What does Napoleon do in Animal Farm? This question often arises among readers of George Orwell’s classic novel, which is a satirical allegory for the Russian Revolution. Napoleon, one of the pigs who lead the animals in the rebellion against Mr. Jones, the farm’s owner, plays a significant role in the story. His actions and decisions have profound impacts on the animals’ lives and the eventual outcome of the revolution.
Napoleon’s first major action is to seize power from Snowball, the more intellectual and charismatic pig who had initially led the rebellion. Through cunning manipulation and the use of propaganda, Napoleon successfully portrays Snowball as a traitor and a threat to the farm’s stability. This power play allows Napoleon to establish himself as the supreme leader of Animal Farm.
One of Napoleon’s key strategies is to control the minds of the other animals. He employs a propaganda machine, including a slogans board and the farm’s喇叭，to disseminate his ideas and manipulate the animals’ beliefs. By doing so, he creates an illusion of unity and loyalty among the animals, while in reality, he consolidates his own power.
Another significant action by Napoleon is the implementation of the Seven Commandments, which are based on the original commandments of the rebellion. However, over time, he alters the commandments to suit his own interests. For instance, the original commandment “No animal shall wear clothes” is changed to “No animal shall wear clothes except in their sleep,” allowing Napoleon to wear clothes during the day while still maintaining the appearance of following the rules.
Napoleon’s leadership style is characterized by a disregard for the well-being of the animals. He prioritizes his own comfort and luxury, as evidenced by his acquisition of a comfortable bed and a silver teacup. This contrasts with the original ideals of the rebellion, which aimed to create a utopian society where all animals would live free from oppression.
Furthermore, Napoleon’s actions lead to the betrayal of the revolution’s core principles. He allows Mr. Jones to return to the farm, only to have him chased away again by the animals. This event highlights Napoleon’s true intentions: to maintain power and control, rather than to create a better life for the animals.
In conclusion, Napoleon’s role in Animal Farm is multifaceted and deeply troubling. He manipulates the minds of the animals, alters the commandments to suit his own interests, and betrays the original ideals of the revolution. His actions ultimately lead to the failure of the animals’ rebellion and the continuation of oppression. What does Napoleon do in Animal Farm? He becomes a symbol of tyranny and the corrupting influence of power.
