Animal Farm by George Orwell: a Story Showing That Absolute Power Corrupts a Society

Animal Farm

The Russian Revolution is an example that absolute power often corrupts society. In the novel Animal Farm, author George Orwell shows through
Boxer’s faithfulness to Napoleon that absolute power can control one’s mind. Boxer adopted two phrases that expressed his loyalty and faithfulness to Napoleon. Boxer’s devotion began when Napoleon became leader. Immediately after, Napoleon ended the Sunday debates and decided to start the construction of the windmill. Numerous animals disagreed with this notion and the argument could not be resolved. Boxer voiced his opinion by stating that “If Comrade Napoleon says it, it must be right.” This moment is when he adopted his slogan that “Napoleon is always right,” and also stated his more recent motto “I will work harder.”
Boxer’s commitment to Napoleon was fully expressed at this point.

Later, the controversy about whether or not Snowball was Mr.
Jones’ ally also reinforced Boxer’s loyalty to Napoleon. Squealer described the whole theory on Snowball’s dishonesty “but Boxer was still a little uneasy,” with the explanation. He had his doubts as to whether it was possible for Snowball to have been a traitor the entire time. Then,
Squealer exclaimed that this revelation came directly from Napoleon himself. As a result, Boxer said that it was now a different story and announced that whatever Napoleon said was always accurate. Boxer’s suspicion was disregarded summarily because of his overwhelming devotion to Comrade Napoleon.

Clover warned Boxer not to overwork himself because of his overwhelming allegiance to Napoleon. Many believed that “Nothing could have been achieved without Boxer, whose strengths seemed equal to all of the rest of the animals put together.” The animals, especially Clover, were concerned that these strenuous jobs weren’t good for him. Boxer obviously wouldn’t listen to Clover because he always stayed true to his two mottoes. Boxer knew that these maxims helped resolve his conflicts.
Boxer even rejected his close friend Clover’s advice so he could remain a contributing comrade of Napoleon.

This showed that absolute power can ultimately alter one’s own opinion, which can have disasterous consequences. Boxer’s blind dedication often controlled his mind and directed his actions in important situations.