Was Snowball Evil in Animal Farm?

Many readers of George Orwell's classic novel Animal Farm often wonder about the character of Snowball, questioning whether he was truly evil or just misguided. This article explores the complexity of Snowball's character and examines his actions and motivations, shedding light on the nature of leadership and morality in the allegorical story.

Character Analysis

Snowball is presented as the kind-hearted and idealistic pig who cares deeply about the well-being of the animals on Manor Farm. Compared to Napoleon and Squealer, Snowball is often viewed as the more compassionate leader. However, it would be inaccurate to label him as perfectly good. While he genuinely aspires to improve the lives of the animals through various initiatives, his methods and intentions, even when well-meaning, do not ensure that they are flawless.

Complexity of Evil and Ideals

The concept of evil in the novel is not as straightforward as it might seem. The term 'evil' can be indicative of human behavior and the intricate motives behind actions. Snowball's character is inherently flawed, and the narrative of Animal Farm challenges the binary notion of good and evil. His dream to modernize the farm through the use of electricity and his commitment to further animalism showcase an idealistic vision that is not without its dark aspects.

Despite his idealism, the possibility of Snowball falling into corruption cannot be entirely dismissed. If he had not been exiled, he might have transformed into a manipulative and authoritarian leader, similar to Napoleon. The uncertainty in his character highlights the frailty of even the best intentions when unchecked by ethical guidelines.

Strategy and Leadership

Snowball's strategic genius is evident in his leadership and initiatives. His military strategy during the Battle of the Cowshed, as described in Chapter 4, demonstrates his tactical brilliance and his deep care for the animals' interests. He is portrayed as the most intelligent and patriotic of the pigs, which contrasts sharply with Napoleon's more selfish and opportunistic nature.

Through his efforts to educate his comrades, Snowball shows a vision of leadership that is distinct from Napoleon's. By arming the animals with knowledge and a sense of community, Snowball is setting the stage for a brighter future. In stark contrast, Napoleon's approach to leadership involves deception and manipulation, ultimately leading to the exploitation of the animals' ignorance.

Accusations and Truth

The accusations against Snowball, particularly those launched by Napoleon and his supporters, are mostly false. Even Boxer, despite his slow memory, recalls Snowball's bravery during the battle against Jones and his men. This fact underscores the moral ambiguity in the story and the lengths to which Napoleon will go to erase memory and justify his actions.

It is crucial to note that while Snowball may have been somewhat ambitious and idealistic, he never intended to harm the animals. He worked tirelessly for their betterment, albeit with a flawed vision that was later distorted by Napoleon for his own gain. The understanding of history is crucial here; Napoleon's manipulation of events is evident in his later revelations about Snowball's alleged betrayal and assistance to the humans.

In conclusion, Snowball is not evil; he is a multifaceted character whose intentions, while often misguided, are rooted in genuine goodwill. The essence of Animal Farm lies in the exploration of these complexities, urging readers to question the nature of power and the human condition.