Question

Read George Orwell's Animal Farm Chapter 8. Respond to the questions completely and thoroughly.

Chapter 8
1. After the executions, the commandments were changed again. How? What important message does this send to the reader about the education level of the populace?
2. List ways that Napoleon began acting like a dictator.
3. What does the windmill symbolize?
4. Recount the battle with Frederick starting with the timber sale catalyst.
5. Why did Napoleon think he was dying? What was the result?
6. How and why were the commandments changed again?

Answer 1

Chapter 8 of George Orwell's Animal Farm explores the changing commandments, Napoleon's dictatorial tendencies, the symbolism of the windmill, the battle with Frederick, Napoleon's illness, and the further changes to the commandments. The chapter highlights the manipulation and control of the ruling class over the less-educated populace.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chapter 8 of George Orwell's Animal Farm:

1. After the executions, the commandments were changed again. The commandment 'No animal shall kill any other animal' was changed to 'No animal shall kill any other animal without cause.' This sends the message to the reader that the education level of the populace is limited and easily manipulated. They are not able to critically analyze information and think for themselves.
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3. Napoleon began acting like a dictator in several ways. He changed the commandments to suit his needs, eliminating the original principles of Animalism. He also made all decisions without consulting the other animals and suppressed any dissent or opposition.
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5. The windmill symbolizes the pigs' manipulation and exploitation of the other animals. It represents propaganda and false promises of a better future for all animals, which ultimately benefits only the ruling class.
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7. The battle with Frederick starts with the timber sale catalyst, where Frederick gives forged banknotes as payment. This leads to a physical altercation between the animals and Frederick's men, resulting in the animals reclaiming the timber. However, Frederick later launches a surprise attack on Animal Farm, destroying the windmill and causing significant casualties.
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9. Napoleon thought he was dying due to his excessive consumption of alcohol and the toll it took on his health. As a result, the animals were not allowed to disturb him and had to wait for his recovery, which further cemented his control and authority over them.
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11. The commandments were changed again by the pigs. They altered the original commandment 'All animals are equal' to 'All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others'. The pigs changed the commandments to justify their privileged position and consolidate their power over the other animals.