![]() Indeed, "sacrifice" is an often-repeated word in the novel, and Napoleon uses it to excuse what he knows others will see as his blatant disregard for the Seven Commandments of Animalism. One of the most effective ways that Napoleon strengthens his rule is his use of the politics of sacrifice. Slogans such as these are powerful weapons for leaders like Napoleon, who want to keep their followers devoted, docile, and dumb. Even when warned by Clover about exerting himself, Boxer can only think, "I will work harder" and "Napoleon is always right." The fact that he can only think in slogans reflects his inability to engage in any real thought at all. The effect of Napoleon's propaganda is also seen in Boxer's unflagging devotion to the windmill. This transformation of obvious dictatorial practices (forced labor) into seemingly benevolent social programs (volunteering) is another of Napoleon's methods for keeping the animals working and docile. ![]() Thus, Napoleon is able to foster a sense of unity (where animals "volunteer") using the threat of hunger. With the passing of a year, all of the animals (save Benjamin) have wholly swallowed Napoleon's propaganda: Despite their working like "slaves," the animals believe that "everything they did was for the benefit of themselves" and "not for a pack of idle, thieving human beings." When Napoleon orders that animals will need to work on Sundays, he calls the work "strictly voluntary" yet adds that any animal who does not volunteer will have his rations reduced. Napoleon then declares that they will begin rebuilding the windmill that very morning. Napoleon tells the animals that Snowball is responsible for its ruin and offers a reward to any animal who kills Snowball or brings him back alive. That November, a storm topples the half-finished windmill. The pigs move into the farmhouse and begin sleeping in beds, which Squealer excuses on the grounds that the pigs need their rest after the daily strain of running the farm. Jones gives up his attempts at retaking his farm and moves to another part of the county. Other humans meet in pubs and discuss their theories that the windmill will collapse and that Animal Farm will go bankrupt. Whymper, a solicitor, to act as his agent. Napoleon announces that Animal Farm will begin trading with neighboring farms and hires Mr. Building the windmill is a laborious business, and Boxer proves himself a model of physical strength and dedication. During the following year, the animals work harder than ever before.
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