Animal Farm by George Orwell a Socratic-Style Class

Animal Farm, by George Orwell, tells the story of how animals captured the Manor Farm from an incompetent, vicious farmer, changed its name to Animal Farm, and attempted to create a utopian society in which all animals were equal. Unfortunately, their desire to claim a better society would be squashed by their own kind.

It is a great satirical work by George Orwell. 

During this class we will examine how "Animal Farm" serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of Soviet totalitarianism, discussing the parallels between the characters and historical figures like Stalin and Lenin.

We will analyze the depiction of power dynamics within the farm, focusing on how the pigs' rise to power reflects the corrupting influence of absolute authority and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals.

We will discuss the use of propaganda and manipulation by the pigs, particularly through characters like Squealer, to maintain control and influence the other animals, and explore how these techniques mirror real-world political strategies.

It will be important to explore the depiction of class stratification and economic disparity on the farm, examining how the initial promise of equality gives way to a new form of inequality and exploitation.

We will identify and interpret significant symbols (e.g., the windmill, the Seven Commandments) and themes (e.g., the dangers of blind loyalty, the nature of power) to understand how they contribute to the novel’s overall message.

And, we will analyze the development of key characters, such as Napoleon, Snowball, and Boxer, and their roles in advancing the narrative’s themes and messages about leadership, loyalty, and betrayal.


This is a Socratic-style (discussion based) class. It is important that all learners participate in the weekly discussion. Every voice is valid and should be heard. If you're child is not able to do so, please let me know. 

I provide all learners the opportunity to complete assignments for a percentage grade.  


** All classes will begin on time as long as there is at least one learner in the classroom. If there are no students in the class 10 minutes after the class start time, the teacher will exit the classroom. This class cannot be taught with zero students. No recording will be available for classes with zero attendance.