, "Animal Farm" remains a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of Orwell's message in confronting the challenges of authoritarianism and propaganda in contemporary society....

• Performing Arts

Winston Churchill As A Great Leader In George Orwell's Animal Farm

Winston Churchill As A Great Leader In History Winston Churchill is widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders in history. His leadership during World War II, in particular, has solidified his place in the annals of history as a visionary and courageous leader. Churchill's ability to inspire and unite the British people during their darkest hour is a testament to his leadership skills and unwavering determination. One of Churchill's most notable qualities as a leader was his ability to communicate effectively. His speeches, such as the famous "We shall fight on the beaches" address, rallied the British people and instilled in them a sense of hope and determination. Churchill's eloquence and charisma were instrumental in boosting morale and maintaining the resolve of the British people during the war. In addition to his oratory skills, Churchill was also a master strategist. He was able to make tough decisions and take calculated risks that ultimately led to victory for the Allied forces. Churchill's foresight and ability to think strategically were crucial in shaping the outcome of the war and securing the freedom of the British people. Furthermore, Churchill's leadership style was characterized by his resilience and tenacity. Despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges, Churchill never wavered in his commitment to the cause. His unwavering determination and refusal to back down in the face of adversity inspired those around him and earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. In conclusion, Winston Churchill's leadership during World War II exemplifies what it means to be a great leader. His ability to inspire, strategize, and persevere in the face of adversity set him apart as a visionary and courageous leader. Churchill's legacy continues to inspire leaders around the world to this day, serving as a shining example of what true leadership looks like....

• World leaders

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

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By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

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