Critical Analysis of "Shooting an Elephant" In George Orwell's essay "Shooting an Elephant," the author's character develops from the pressure to make a decision and the horrifying results which follow. A potential existed for Orwell to display confidence and high morals, but this potential was destroyed when he pulled the trigger. The death of the elephant signifies the weakness of Orwell's character. Orwell is ashamed to had submitted to the pressure of the Burmans, but …
showed first 75 words of 601 total

showed last 75 words of 601 total
…must live with for submitting to the will of the Burmans. Orwell deserves the integrity he lost and the guilt he must endure from the suffering of the elephant. The decision that the author chose in "Shooting an Elephant" caused great pain and suffering to the creature, and symbolized the deline in Orwell's character. The judgement lowers the author's morals and self confidence, consequently leading the reader to perceive the author in a negative light.