Animal Farm

1. Animal Farm By George Orwell

2. Animal Farm • Animal Farm tells the story of farm animals who revolt against their human owner. • The animals are given human traits and abilities, such as the power to speak. • Animal Farm was written by George Orwell in 1945.

3. About the Author • Orwell was born in 1903 in a British colony in India. • He was raised in England. • As a young man, Orwell served in the Indian Imperial Police force. • His experiences led him to hate colonialism and oppression. George Orwell’s real name was Eric Blair.

4. As an imperialist police officer, Orwell witnessed the corrupting effects of power. • His beliefs were strengthened by his experiences as a soldier in the Spanish Civil War. • Although he was a Socialist, Orwell was suspicious of the rise of Communism in the Soviet Union.

5. Animal Farm Background • Orwell used his life experiences and the events of the Soviet revolution as inspiration for Animal Farm. • Before writing the book, Orwell saw a young boy whipping a horse: “It struck me that if only such animals became aware of their strength we should have no power over them, and that men exploit animals in much the same way as the rich exploit the [worker].” • Although animals are the main characters in the book. Animal Farm is related to the historical events of its time period.

6. Historical Background Research • In groups of 4, you will research the historical background of Animal Farm and create a poster to show your findings. • Visit each research station with your group and read the information to answer the questions. Each member will take a turn writing down your answers to the questions. You will have 5 minutes at each station. • After you are finished, use the information you have gathered to create a poster. Include visuals!