Does Snowball Come Back in Animal Farm?
George Orwell’s classic novel, Animal Farm, is a powerful allegory that explores the themes of revolution, power, and corruption. One of the most intriguing questions that arise from the story is whether Snowball, one of the main characters, returns in the novel. This article aims to delve into this question and provide a comprehensive analysis of Snowball’s fate in the context of Animal Farm.
In the beginning of the story, Snowball is depicted as a clever and charismatic pig, who plays a crucial role in the animals’ revolution against the oppressive farmer, Mr. Jones. Snowball is instrumental in formulating the Seven Commandments, which serve as the guiding principles for the new animal society. However, as the novel progresses, Snowball’s influence begins to wane, and he is eventually exiled from the farm.
The question of whether Snowball returns in Animal Farm is a matter of interpretation. Some readers argue that Snowball does come back, albeit in a symbolic or metaphorical sense. For instance, the appearance of the pigs in the windmill, which resembles a windmill Snowball had designed, can be seen as a representation of Snowball’s return. This interpretation suggests that Snowball’s ideas and ideals continue to influence the farm, even in his absence.
On the other hand, there are readers who believe that Snowball does not physically return to the farm. This perspective is supported by the fact that the pigs, especially Napoleon, take over the leadership of the farm and begin to resemble the human oppressors they had overthrown. The pigs’ betrayal of the animals’ original ideals can be seen as a testament to Snowball’s absence, as his vision for a utopian society is shattered.
Furthermore, the novel’s ending leaves readers with a sense of ambiguity regarding Snowball’s fate. The pigs, now more resembling humans than animals, are depicted as corrupt and power-hungry. This portrayal can be interpreted as a commentary on the failure of the revolution and the absence of Snowball’s leadership.
In conclusion, whether Snowball comes back in Animal Farm is a question that can be answered in various ways, depending on the reader’s interpretation. Some may argue that Snowball’s ideas and ideals return in a symbolic form, while others may believe that his absence is a crucial element in the novel’s exploration of the themes of revolution and corruption. Regardless of the interpretation, Animal Farm remains a thought-provoking and timeless allegory that continues to resonate with readers today.