Leadership Depicted In George Orwell's Animal Farm

In the novel, ‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell, the leadership of Napoleon causes varied reactions among the group. The responses from each of the animals within the novel, reflect the groups in society and proves that all an individual cares about is themselves and their wellbeing. Despite any alliances they appear to make, essentially, they are each motivated by their own existence. This is explicitly demonstrated through three groups, those who benefit, those who comply and those who oppose.

Selfishness and greed is demonstrated within the novel heavily through the pigs who only agree to the situation for their benefit. In chapter 3 the pigs decide that they are to have the best food of the farm to achieve their potential. This is one of many examples in the novel
Some animals within the novel did oppose the situation however remained silent for their own safety. The hens first began to dislike Napoleons leadership in Chapter 7 when he insisted they sell eggs in order to pay for food. They refused and as a result, Napoleon ended up starving nine hens to death. This shocked the others and although they were not compliant in the situation they were silent from then on. This was in their best interests to avoid punishment or in the extreme case in animal farm, death.

Animal farm provides a symbolic representation of the complexities within society today. Napoleon as ruler of the farm had implications for all of the animals and caused varied responses among members of the group. Although leadership is expressed as being motivated for the good of all, ultimately individuals are driven by their own happiness and welfare. Whether it be for their own benefit, to agree with the majority or to avoid death, the priority for each animal is their own