Plot
What major project do the animals begin working on in chapters 5–6?
The windmill.
Which animal is known for the motto “I will work harder”?
Boxer
What theme is shown by Napoleon taking control of the farm?
Abuse of power.
What does the windmill symbolize overall?
False hope and manipulation of the working class.
"Four legs good, two legs bad"
The Sheep
Why does Napoleon abolish the Sunday meetings?
To prevent debate and opposition, especially from Snowball, and to consolidate his power.
Who uses persuasive language to justify Napoleon’s decisions?
Squealor
How do chapters 5–6 show the theme of manipulation?
Through lies about Snowball, changing rules, and Squealer’s propaganda.
What do Napoleon’s dogs symbolize?
A secret police or military force used to control others.
"Tactics, Comrades, tactics"
Squealor
What happens to Snowball during Napoleon’s rise to power?
Snowball is chased off the farm by Napoleon’s dogs.
Why does Napoleon raise the puppies away from the other animals?
To train them as guard dogs and use them for intimidation.
What theme is represented by the animals’ continued obedience despite mistreatment?
Blind loyalty / ignorance.
What do the changing commandments represent?
The manipulation of laws and truth by those in power.
"Napoleon is always right"
Boxer
How does Napoleon explain the destruction of the windmill?
He blames Snowball, claiming Snowball sabotaged it.
How does Boxer react to the pigs’ increasing control?
He remains loyal and obedient, trusting Napoleon and working harder instead of questioning authority.
How does the windmill relate to the theme of false promises?
It is used to motivate animals with hope while benefiting the pigs instead.
What does the pigs’ move into the farmhouse symbolize?
Their transformation into the same kind of oppressors they overthrew.
"No more delays comrades! There is work to be done"
Napoleon
How do the events surrounding the windmill show a shift in leadership style from Old Major’s vision?
Leadership shifts from collective decision-making to dictatorship, fear, and manipulation under Napoleon.
How does Squealer’s role differ from Napoleon’s in maintaining power?
Napoleon rules through fear and force, while Squealer controls the animals through propaganda and manipulation.
How do chapters 5–6 develop Orwell’s warning about totalitarian leadership?
They show how leaders gain control through fear, lies, and rewriting truth while claiming to act for the people.
How does the windmill’s repeated rebuilding deepen its symbolic meaning?
It represents how oppressive systems exploit workers endlessly while promising progress that never benefits them.
Who spreads the idea that Snowball was secretly working against the farm?
Squealer (on Napoleon’s behalf)