‘Animal Farm’ is deemed a classic in many circles and quite rightly so – George Orwell’s satirical metaphor warning of the dangers of communism is as relevant now as it was when he wrote it during the ascent of Soviet Russia during the Second World War.

Images VIA

The book has never been out of print since it was first published in 1944, but as is the case with most novels that are reprinted, the artwork and presentation of the text has changed multiple times since its first edition. Many feel that the artwork of Ralph Steadman – released in 1994 to make the book’s 50th anniversary  – is the definitive illustrative version of the characters depicted in ‘Animal Farm’ as they’re suitably grotesque and scratchy, perfectly rendering the every day horror portrayed in the book:

Pretty on point right? Would be great to track down a copy of one of those editions, although I suspect they’ll be fairly pricey. At least we still have access to these pictures though.

For more classic illustrations, check out these images depicting the ugly side of society from Spanish artist Luis Quiles. Telling.