In Chapter 8 of Animal Farm, the narrative continues to explore the deepening corruption of the pigs and the deterioration of the original ideals of the rebellion. The chapter opens with the animals facing the harsh realities of a tough winter, leading to food shortages and increased labor. The struggle for survival is evident, as they work tirelessly to maintain the farm while receiving little in return.

Napoleon, the pig who now holds absolute power, becomes increasingly tyrannical. His regime employs fear and propaganda as tools of control. The commandments of Animalism, initially established to ensure equality among all animals, are systematically altered to favor the ruling pigs. Squealer, acting as Napoleon's mouthpiece, manipulates the truth and uses misinformation to convince the other animals that they are better off than they were under Mr. Jones, despite the evident suffering.

One significant alteration occurs with the commandment that states, 'No animal shall kill any other animal.' After the execution of several animals who confess to treason, the commandment is modified to include the phrase, 'without cause.' This change reflects the pigs’ willingness to justify their brutal actions and maintain their dominance through fear. The executions serve as a chilling reminder of the consequences of dissent, and the animals are left confused and terrified.

Amidst these events, the pigs indulge in luxuries that starkly contrast with the struggles of the other animals. They engage in trade with humans, which was initially forbidden, and begin to walk on two legs, further blurring the lines between the oppressors they overthrew and themselves. The pigs even begin to dress like humans, adopting similar behaviors and customs, which symbolizes their complete betrayal of the revolutionary ideals.

As the chapter progresses, the animals’ faith in the leadership continues to wane, yet they are still manipulated into believing that their situation is improving. Boxer, the loyal draft horse who represents the working class, remains devoted to Napoleon, despite the growing evidence of corruption around him. His personal motto, 'I will work harder,' epitomizes the blind loyalty and hard work of the proletariat, which ultimately leads to his demise.

The chapter concludes with a poignant moment where the animals gather to read the commandments, only to find that the original tenets have been reduced to a single, chilling maxim: 'All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.' This stark alteration encapsulates the complete betrayal of the revolution’s ideals, as the pigs have now fully embraced the oppressive behaviors they once opposed. The animals are left disillusioned, yet they struggle to reconcile the reality of their situation with the hope that once inspired their rebellion.

Overall, Chapter 8 serves as a powerful commentary on the corrupting influence of power and the ease with which revolutionary ideals can be subverted, illustrating Orwell's critique of totalitarian regimes and the fragility of freedom.