How does the evolving narrative surrounding Snowball's role in the Battle of the Cowshed serve as a mechanism for consolidating power within Animal Farm?
Understand the Problem
The question explores how the changing story about Snowball's actions in the Battle of the Cowshed is used to strengthen Napoleon's control in Animal Farm. It asks you to consider how this manipulation of history affects the animals' unity and trust, and how it benefits Napoleon's rise to power.
Answer
The evolving narrative of Snowball's role in the Battle of the Cowshed is manipulated to consolidate Napoleon's power by discrediting Snowball and his followers.
In Animal Farm, the evolving narrative of Snowball's role in the Battle of the Cowshed is a tool used to consolidate power. Initially, Snowball is a hero. Later, Napoleon and Squealer rewrite history, casting Snowball as a traitor. This manipulation discredits Snowball and Napoleon's rivals, solidifying Napoleon's control by creating a common enemy and justifying his authoritarian rule.
Answer for screen readers
In Animal Farm, the evolving narrative of Snowball's role in the Battle of the Cowshed is a tool used to consolidate power. Initially, Snowball is a hero. Later, Napoleon and Squealer rewrite history, casting Snowball as a traitor. This manipulation discredits Snowball and Napoleon's rivals, solidifying Napoleon's control by creating a common enemy and justifying his authoritarian rule.
More Information
This mirrors the historical revisionism employed by totalitarian regimes, particularly Stalin's rewriting of Trotsky's role in the Russian Revolution.
Tips
A common mistake is to overlook the gradual nature of the manipulation. The change in narrative isn't immediate but evolves over time, making it more insidious and effective.
Sources
- Animal Farm: Snowball | Character Analysis - CliffsNotes - cliffsnotes.com
- Animal Farm Chapter VII Summary & Analysis - SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
- [PDF] Chapter Two Standards Focus Symbolism Animal Farm (book) - prep.missouri.edu
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