In George Orwell's novel "Animal Farm," the theme of power corrupts is evident throughout the story. The story is set on a farm where the animals overthrow their human owner and create a government run by animals. The main characters, the pigs, take on the roles of the leaders and begin to abuse their power.
At the beginning of the novel, the pigs, who are the most intelligent animals on the farm, take on the role of leaders and develop a system of government based on the principles of "Animalism," which promotes equality and fairness among all animals. However, as the story progresses, the pigs begin to manipulate the other animals and twist the principles of Animalism to suit their own interests.
One of the first examples of the corrupting influence of power is when Napoleon, one of the pigs, begins to secretly trade with humans, despite the fact that the other animals had agreed to have no dealings with humans. Napoleon uses his power and influence to manipulate the other animals and convince them that the trade is necessary for the good of the farm.
Another example of the corrupting influence of power is when the pigs start to become more and more like humans, adopting their habits and even wearing clothes. The pigs begin to live in luxury, while the other animals continue to work hard and struggle to survive. This further divides the pigs and the other animals, and the pigs use their power to keep the other animals in their place.
As the novel comes to a close, it becomes clear that the pigs have become completely corrupt and have become no different from the humans they once overthrew. The other animals, who had originally believed in the ideals of Animalism, are disillusioned and realize that the pigs have used their power to exploit and deceive them.
In conclusion, "Animal Farm" demonstrates how power can corrupt even the most noble of intentions. The pigs, who started out with good intentions, become corrupt and abusive as they gain more power. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of maintaining checks and balances in any system of government.
