Download ENG3U1 - alcdsb

ENG3U1
Animal Farm – Study and Discussion Questions
Chapters One & Two:
1. What is the central message in Old Major’s speech?
2. According to Old Major’s speech, under what principles should the farm operate?
3. Explain the significance of the song, “Beasts of England”.
4. What does Snowball mean when he says to Mollie, “Those ribbons that you are devoted to are the
badge of slavery”?
5. What happens during and after the rebellion?
6. a) What notion about the basic nature of humanity is implicit in the Seven Commandments drawn
up for Animal Farm? b) In what way could these be considered a vice or problematic?
7. What do you think happened to the milk that is missing at the end of Chapter Two?
D- Consider Old Major’s words, “Man is the only creature that consumes without producing.”
What does this mean and do you agree or disagree. Explain.
D – Why do you think the other animals are so easily led by the pigs? Would you have been so
willing to follow another leader after you had freed yourself from oppression? Explain.
Chapters Three & Four:
1. Describe the flag that Snowball designs for the farm. What is the significance of the colour and
symbols on it?
2. What maxim does Snowball use to simplify the Seven Commandments? Why is this maxim a
good propaganda technique?
3. In what ways do the pigs set themselves up as elite members of Animal Farm?
4. Who is Squealer and what is his primary role?
5. How does the Battle of the Cowshed differ from the Rebellion?
D- Snowball and Boxer are decorated after the battle. Why is this significant? What theme does it
develop?
D- Why might Napoleon educate the puppies in seclusion? Predict an outcome.
Review your themes, symbols, motifs worksheet. Add any important details/notes at this time.
Chapters Five & Six:
1. Why does Mollie leave the farm? Which group might she represent in the Russian Revolution?
2. How does Napoleon overthrow Snowball?
3. How does life on the farm compare to life under Jones?
4. Boxer’s personal mottos are, “Napoleon is always right” and “I will work harder.” What does this
reveal about his character?
5. How does Napoleon use Snowball as a scapegoat when the windmill is blown down?
6. List the ways Napoleon bends the rules and commandments to benefit himself. (Themes developed?)
D- Analyze the historical role of the scapegoat and its value to a corrupt leader and/or society.
D- In your opinion, would Animal Farm be different if Snowball had assumed the leadership rather
than Napoleon?
Chapters Seven & Eight:
1. List 3-4 key examples to show how Napoleon is deceptive and manipulative in chapter seven.
2. Explain the significance of Clover’s sing “Beasts of England” after the executions.
3. What reason does Napoleon give for abolishing the song? What can we infer is the real reason for
banning the song?
4. Provide evidence/clues from Chapter 8 that shows Napoleon is becoming more and more like a
human.
D- How does the poem, “Comrade Napoleon” enhance Napoleon’s image?
Chapters Nine & Ten:
1. What are Spontaneous Demonstrations? What purpose does Napoleon give for having them?
What is their real purpose?
2. Why do you suppose Moses is allowed to return to the farm?
3. List the details of Boxer’s demise.
4. How has Napoleon become indistinguishable from Mr. Jones?
5. Describe the window scene at the end of the book when the transformation from pig to human is
complete.
6. Discuss the irony of the conclusion and the new name for Animal Farm.
D- In your opinion, is it ever possible for a society or community to reach a utopian state? If so,
describe the circumstances in which this could happen. If not, give reasons for why you think it is
impossible.
Review your themes, symbols, motifs worksheet. Add any final details/notes at this time.