Revolutionary Turmoil Unfolds- The Turbulent Events of Chapter 5 in ‘Animal Farm’

What happened in chapter 5 of George Orwell’s classic novel “Animal Farm” is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the rest of the story. This chapter introduces the concept of the “Seven Commandments of Animalism,” which are meant to guide the animals in their new society. However, as the chapter progresses, it becomes apparent that the ideals of equality and freedom are slowly being eroded by the corrupting influence of power.

In this chapter, the animals, led by the clever pig Napoleon, are introduced to the first commandment: “All animals are equal.” This is a powerful statement that symbolizes the animals’ desire to break free from the oppression of man and create a utopian society. However, as the chapter unfolds, the animals begin to notice that the pigs, who are considered the “ruling class,” are not adhering to this commandment. They are treated differently and are allowed to live in greater comfort than the other animals.

This discrepancy is further highlighted when the pigs start to change the commandments to suit their own interests. The second commandment, “No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets,” is altered to “No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets unless it is sleeping in the barn with the other animals.” This subtle change allows the pigs to maintain their luxurious beds while still appearing to be equal to the other animals.

Another significant event in chapter 5 is the discovery of the windmill. The animals are excited about the prospect of building a windmill that will provide them with electricity and improve their lives. However, as the construction begins, the pigs start to take on more and more of the labor, while the other animals are forced to work longer hours. This situation further illustrates the pigs’ growing power and the animals’ diminishing influence.

Additionally, chapter 5 introduces the concept of the “lying sheep,” who are pigs that have been trained to spread propaganda and manipulate the other animals. This is a clear indication that the pigs are not only in control of the physical labor but also of the information and the minds of the animals. The lying sheep serve as a symbol of the corruption that is seeping into the hearts of the animals, as they begin to doubt their own memories and the principles they once held dear.

In conclusion, chapter 5 of “Animal Farm” is a critical moment in the novel where the ideals of equality and freedom are put to the test. The changes to the commandments, the construction of the windmill, and the introduction of the lying sheep all serve to illustrate the gradual erosion of the animals’ principles and the rise of the pigs as a new oppressive class. This chapter sets the stage for the rest of the story, where the animals’ utopian dream will ultimately be shattered by the corrupting influence of power.