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Animal Farm by George Orwell and The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
Animal Farm by George Orwell and The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b). You are advised to spend... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Animal Farm by George Orwell and The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters Read the two extracts below and then answer both part a) and part b) - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
a) Compare the ways in which discovering how others live is presented in these two extracts.
Answer
In the extracts from Animal Farm and The Little Stranger, the theme of discovering how others live is examined through the characters' experiences and the authors' narrative techniques.
Firstly, the situations faced by the characters reveal stark contrasts in their awareness of their surroundings. For instance, in Animal Farm, the animals' awakening to the exploitative nature of human rule highlights their gradual realization of their oppression. This is reflected in their interactions and growing awareness of their power as a collective. In contrast, The Little Stranger presents a more subtle discovery, as characters grapple with social differences through their emotional responses and relationships.
Next, the characters’ reactions provide insight into their respective environments. The animals in Orwell's work display a union that strengthens as they learn about their rights; each moment of discovery brings them closer to rebellion. Meanwhile, the characters in Waters' narrative often react with confusion or horror when faced with uncomfortable truths about their social standings, showcasing an emotional depth absent in the direct actions of the animals.
Lastly, the authors’ use of language and techniques creates distinct effects. Orwell employs straightforward yet impactful language to convey the animals’ awakening, using vivid imagery and symbolism. Simple yet powerful sentences emphasize key moments of realization. Conversely, Waters utilizes a more complex prose style, layering descriptions with rich, emotive language that draws the reader into the characters' psychological turmoil, making their discoveries deeply felt rather than overtly stated.
Step 2
b) Explore another moment in Animal Farm where the animals make a surprising discovery.
Answer
A significant moment of surprising discovery in Animal Farm occurs when the animals learn of the pigs’ manipulation of the commandments. Initially, the commandments are meant to ensure equality and fairness among all animals. However, as the pigs gradually alter these commands to benefit themselves, the animals become increasingly bewildered.
One notable scene is when the other animals recognize that ‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others’ has replaced the original commandment. This revelation serves as a powerful shock, encapsulating the betrayal they face from their supposed leaders. The use of language here is particularly effective; the steep decline from a promise of equality to a stark inequity is both ironic and tragic.
This moment emphasizes the theme of betrayal and the consequences of blind trust, portraying the animals' horror as they confront the chilling truth of their altered reality. Their discovery shifts from a hopeful revolution to a stark understanding of their continued oppression, highlighting the cyclical nature of power and exploitation.