Orwell draws parallels between Mr…

English Questions

How does Orwell’s characterization of Mr. Pilkington support his purpose? A. Orwell draws parallels between Mr. Pilkington and the other farmers in town to illustrate how dictatorial practices can spread. B. Orwell uses Mr. Pilkington to symbolize a new understanding between humans and animals.

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-by-Step Solution

Orwell draws parallels between Mr. Pilkington and leaders of countries who overlooked Stalin’s poor treatment of his people.

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.

Related Concepts

Allegory

A narrative technique in which characters and events symbolize real-world political figures and ideologies, used to critique societal issues

Complacency

A state in which individuals or leaders overlook or ignore injustices and suffering around them, often due to a sense of comfort or self-interest

Laissez-faire

An economic and political philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in the affairs of individuals and the economy, which can lead to prioritizing order over justice in governance.

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