More equal definitely means not equal. It's just semantics by the pigs, because they knew very well that the other animals weren't equal with them.
Thanks for the prompt reply. In fact, I'd already read your reply in the "visitor messages" list in your profile page. But, did not have the time to respond as I'd to rush to court. My understanding of what was ment by "more equal" was also the same. But, a doubt persisted because I thought the use of the expression "more equal" was not very accurate in conveying what the author wanted to, though we have nevertheless understood the message. I think "more equal" still means equal and cannot be said to mean 'unequal' or 'more than equal'. May I know your opinion on this? And, I've sent a friendship request. Please accept it. Thanks.
Sorry, I'm not used to using this message system. I answered your question like this, in case you missed it. The two are quite different. In Animal Farm, the phrase is used to justify that some animals have better standard of living than others. The premise which the farm became Animal Farm with was that all animals were equal and that was written on the wall of the barn as a reminder for all time. When it became obvious the pigs were running the farm as they wished and that they were no longer equal with other animals, the commandment was changed to the "more equal" version. That signified that some animals would be privileged over others and would no longer be equal. "First among equals" signifies no special benefit beyond speaking for, or representing, a group of equals. In a large group of equals, not everyone can speak for it, so a person or group is appointed to represent, while retaining equality with the group.
Hi! I love Orwell's writings and going by your signature, you must be a fan of Orwell too. Recently, in a petition to be filed before the court, I pleaded that, "The petitioners are to be regarded as 'first among equals'....." I was wondering, if the the quote from Orwell's Animal Farm that, "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." means the same as "first among equals". I'm unable to figure out the meaning of "more equal" in the quote from the Animal Farm. Can you help clear my doubt?
