The Corruption of Power and the Rise of Tyranny
Animal FarmExplores how the pigs, once liberators, become oppressors, and how absolute power corrupts absolutely.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The Initial Good Intentions

The Leaders of the Revolution
The Pigs as Organizers
They teach, plan, and direct the work. They are seen as necessary for the farm's success.
The First Signs of Privilege
They take the milk, but it is justified as health maintenance. The animals accept it.
The Lack of Oversight
The pigs control information and make decisions. There is no check on their power.
The Consolidation of Power

The Dictatorship Established
The End of Democracy
Sunday meetings are abolished. Napoleon rules alone, with the dogs as his enforcers.
The Use of Violence
Dissent is crushed by fear and force. The purges eliminate any opposition.
The Cult of Personality
Napoleon is worshipped as a hero. The animals are conditioned to believe he is always right.
The Complete Tyranny

The Pigs Become the New Humans
The Adoption of Human Vices
Napoleon wears clothes, drinks alcohol, smokes a pipe, and sleeps in a bed. He carries a whip.
The Alliance with Human Farmers
He dines with Pilkington and Frederick, discussing the management of 'lower animals' and 'lower classes.'
The Indistinguishability
The pigs and humans are now partners in oppression. The cycle of tyranny is complete.
the early days
after the expulsion of Snowball
the final chapter