Chapter Four: Summary and Analysis

In Chapter four, there seem to be several interesting parallels between aspects such as socialism, communism, and dictatorships and the animals’ rebellion on the farm. In real life, these socio-political systems inspired changes in other parts of the world, too. Similarly, Animal Farm also inspires change in nearby farms. The animals are not content with limiting their rebellion to Animal Farm. They send out pigeons to other farms informing them of the changes in Animal Farm and the ways in which the lives of animals have now become better.

When Mr. Jones initially tries to warn the other farmers and gain sympathy from them for his losses, he is shunned. The farmers believe he is being paranoid. The other farmers are aware of the problems in Animal Farm, but they place the blame on Mr. Jones’ ineptness. While Mr. Jones is clearly to be blamed for his carelessness, the farmers fail to realize that the widespread rebellion had been brewing for a while.

The other farms also bear signs of rebellion. When this happens, the farmers decide to mount an attack on Animal Farm themselves. Fortunately for Animal Farm, Snowball has been studying military history and is already prepared for this. Snowball devises a witty plan to defeat the humans, and the animals emerge victorious. The battle comes to be known as the “Battle of the Cowshed.” Though they emerge victorious, the animals still experience some casualties and injuries. Nonetheless, this only strengthens their faith in and commitment toward their leaders, which in turn results in an emergent nationalistic spirit. Snowball and Napoleon are both honored for their contributions.