Snowball Flashcards
(5 cards)
Quote: ‘Snowball was a more vivacious pig than Napoleon, quicker in speech and more inventive.’
Analysis: Orwell contrasts Snowball with Napoleon to show Snowball’s intelligence, charisma, and leadership potential. This makes his later exile even more tragic, symbolising how visionary leaders are often overthrown by those who seek power for its own sake.
Quote: ‘Snowball conjured up pictures of fantastic machines which would do their work for them while they grazed at ease.’
Analysis: Snowball represents idealism and innovation. Orwell presents him as a leader who genuinely wants to improve life on the farm, contrasting with Napoleon’s hunger for control.
Quote: ‘Do not imagine, comrades, that leadership is a pleasure!’
Analysis: This quote shows Snowball’s willingness to serve and take responsibility. Orwell uses Snowball to show the potential for fair and democratic leadership before it is crushed by authoritarianism.
Quote: ‘He was running as only a pig can run.’
Analysis: This occurs during Snowball’s expulsion. Orwell presents the violence and speed of the event to emphasise how quickly revolutionary ideals can be destroyed by tyranny.
Quote: ‘Snowball was in league with Jones.’
Analysis: After Snowball is exiled, he is scapegoated for all misfortunes. Orwell criticises how totalitarian regimes rewrite history and vilify former leaders to maintain control.
