What is the basic conflict in

In George Orwell's Animal Farm, the basic conflict lies in the struggle for power and the pursuit of equality among the animal inhabitants of Manor Farm. After overthrowing their human owner, Mr. Jones, the animals are inspired by the principles of Old Major, who preaches equality, justice, and cooperation.

However, as the story progresses, tensions arise when a select group of pigs begins to manipulate and exploit their fellow animals. The conflict intensifies when the pigs, led by the cunning and authoritarian boar Napoleon, start modifying the Seven Commandments—the guiding principles of the farm—to serve their own interests.

Napoleon and his fellow pigs gradually assume leadership roles and establish a hierarchical system that puts them above the other animals. This leads to a deep divide within the animal community, as Napoleon and his henchmen enjoy privileges and luxuries while the rest of the animals toil for the farm's upkeep.

The conflict revolves around the pigs' pursuit of power and the other animals' struggle to maintain the ideals of their initial rebellion. Ultimately, Animal Farm's exploration of the challenges in fostering true equality becomes a critique of totalitarian societies and the corruption of seemingly noble ideologies.