What event leads to the gradual erosion of the Seven Commandments?

The gradual erosion of the Seven Commandments is primarily attributed to the pigs’ ascension to power. As the pigs gain control and authority on the farm, they begin to manipulate the commandments to suit their purposes, altering them progressively for their personal advantage. This process reflects the overarching theme of corruption and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals present in the narrative.

The pigs, particularly Napoleon, exemplify this shift by changing the rules to justify their actions, ultimately leading to a society that resembles the oppressive regime they initially sought to overthrow. This manipulation of the commandments represents not just the loss of the original ideals of Animalism but also highlights the perils of unchecked power and the ease with which leaders can exploit their positions to maintain control and privilege.

While misinterpretation, human attacks, or the building of the windmill may have contributed to the farm's challenges, they do not directly account for the systematic and intentional alteration of the commandments by the pigs as they solidify their power.