What is the relationship between Snowball and Napoleon?

Both Snowball and Napoleon are leaders. They see leadership in each other. Napoleon sees Snowball's loyalty to the animals as a threat to his dictatorship. While Snowball works for the good of the farm, Napoleon works only for his own interests.

In George Orwell's "Animal Farm," the relationship between Snowball and Napoleon is a complex and evolving one. At the beginning of the story, they are comrades and leaders of the animal rebellion against the oppressive human farmer, Mr. Jones. However, their relationship takes a significant turn as the story progresses:

1. Comrades in the Rebellion:
Initially, Snowball and Napoleon are united in their shared vision for Animalism, the idea that all animals are equal and should live free from human oppression. They collaborate in the planning and execution of the rebellion against Mr. Jones, which results in the animals taking control of the farm.

2. Leadership Roles:
After the rebellion's success, Snowball and Napoleon emerge as the farm's leaders. Snowball is known for his eloquence and ability to articulate the principles of Animalism. He takes the lead in planning the construction of the windmill, which is intended to improve the animals' lives.
Napoleon, on the other hand, is more reticent but proves to be an effective organizer and strategist. He takes on leadership roles, particularly in the area of defense and security.

3. Emerging Conflict:
Despite their initial collaboration, tensions begin to arise between Snowball and Napoleon. They have differing ideas about the windmill, with Snowball advocating for its construction to improve the animals' well-being, while Napoleon is skeptical and focuses on building the animals' military strength.
These differences in vision and leadership style lead to ideological conflicts.

4. Expulsion of Snowball:
The climax of their conflict occurs when Napoleon uses a pack of attack dogs to expel Snowball from the farm. This violent act demonstrates Napoleon's determination to consolidate his power and eliminate any opposition.
Snowball is driven off the farm, and Napoleon takes full control, ultimately betraying the principles of Animalism and aligning himself with humans.

In summary, the relationship between Snowball and Napoleon in "Animal Farm" begins as a partnership founded on shared ideals of animal equality and rebellion against human tyranny. However, it deteriorates into a power struggle, with Napoleon ultimately using force to eliminate Snowball and assert his dominance. This transformation highlights the novel's central theme of the corruption of power and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals.