Question of the Day 12/12/13

What is an allegory? An allegory is a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one. An allegory is a powerful way to express and idea because it gives the theme or idea a deeper meaning. It gives the reader a different outlook or perspective to the theme. It may also make it easier for the reader to understand the moral or meaning. For example, in Animal Farm, George Orwell uses the power of an allegory to talk about the Communist Russia. He writes the book about the main problems without actually talking about it directly. Personally, I believe this makes it easier for the reader to understand what is going on, or to understand what the author is trying to tell us. It brings the topic into another light. These factors give allegories their literary power.

Qualities of a Good Leader

         I do not believe that intelligence should be the primary qualification for leadership. Just because a person is smart does not mean that they are smart in the right way. For example, they may be smart, but they may use their knowledge to only help themselves and to manipulate others. Someone who does this uses their knowledge to their own benefit and to take advantage of others. A leader should also be kind and they should try to help others. They should use their knowledge to help the entire society, not just themselves. A leader should be responsible too. They should consider others' opinions. When choosing a leader for our society, we tried to use these concepts to make a good choice.

Exploratory Writing

              I believe that Squealer's reasoning is very manipulative. He twists the words to turn them into something the other animals want to hear. I don't think Napoleon really believes that the animals are equal. He seems like he enjoys having all the decision-making powers. Also, when Squealer states that Napoleon is worried the other animals might make the wrong decision, he is basically saying that the other animal's opinions are wrong. No matter what the animals want, the final decision will always be made by Napoleon. Napoleon is the one deciding if the decisions made by the animals are wrong. Most likely, they will always be considered wrong because Napoleon is always considered right. However, Squealer's reasoning sugarcoats the situation of Napoleon taking all the power by twisting the words to make it sound like Napoleon is doing this for the animals. Napoleon did not intend to help the other animals. He is only in it for himself and his power.