Democracy in George Orwell’s Animal Farm: Challenges and Perspectives

Animal Farm is not a mere allegory; it is a political manifesto for political leaders. That attitude of Napoleon, an animal who seized power by force and was expected to be different from the “Tyrant Man’’ Mr. Jones, revealed a common problem among the newly independent nations. In many countries, efforts were made to settle some vital democratic principles and institutions. Unfortunately, naivety, greed, tribalism, nepotism, and all related vices wiped out all those initial good intentions. Today again, ousted colonial powers have changed their tactic: From political “Mr. Jones”, they have eventually become economical “Big Brothers”. Animal Farm portrays some of the major obstacles to self-determination, independence and freedom in some modern nations.

James Ahikpa graduated with a Masters Degree in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language) from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. He also earned a Masters Degree in English language and literature from the University of Abidjan. He taught English to High School students in Abidjan. He specializes in British and American literature.