What does the gradual change in the commandments signify?

The gradual change in the commandments signifies a shift from equality to oppression. In "Animal Farm," the commandments represent the fundamental principles of Animalism, which initially promote equality among all animals. However, as the pigs gain more power, they begin to alter these commandments to justify their privileges and control over the other animals. This change illustrates how the original ideals of the revolution are corrupted, leading to a society where some animals (the pigs) become more equal than others, ultimately establishing a regime that mirrors the oppression they initially sought to overthrow.

The other choices do not capture this dynamic as effectively. For example, while animal unity may seem to strengthen in certain moments, the changing commandments reveal that the unity is fragile and based on manipulation rather than true equality. The expansion of opportunities and consolidation of resources do not address the fundamental shift in the power dynamics that the alteration of the commandments signifies, which is primarily about the erosion of equality in favor of an oppressive hierarchy.