Theory question 205
Set Text: Animal FarmLiterature 3, Part B: Non-African Prose. George Orwell: Animal Farm
Either (a) Describe the character of Old Major; showing his contributions to the realization of the animals' independence.
Or (b) Describe the role of Boxer and Clover in Animal Farm
Show the model answer
(a) Old Major: old, respected prize boar; wise and visionary.
His dream and speech explain the animals' oppression by Man.
Teaches 'Beasts of England'; urges rebellion and equality.
His ideas become Animalism and the Seven Commandments; dies before the rebellion.
(b) Boxer: strong, loyal, hardworking cart-horse ('I will work harder', 'Napoleon is always right'); fights bravely; sold to the knacker when sick.
Clover: motherly mare; caring; senses the commandments are changed but cannot read well; protects weaker animals.
Both represent the loyal working class exploited by the pigs.
Choose one option; refer to events.