Khan 1 Yusuf Khan Anna Grace Freebersyser Introduction to Literature and Composition 5 December 2024 Throughout history, we can observe that one's true motives are revealed once they are exposed to power. One great example of this is found in George Orwell's famous novel, Animal Farm, through the two characters Napoleon and Snowball. The search for equality and progress is a key topic in George Orwell's book, however, it eventually suffers the effects of power. Napoleon and Snowball embody different approaches to leadership that show how the desire for power alone can damage good intentions. This emphasizes how fragile revolutionary ideas are when they face authoritarian rule. Through Snowball and Napoleon, Orwell illustrates how the ideals of equality and advancement can be manipulated and corrupted by those who seek power for themselves. While Snowball engages directly with the animals to promote progress, Napoleon maintains distance and rules through others and force. Snowball is dedicated to educating and empowering all animals: “Several nights a week, after Mr. Jones was asleep, they held secret meetings in the barn and expounded the principles of Animalism to the others” (Orwell, ch. 2). This shows how Snowball personally works to educate and involve all animals, and as a result, brings a sense of community and collective responsibility for the farm's success. On the other hand, Napoleon avoids direct interaction with other animals: “All orders were now issued through Squealer or one of the other pigs... Napoleon himself was not seen in public as often as once in a fortnight” (ch. 8). This demonstrates how he separates himself from most animals and Khan 2 rules through others, hence creating a barrier between his authority and the general animal population. The difference between their leadership styles is emphasized more through Snowball's focus on collective improvement compared to Napoleon's use of force and intimidation. Snowball is a leader focused on technological and social improvement: “The whole farm was deeply divided on the subject of the windmill. Snowball did not deny that to build it would be a difficult business... but he maintained that it could all be done in a year” (ch. 5). Snowball promoted the windmill project as a symbol of progress and innovation, explaining to the animals how it could lighten their workload and improve their quality of life. This shows his commitment to technological advancement for everyone’s benefit, and further builds on his traits of committing to shared goals. Meanwhile, Napoleon is a brutal leader who uses fear and violence to control the farm: “At this there was a terrible baying sound outside, and nine enormous dogs wearing brass-studded collars came bounding into the barn. They dashed straight for Snowball” (ch. 5). This event occurs during an important moment in the meetings, as Napoleon wants to eliminate Snowball and take control of the farm. It reveals how Napoleon uses violence and intimidation to maintain control, undermining any collaborative efforts and instilling fear in the animal’s hearts. One of the biggest differences in their approaches to power is ultimately shown through Snowball's democratic practices versus Napoleon's suppression of animal rights. Snowball believes in open dialogue and collective participation: “At the Meetings Snowball often won over the majority by his brilliant speeches” (ch. 5). Though the meetings gave animals a chance to listen and respond, Snowball's speeches largely overshadowed any actual discussion. This shows his belief in collective decision-making and inclusivity, even if the execution was not Khan 3 entirely balanced. In contrast, Napoleon eliminates democratic processes to keep his personal power: “He announced that from now on the Sunday-morning Meetings would come to an end. They were unnecessary, he said, and wasted time. In future all questions relating to the working of the farm would be settled by a special committee of pigs, presided over by himself” (ch. 5). This demonstrates how he destroys democracy and puts all power in his own hands, suppressing any form of protesting and strengthening his dominance over the farm. In conclusion, George Orwell’s Animal Farm effectively portrays how the pursuit of equality and progress can be undermined by those who crave control. While Snowball’s approach highlights the potential for collaboration and unity, Napoleon’s actions expose the destructive consequences of power when it is used to manipulate and oppress. Through these characters, Orwell critiques the fragility of ideals when they are tested by ambition and authority. Khan 4 Work Cited Orwell, George. Animal Farm. Collins Classics, 2021.
