"Animal Farm" by George Orwell is a political allegory and satire that critiques totalitarianism, primarily focused on the events leading up to and following the Russian Revolution. Set on a farm, the story follows a group of animals who overthrow their human owner, Mr. Jones, in hopes of creating an egalitarian society where all animals are equal.

Initially led by two pigs, Napoleon and Snowball, the animals envision a new society where they work together for the common good. However, as time passes, Napoleon rises to power and begins to manipulate and exploit the other animals, using propaganda, fear, and violence to control them. The pigs gradually become indistinguishable from the humans they overthrew, indulging in luxuries and abandoning the principles of equality they once championed.

Key themes in the novel include the corrupting influence of power, the manipulation of language and truth, and the cyclical nature of history. Orwell's critique of Soviet Russia is evident throughout, as the pigs' transformation represents the betrayal of the revolution's ideals. Ultimately, the novel serves as a powerful warning about the dangers of unchecked authority and the susceptibility of people to manipulation.