Animal Farm by George Orwell Allegorical Symbolism Behind Supporting Characters

Orwell’s Symbolism After discussing the primary symbolism in the novel, we defined a focus for our reading: try to identify other places where Orwell uses allegorical symbolism based on your knowledge of the Russian Revolution.

Who does Boxer represent? The name “Boxer” is cleverly used by Orwell to evoke ideas of the Boxer Rebellion in China in the early 20th century. This rebellion signaled the beginning of Communism in Red China. Boxer represents lower class proletariat that were drawn to Stalin, because they thought they would most benefit from his rule.

What do the pigs represent? Orwell uses the pigs to surround and support Napoleon. They symbolize the Communist party loyalists and friends of Stalin. They perhaps symbolize the Duma, as well, which is the Russian Parliament.

What does Mollie represent? Mollie is one of the animals most opposed to the new government under Napoleon. She is not interested in politics, but rather simply satisfying her own superficial desires. She represents citizens who are resistant to change and are only interested in maintaining the status quo.

What does Benjamin represent? Old Benjamin does not change since the rebellion. He never gets too high or too low, never becoming too excited or too disappointed about anything that has passed. He represents generally someone who never totally embraces revolution, and are so cynical that they no longer look to leaders for help. He does not fall for the propaganda of Napoleon, but does not have the charisma to teach other citizens about this.

The Farm and the Windmill The farm stands for the Kremlin. In the early days of the USSR there were sightseeing tours through the Kremlin. Later it became the residence of Stalin. The Windmill stands for Russian industry, the culmination of a five-year-plan executed by the working class. Its destruction represents the eventual failure of the five-year plan.

Neighboring Farms and Farmers Foxwood Farm represents England. Pinchfield Farm represents Germany. Fredericks represents Hitler. Stalin has friendly dealings with Hitler, and secretly arranges for trade. Stalin eventually turns his back on Hitler.

Other Characters Are there other animals/characters in the novel that you feel reflect the history of the Russian Revolution or its aftermath?