Animal Farm: Plot Summary (AQA GCSE English Literature): Revision Notes

Animal Farm: Plot Summary

Animal Farm starts with the animals on Mr Jones's farm rebelling against their cruel owner, inspired by Old Major, a wise old pig who dreams of a farm where animals are free and equal. After they successfully drive Mr. Jones away, the pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, take charge and create the Seven Commandments, with the promise that "All animals are equal."

However, Napoleon soon takes control by forcing Snowball off the farm. He begins to change the rules to benefit the pigs, who start to live in luxury while the other animals work harder and get less. Napoleon uses fear, lies, and his loyal dogs to keep the other animals in line.

As time goes on, the pigs become more like the humans they replaced, enjoying privileges and power. The commandments are secretly changed to suit the pigs, with the final one reading, "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." By the end, the pigs are indistinguishable from humans, showing how the original ideals of equality and freedom have been completely betrayed.