Power Play In Animal Farm: A Comprehensive CDA Examination of Power Structures

Abstract

Power is regarded as highly hazardous for it attracts the worst and corrupts the best. Power either in the form of totalitarian reign or in the smooth shape of capitalism bridges the major gap between dominance and subjugation. George Orwell's Animal Farm stands as an allegory that depicts the political revolution and its descent into tyranny. This study delves into locating the intricate power dynamics at play within the inhabitants of the farm which is the symbolic representation of the state. The lens of critical discourse analysis three-dimensional framework proposed by Norman Fairclough (1989, 1992, 1993, and 1995) is used to illuminate the mechanisms of dominance and subjugation throughout the narrative. With a brief introduction of vital political terms and proper preface for the course and illustration of the study, the research defines the motivations to undertake the specific topic. The research goes through the text of Animal Farm employing CDA to analyze Orwell's language choices, narrative framing, and symbolic representations. This study being qualitative research presents delimitations and findings to contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of power within Animal Farm. By taking insight from the 3d model of Fairclough, the study attempts at deconstructing the linguistic mechanisms employed to legitimize and maintain dominance. Discussion and analysis delve into the study of the dangers of manipulation, propaganda, and the weaponization of language in perpetuating oppressive regimes. Furthermore, the research tends to procure valuable insights into the relationship among language, power, and the human condition. The research concludes by mentioning the plausible potential applications to various fields such as political science, literature, and social psychology.