The symbolic asymmetry of power in Orwell’s Animal Farm: a critical discourse analysis

This study explores how Orwell uses symbolism in Animal Farm to narrate a powerful story, illuminate power structures, and subvert dominant ideologies. By primarily combining critical discourse analysis (CDA) with symbolic analysis (SA), this research draws on insights from theories like linguistics, sociology, politics, psychology, art, and literature. The study uses a qualitative method of textual analysis, consisting of two main tasks: the data collection involves a close reading of Animal Farm, identifying all instances of symbolism, such as objects, characters, colors, events, places, etc. The data analysis consists of five steps: description, categorization, analysis, interpretation, and discussions. The findings reveal that Orwell’s use of Symbolism—through personification, imagery, hyperbole, similes, etc.—deepens the narrative’s thematic impact. Symbolism serves to expose the contradictory power dynamics within the story, highlighting the exploitation and distortion of the powerless by the powerful. By visualizing inequality and injustice, Orwell’s symbolism subverts the prevailing ideologies of the ruling elites—the pigs as symbols of Russia’s Stalinist regime—and alerts readers to the dangers of unchecked authority. Ultimately, the study argues that literature, as a form of discourse, offers valuable insights into the management of societal power and governance. Animal Farm demonstrates the perils of totalitarianism, abuse of power, and manipulation, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against totalitarianism.