Final answer:
The main topic in chapter 1 of 'Animal Farm' is the animals' feelings of discontent with their lives and their treatment by Mr. Jones, leading to the desire for rebellion. It reflects an external conflict and ties into a broader critique of a society that overlooks the needs of nature and individuals in favor of industrial and consumerist pursuits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main topic in chapter 1 of 'Animal Farm' revolves around the feelings of discontent that the animals have regarding their lives under the rule of Mr. Jones. They are culminating their frustration and mistreatment, which is shown through the character of Old Major, who articulates the animals' feelings of oppression and ignites the idea of a potential rebellion.
This reflects an external conflict caused by the environment in which the characters find themselves. The broader theme of the story suggests a critique of a society that prioritizes industrial and consumer growth at the expense of nature and well-being, both of which are symbolically represented through the animals on the farm.