Index IntroductionThe Positioning of Pigs as LeadersSnowball as ScapegoatThe Boxer as ScapegoatSnowball as Scapegoat on a Larger ScaleScapegoating and Wider Patterns of Power and OppressionThe Danger of blindly accepting scapegoatsConclusionIntroductionIn George Orwell's short story Animal Farm, the concept of scapegoating plays a significant role in the narrative. Scapegoating is the act of blaming a particular individual or group for society's problems and shortcomings, often as a means of diverting attention from the real problems at hand. This essay will explore the theme of the scapegoat in Animal Farm, examining how it is used by pigs in power to maintain control over other animals and how it reflects broader patterns of power and oppression. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Positioning the Pigs as Leaders From the beginning of the story, the pigs, led by Napoleon and Snowball, position themselves as leaders of the animal revolution. They claim to work for the betterment of all animals, promising equality and freedom. However, as time passes, it becomes clear that the pigs use scapegoating as a tool to consolidate their power and maintain control over the farm. Snowball as a Scapegoat One of the first examples of scapegoating in the story occurs when Snowball is blamed for what happened. destruction of the windmill. After the windmill collapses, the pigs, led by Napoleon, spread the rumor that Snowball was responsible for the destruction. They paint him as a traitor, accusing him of being in league with the human farmers. By shifting the blame to Snowball, Napoleon manages to divert attention from the fact that the collapse was actually due to the pigs' mismanagement and greed. This scapegoating allows Napoleon to consolidate his power and eliminate any potential threats to his authority. Boxer as a Scapegoat Another example of a scapegoat can be seen in the character of Boxer, the loyal and hard-working horse. Boxer is portrayed as the embodiment of the working class, always doing his best for the good of the farm. However, when Boxer gets injured and can no longer work, the pigs use him as a scapegoat for their own failures. They sell him to the gutter, claiming they will send him to a vet for treatment. In reality, they are exploiting his work and profiting from his suffering. This scapegoating of Boxers allows the pigs to continue their oppressive rule without checks or resistance. Snowball Scapegoating on a Larger Scale Scapegoating by pigs is not limited to individual animals; they also employ it on a larger scale to maintain control over the entire farm. Throughout the tale, the pigs use the figure of Snowball as a scapegoat for any problems or failures that occur. Whenever something goes wrong, the pigs blame Snowball, claiming that he is sabotaging their efforts and working against the animals' interests. This scapegoating allows the pigs to divert attention from their own failures and incompetences, presenting themselves as the only solution to the problems they themselves have created. Scapegoating and Wider Patterns of Power and Oppression The theme of scapegoating in Animal Farm reflects broader patterns of power and oppression in society. Scapegoating is a common tactic used by those in power to maintain control and deflect blame. By creating a.