As depicted in George Orwell’s classic novella “Animal Farm,” “Beasts of England” is more than just a song; it is a symphony of revolt. It captures the animals’ vision of an idealized world free from human domination and served as a hymn that inspired them to action. Orwell dives deeply into the psychology of oppressed people and their fervent longing for liberation and equality in the song’s words. The importance, development, and final eradication of the “Beasts of England” in the allegorical story are all explored in this article.
Beginnings with Symbolism
Old Major delivers “Beasts of England” to the creatures as a hymn of defiance and hope. It serves as a call to action and a vision of a day where “tyrant Man” has no power and all animals are treated equally and with freedom. The song swiftly turns into an oral manifesto against their oppressors and a symbol of their common ambitions.
Mobilization and Unity
“Beasts of England” becomes the animals’ battle cry as they band together to defeat Mr. Jones. It is sung at gatherings, during work, and in celebrations of group achievement. The song fosters a feeling of solidarity and fraternity among the different group of animals by acting as a regular reminder of their common goal.
The song’s function changes after the insurrection, becoming propaganda. It changes from being a sign of freedom and optimism to becoming a weapon used by the pigs to consolidate their dominance. Even when the real principles of the revolution start to crumble under Napoleon’s rule, it serves as a reminder of their revolutionary fervor.
Suppression and Replacement
“Beasts of England” is judged harmful and useless as Napoleon’s authority grows more authoritarian. It is replaced with a new hymn that exalts Napoleon and places more emphasis on farm loyalty than on the more general principles of animal equality. The last sliver of original revolutionary ideas has been lost with the outlawing of “Beasts of England.”
Allegorical Implications
Orwell’s choice of the song alludes to actual revolutions, when the tyrannies they meant to remove often replace the founding ideals. “Beasts of England” represents the unadulterated, untainted longing for independence. Its repression represents the revolution’s betrayal and the emergence of a brand-new oppressive system.
Conclusion
In “Animal Farm,” “Beasts of England” serves as a moving illustration of how revolutions cycle back on themselves. The song charts the evolution of the Animalist movement, echoing the larger themes of power, corruption, and betrayal from its inception as a symbol of optimism to its ultimate repression. Through this simple but very moving song, Orwell makes a deep observation on the frailty of values in the face of political forces. “Beasts of England” continues to be a tribute to the tenacity of revolt while also demonstrating how easily revolutionary fervour can be twisted and put down.
References
- G. Orwell (1945). Farm Animals.
- Howe, I. (1982). Novel and politics.
- Lee, R. A. (1977). Animal Farm by George Orwell.
- J. Rodden (1989). The Making and Claiming of “St. George” Orwell: The Politics of Literary Reputation.
