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Year 10 - English

Symbolism in 'Animal Farm'

Animal Farm: the pigs and power

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils start their exploration of Orwell's 'Animal Farm' by focusing on the pigs and how they weild power. Pupils first read the book before exploring symbolism, key characters and Orwell's methods. They finally hone their essay writing skills and write about the pigs' use of power.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify and explain key symbols in 'Animal Farm'.

Key Notes

  • Animal Farm is a microcosm because it is a self-contained representation of a larger society and system.
  • The windmill represents how progress can better a society, but can also be exploited.
  • Food is used to symbolise luxury and inequality.
  • Flags and rituals are used to both galvanise the animals and maintain control.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • microcosm: A microcosm is a small place or society that represents something much larger.
  • symbolism: Symbolism is where writers use objects, characters, or elements in their work, to represent deeper ideas and themes.
  • hypocrisy: is when someone pretends to hold certain beliefs, while their actions and behavior contradict or undermine these.
  • ritual: A ritual is a set of actions performed in a particular way with cultural, social or religious significance.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That the animals feel negatively towards the rituals and ideas put forward by the pigs.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Animal Farm is a microcosm because it is a self-contained representation of a larger society and system. The windmill represents how progress can better a society, but can also be exploited.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'microcosm'

A microcosm is a small place or society that represents something much larger.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: That the animals feel negatively towards the rituals and ideas put forward by the pigs. Correction: Think about the response to Beasts of England. Is this same atmosphere created by Napoleon's parade? Why are the pigs' rituals different?

More Lessons In This Unit

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