Chapter 9

The animals begin to think more and more about the generous retirement plans that have been part of the ideology of the early revolution as it has now been a few years since the revolution.

Life is hard as rations have been ‘readjusted’ again, except for the pigs, of course, who are now also allowed to wear green ribbons on Sundays and drink beer daily.

To stop the animals complaining, Squealer continually recites memories of the old days under Mr Jones. However, each story is continually adapted and the animals just accept what is said and blame their own memory, except Benjamin whose memory is as clear as day but just keeps quiet out of fear of the consequences if he speaks out.

‘Animal Farm’ is now declared a Republic. As the only candidate, Napoleon is ‘unanimously’ elected President.  Napoleon is an autocrat, arguably treating the animals worse than Jones.

There are now more pigs to feed as Napoleon had 31 piglets who are discouraged from associating with other animals on the farm, suggesting they are ‘more equal’ than the other animals, thus reinforcing the theme of elitism.

Boxer falls ill after overworking on the windmill and Napoleon promises to send him to a hospital. The theme of deception is evident as he is sent to the ‘Knacker’s Yard’ and presumably will end up as glue.

Squealer eventually convinces the majority of the animals that they are mistaken.

The pigs hold a banquet in honour of Boxer, in which they are only guests, again reinforcing the theme of elitism.