Animal Farm Essay, Research Paper
The Russian Revolution is an example that absolute power often corrupts
society. In the novel Animal Farm, author George Orwell shows through
Boxer’s faithfulness to Napoleon that absolute power can control one’s
mind.
Boxer adopted two phrases that expressed his loyalty and
faithfulness to Napoleon. Boxer’s devotion began when Napoleon became
leader. Immediately after, Napoleon ended the Sunday debates and
decided to start the construction of the windmill. Numerous animals
disagreed with this notion and the argument could not be resolved. Boxer
voiced his opinion by stating that “If Comrade Napoleon says it, it must
be right.” This moment is when he adopted his slogan that “Napoleon is
always right,” and also stated his more recent motto “I will work harder.”
Boxer’s commitment to Napoleon was fully expressed at this point.
Later, the controversy about whether or not Snowball was Mr.
Jones’ ally also reinforced Boxer’s loyalty to Napoleon. Squealer
described the whole theory on Snowball’s dishonesty “but Boxer was still
a little uneasy,” with the explanation. He had his doubts as to whether it
was possible for S
Squealer exclaimed that this revelation came directly from Napoleon
himself. As a result, Boxer said that it was now a different story and
announced that whatever Napoleon said was always accurate. Boxer’s
suspicion was disregarded summarily because of his overwhelming
devotion to Comrade Napoleon.
Clover warned Boxer not to overwork himself because of his
overwhelming allegiance to Napoleon. Many believed that “Nothing could
have been achieved without Boxer, whose strengths seemed equal to all
of the rest of the animals put together.” The animals, especially Clover,
were concerned that these strenuous jobs weren’t good for him. Boxer
obviously wouldn’t listen to Clover because he always stayed true to his
two mottoes. Boxer knew that these maxims helped resolve his conflicts.
Boxer even rejected his close friend Clover’s advice so he could remain a
contributing comrade of Napoleon.
This showed that absolute power can ultimately alter one’s own
opinion, which can have disasterous consequences. Boxer’s blind
dedication often controlled his mind and directed his actions in
important situations.