Did Snowball Die in Animal Farm? Exploring the Fate and Symbolism of a Revolutionary Pig

Did Snowball Die in Animal Farm? Exploring the Fate and Symbolism of a Revolutionary Pig

George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a timeless allegory that delves into the complexities of power, revolution, and betrayal. Among its many memorable characters, Snowball stands out as a symbol of idealism and intellectual leadership. However, his fate remains one of the most debated aspects of the novel. Did Snowball die in Animal Farm? While the text does not explicitly confirm his death, his disappearance and the subsequent propaganda against him suggest a grim end. This article explores Snowball’s role, his symbolic significance, and the implications of his fate within the broader context of the story.


Snowball’s Role in the Revolution

Snowball is introduced as one of the primary leaders of the animal rebellion, alongside Napoleon. He is portrayed as an intelligent, passionate, and visionary pig who genuinely believes in the principles of Animalism. Snowball is instrumental in organizing the animals, drafting the Seven Commandments, and planning the defense of the farm during the Battle of the Cowshed. His commitment to education and innovation, such as his plans for a windmill, highlights his dedication to improving the lives of all animals.

However, Snowball’s idealism and progressive ideas make him a threat to Napoleon’s authoritarian ambitions. The rivalry between the two pigs escalates, culminating in Snowball’s expulsion from the farm. This event marks a turning point in the story, as Napoleon consolidates power and begins to rewrite history to suit his narrative.


The Ambiguity of Snowball’s Fate

After his expulsion, Snowball’s fate becomes a subject of speculation. The novel does not provide a definitive answer to whether he died or simply fled. However, several clues suggest that Snowball met a tragic end. Napoleon’s regime spreads propaganda accusing Snowball of collaborating with humans and sabotaging the farm. These accusations serve to vilify Snowball and justify the increasing oppression of the animals.

The most telling evidence of Snowball’s likely demise is the violent purges carried out by Napoleon’s dogs. Animals who are suspected of sympathizing with Snowball are executed, and his name becomes synonymous with treachery. Given the regime’s brutality, it is plausible that Snowball was hunted down and killed to eliminate any threat to Napoleon’s rule.


Snowball as a Symbol of Betrayed Idealism

Snowball’s character represents the intellectual and idealistic leaders of revolutions who are often sidelined or eliminated by more ruthless figures. His expulsion and subsequent vilification mirror the fate of many real-life revolutionaries, such as Leon Trotsky in the Russian Revolution. Trotsky, like Snowball, was exiled and later assassinated by Stalin’s agents, highlighting the tragic pattern of betrayal within revolutionary movements.

Snowball’s fate also underscores the theme of corruption in Animal Farm. His vision of a fair and equal society is replaced by Napoleon’s dictatorship, demonstrating how noble ideals can be subverted by greed and ambition. The animals’ inability to remember Snowball’s contributions reflects the manipulation of history and memory by those in power.


The Windmill: A Legacy of Snowball’s Vision

One of Snowball’s most significant contributions is his plan for a windmill, which symbolizes progress and self-sufficiency. Although Napoleon initially dismisses the idea, he later adopts it as his own, claiming it was his idea all along. The windmill becomes a tool for propaganda, with Napoleon using it to justify the animals’ hardships and sacrifices.

The windmill’s repeated destruction and reconstruction mirror the cyclical nature of oppression and exploitation. Snowball’s original vision is corrupted, much like the principles of Animalism, but his legacy endures in the animals’ collective memory, even if they are too afraid to acknowledge it.


Conclusion: The Tragic Fate of a Revolutionary

While Animal Farm does not explicitly state that Snowball died, the circumstances surrounding his expulsion and the regime’s propaganda strongly suggest that he met a violent end. Snowball’s fate serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge authoritarian rule and the fragility of revolutionary ideals. His character remains a powerful symbol of betrayed idealism and the tragic cost of power struggles within movements for change.


  1. What role did Snowball play in the Battle of the Cowshed?
    Snowball was a key strategist and leader during the Battle of the Cowshed, demonstrating his bravery and tactical skills.

  2. How does Snowball’s expulsion reflect real-world historical events?
    Snowball’s expulsion mirrors the fate of figures like Leon Trotsky, who were exiled and later eliminated by rival leaders in revolutionary movements.

  3. Why did Napoleon oppose Snowball’s windmill plan?
    Napoleon opposed the windmill plan initially to undermine Snowball’s influence, but he later adopted it to consolidate his own power.

  4. What does Snowball’s fate reveal about the nature of power in Animal Farm?
    Snowball’s fate highlights how power can corrupt and how those who challenge authoritarian rule are often silenced or eliminated.

  5. How does Snowball’s character contribute to the theme of betrayal in the novel?
    Snowball’s betrayal by Napoleon and the other animals underscores the theme of how revolutionary ideals can be subverted by greed and ambition.