Animal Farm: Napoleon Character Study

Questions and Answers

Who does Napoleon represent?

Stalin, the communist leader

How is Napoleon's name symbolic?

It is based on Napoleon Bonaparte, who was initially a brilliant soldier and hero but then became a tyrant.

Describe Napoleon's physical appearance.

Large, fierce-looking.

What suggests Napoleon is unique and special?

He is the only Berkshire on the farm. Signup and view all the answers

What implies Napoleon is a bully?

He is not much of a talker but has a reputation for getting his own way. Signup and view all the answers

What shows that Napoleon stands out and is elite?

He is one of the two pre-eminent pigs along with Snowball. Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the milk and what does this foretell for the development of the story?

Napoleon takes control of the milk, indicating he will abuse his power. Signup and view all the answers

How does Napoleon subtly give orders so he can have the milk to himself?

He commands Snowball to lead the way while he follows later. Signup and view all the answers

How is the milk ambiguous?

It is unclear if Napoleon had it to himself or shared it with the rest of the pigs. Signup and view all the answers

What does the passive voice do?

It creates uncertainty about the animals' awareness regarding the missing milk. Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about Napoleon not being mentioned during the Battle of the Cowshed?

His absence suggests he was hiding, portraying him as a coward. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the irony of describing the Sunday afternoon work as 'strictly voluntary.'

Animals are compelled to work or face reduced rations, making it not truly voluntary. Signup and view all the answers

If the hay and wheat weren't enough, what sacrifice were the hens expected to make?

They were to give up their eggs to be sold. Signup and view all the answers

What was Napoleon's explanation for the falling of the windmill?

He blamed Snowball, claiming he was responsible for its destruction. Signup and view all the answers

What happens at the executions?

Animals confess to being in contact with Snowball, and are killed by the dogs. Signup and view all the answers

What happened when Squealer announced that the hens must surrender their eggs?

Hens protested, but Napoleon ordered their rations stopped and nine hens died. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how the dogs attack Boxer, specifically how Boxer is blind to Napoleon.

Boxer is unsure whether to defend himself against the dog or not. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Napoleon's Representation

Napoleon symbolizes Joseph Stalin, reflecting his totalitarian leadership style in Animal Farm.

Symbolism of Name

The name "Napoleon" alludes to Napoleon Bonaparte, the French Emperor who transformed from a hero to a tyrannical figure.

Physical Description

Napoleon is described as "large" and "fierce-looking," creating an intimidating presence.

Uniqueness on the Farm

He is noted as "the only Berkshire on the farm," highlighting his distinct status among the animals.

Bullying Nature

Napoleon is characterized as a bully with "a reputation for getting his own way," suggesting dominance through intimidation.

Elite Status

Initially presented as one of the elite pigs, he is "pre-eminent among the pigs" alongside Snowball.

Milk and Power Dynamics

The incident with the milk foreshadows Napoleon's rise as a leader. He claims it for himself, hinting at future abuses of power.

Subtle Commanding

By stating "comrade Snowball will lead the way," Napoleon subtly asserts control, positioning himself as the ultimate leader.

Ambiguity of Milk Consumption

The narrative leaves the consumption of milk ambiguous, insinuating either selfishness or possible sharing among pigs.

Use of Passive Voice

The passive construction "it was noticed that the milk had disappeared" creates uncertainty about the animals’ awareness or fear.

Absence During Battle

Napoleon’s absence during the Battle of the Cowshed implies cowardice since his lack of mention suggests he hid rather than fought.

Irony of "Voluntary" Work

Describing Sunday work as "strictly voluntary" ironically masks coercion, as non-participation leads to starvation.

Hen Sacrifice

Hens are pressured to "welcome" the sacrifice of their eggs for windmill funding, creating a false sense of choice and guilt regarding their contribution.

Blame for Windmill's Fall

Napoleon scapegoats Snowball for the windmill's collapse, offering a reward for his capture, thus diverting blame and maintaining control over the animals.

Executions and Fear

Public executions create a climate of fear; confessions lead to brutal punishments, showing the oppressive reality of Napoleon's regime.

Hens' Rebellion

The hens resist the egg surrender order, resulting in severe punishments, including death, illustrating the harsh measures Napoleon employs to quash dissent.

Attack on Boxer

Boxer’s internal conflict during a dog attack reveals his blind loyalty to Napoleon, showcasing the tragic impact of propaganda and manipulation on even the strongest characters.

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Description

Explore the character of Napoleon from George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' through this comprehensive flashcard quiz. Each card examines his symbolic representation, physical traits, and the historical parallels to Stalin and Napoleon Bonaparte. Perfect for deepening your understanding of this pivotal character in the novel.