Question

read the excerpt from chapter 10 of animal farm
the pigs appeared completely at ease in their chairs
the company had been enjoying a game of cards but
had broken off for the moment, evidently in order to
drink a toast. a large jug was circulating, and the mugs
were being refilled with beer. no one noticed the
wondering faces of the animals that gazed in at the
window.
what is ironic about the pigs activities in this excerpt?
they fail to notice that other animals are watching
them.
they had previously planted barley in order to make
beer.
they changed the rules to allow drinking in a limited
quantity
they prohibited alcohol when they took control of
the farm.

Explanation:

Irony occurs when there is a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. In Animal Farm, the pigs initially prohibited alcohol (as per the commandments they set). But here, they are seen drinking beer. This is a contradiction (irony) as they go against their own initial rule.

Answer:

They prohibited alcohol when they took control of the farm.