In Chapter One of Animal Farm, Major gives a speech to the other animals on Manor Farm. As Major states, he is coming to the end of his life and he wishes to pass on some pearls of wisdom before it is too late. In essence, this speech has five main points:
Firstly, that the lives of animals are "miserable, laborious, and short." In other words, the animals of England are bred for the purpose of work and, as a result, do not experience any "leisure" or pleasure during their short lives.
Secondly, that man is the source of all suffering in the animal world. Man steals the produce of the animals and is the "only creature that consumes without producing." In other words, man has created an unequal division between himself and animals: he profits from animals but only gives them back enough to survive.
Thirdly, that "no animal escapes the cruel knife." Once an animal has outlived its usefulness, man will kill it. As Major says, when the dogs grow "old and toothless," for example, the farmer will tie a brick around their necks and drown them in the nearest pond.
Fourthly, that rebellion against man is the only way to ensure that animals have a better life. Major does not know when this rebellion will come, but he believes that it is inevitable; that "sooner or later justice will be done."
Finally, that "man serves the interest of no creature but himself." According to Major, man cannot be trusted and that the destruction of man is the only way to improve the lives of animals.
Major's rousing speech causes a "tremendous uproar" in the barn. He has succeeded in inspiring the animals to rise up against Mr. Jones and to accept the view that "whatever goes on two legs is the enemy." But, this rebellion will have important consequences on the fate of Manor Farm and all who dwell inside it.
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