Question

Who is the first animal to suggest the idea of rebellion?

• A. Snowball
• B. Old Major
• C. Napoleon
• D. Squeeler

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Old Major

Old Major: The Architect of Animalism

• Old Major is a highly respected, wise, and benevolent middle white boar in George Orwell's allegorical novella, Animal Farm.
• He is the first to articulate the idea of animal oppression by humans and envisions a future where animals live free and equal.
• His revolutionary ideas are laid out in a powerful speech he delivers to all the animals gathered in the barn, just before his death.
• In this speech, he introduces the concept of 'Animalism,' which becomes the guiding philosophy for the animal rebellion.
• Old Major identifies humans as the primary oppressors, consuming without producing and exploiting animals for their labor.
• He teaches the animals the revolutionary song, 'Beasts of England,' which quickly becomes an anthem for the rebellion, symbolizing hope and solidarity.
• Although he dies three nights after delivering his speech, his ideas and inspiration are the direct catalyst for the subsequent rebellion led by the pigs, Snowball and Napoleon.

• Symbolic Representation:

  • Old Major is widely considered to be an allegory for two prominent figures:
    • Karl Marx: The German philosopher and economist who, along with Friedrich Engels, developed the theory of communism. Marx's ideas on class struggle and the exploitation of the proletariat by the bourgeoisie are mirrored in Old Major's critique of human exploitation of animals.
    • Vladimir Lenin: The leader of the Bolshevik Revolution and the first head of Soviet Russia. Lenin adapted Marxist theory to the Russian context and led the successful revolution, much like Old Major's ideas inspired the Animal Rebellion.
• His skull is later dug up and placed at the foot of the flagpole, serving as a revered symbol and a reminder of the foundational principles of Animalism, though its meaning is later twisted by the ruling pigs.
• His key teachings emphasize equality, freedom from human tyranny, and the idea that all animals are comrades.