Short Answer
Orwell uses Mr. Pilkington in “Animal Farm” to represent world leaders who ignore the suffering under totalitarian regimes like Stalin’s, highlighting the dangerous complacency that allows injustices to thrive. Through this character, Orwell critiques the prioritization of order over human rights and urges a moral responsibility in governance.
Step 1: Understanding Orwell’s Allegory
George Orwell’s novel “Animal Farm” presents an allegorical tale where animals rebel against their human oppressors to create a self-governed society. Throughout the narrative, characters symbolize historical figures and political ideologies, showcasing the dynamics of power and governance. This allegorical layer reveals Orwell’s critique of real-world politics, particularly during the rise of totalitarian regimes.
Step 2: Analyzing Mr. Pilkington’s Role
Mr. Pilkington, a key character in the story, represents world leaders who turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. He embodies a complacent attitude where he admires Stalin’s regime despite its oppressive nature. Orwell uses Mr. Pilkington’s character to illustrate how international leaders can perpetuate injustice through their silence and complicity, mirroring how they were impressed by Stalin’s methods rather than advocating for the welfare of the people.
Step 3: Drawing Conclusions from the Narrative
Through Mr. Pilkington, Orwell critiques the laissez-faire mentality of political leaders who seek order and discipline at the expense of human rights. His admiration for Stalin’s approach, as noted in the text, showcases a disturbing trend where leaders prioritize stability over justice. Ultimately, this criticism reflects Orwell’s concern about moral responsibility in governance, urging readers to question authority and advocate for the dignity of all individuals.