Lessons from Animal Farm

We find many lessons throughout the story of Animal Farm. I will introduce two of them.

First, we should not overwork. In the story, Boxer is a hard worker; he “was as strong as any two ordinary horses put together” (3). Even after Snowball’s expulsion, Boxer believes Napoleon’s words, “in addition to his private motto of ‘I will work harder’” (46). He always works much more than others on a voluntary basis. His friends tell him to take a rest, but he won't listen. However, he falls and is taken to the knackers, not to the hospital. Taking a break is important during working. It is like karoshi in Japan, isn't it? 

Second, it is necessary to have knowledge and ability which enable you to distinguish right from wrong and to express your opinions. Not all animals have literacy, so it makes Napoleon and his supports easier to change the Seven Commandment without them recognizing. The animals might be able to criticize soon if all of them could read. Even though some animals protest, the sheep spoils by “bleating of ‘Four legs good, two legs bad’” (72). It seems to be a symbol of those who express nothing and don’t kick against the pricks.