Does Snowball Die in Animal Farm?
George Orwell’s classic novel, Animal Farm, is a powerful allegory that explores the themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for freedom. One of the most intriguing questions that arise from this novel is whether Snowball, one of the main characters, ultimately meets his demise. This article aims to delve into this question and provide an analysis of Snowball’s fate in the story.
In the beginning of Animal Farm, Snowball is portrayed as a charismatic and intelligent pig, who plays a significant role in the rebellion against the oppressive Mr. Jones. He is the architect of the revolution and the creator of the Seven Commandments that guide the animals in their new society. However, as the story progresses, Snowball’s character takes a darker turn, and it becomes evident that he is not the ideal leader that the animals had hoped for.
Is Snowball’s Death a Pre-Planned Plot by Napoleon?
One of the most debated aspects of Snowball’s fate is whether his death is a pre-planned plot by Napoleon, the other main pig and eventual leader of the farm. In the novel, it is evident that Napoleon is envious of Snowball’s intelligence and popularity among the animals. As the power struggle intensifies, Napoleon starts to eliminate Snowball’s influence on the farm.
The first indication of Napoleon’s cunning plan comes when he sends Snowball away from the farm to fetch more supplies. While Snowball is away, Napoleon spreads false rumors about him, portraying him as a traitor and a threat to the farm’s stability. Upon Snowball’s return, Napoleon has him chased away by the dogs, effectively banishing him from the farm.
Is Snowball’s Death an Allegory for the Soviet Union’s Betrayal of its Ideals?
Snowball’s death can also be seen as an allegory for the Soviet Union’s betrayal of its revolutionary ideals. In the novel, Snowball represents the early, idealistic phase of the revolution, where the animals strive for a society based on equality and justice. However, as the power dynamics shift, Snowball’s ideals are overshadowed by Napoleon’s more authoritarian rule.
Similarly, the Soviet Union, which started as a revolutionary movement for equality and freedom, eventually succumbed to the corrupting influence of power. The death of Snowball symbolizes the loss of the initial revolutionary spirit and the rise of an oppressive regime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether Snowball dies in Animal Farm is not a simple yes or no answer. His death can be interpreted as a result of Napoleon’s cunning plan, an allegory for the Soviet Union’s betrayal of its ideals, or a representation of the inevitable corruption that comes with power. Regardless of the interpretation, Snowball’s demise serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idealism and the struggle for power in any society.
