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Year 10 - English

The characters in 'Animal Farm' and who they represent

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 explain how the different characters in 'Animal Farm' represent historical figures and ideas.

Key Notes

  • Animal Farm is an allegory for the Russian Revolution which Orwell uses to present his key messages
  • Orwell is using the events of the Russian Revolution to comment on political power and totalitarian regimes
  • Some characters represent historical figures
  • Some characters represent social classes or wider ideas

Vocabulary To Learn

  • represent: To represent something is to serve as a sign or a symbol.
  • proletariat: Proletariat is a term coined by Marx to describe the class of people who do unskilled work.
  • apathetic: If you are apathetic you are unwilling to take action, you show little or no interest or emotion.
  • social class: Social class describes how people are grouped based on their income, job, and social standing, affecting their life chances.
  • bourgeoisie: The bourgeoisie refers to a materialistic upper class that support and benefit from capitalism.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Benjamin is a minor character in 'Animal Farm' and doesn't represent much.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Animal Farm is an allegory for the Russian Revolution which Orwell uses to present his key messages. Orwell is using the events of the Russian Revolution to comment on political power and totalitarian regimes.

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

To represent something is to serve as a sign or a symbol.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Benjamin is a minor character in 'Animal Farm' and doesn't represent much. Correction: Could Benjamin make a difference? Could he have used his intelligence? Benjamin's apathy has a key role in the pigs' reign.

More Lessons In This Unit

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