In the 1930’s, after he became leader, many of those who had previously been his comrades were put on trial for crimes against State, “confessed” and were put to death.

Snowball’s career follows that of Trotsky, who was defeated for the Soviet leadership by Stalin and later expelled from the Soviet Union. Many of those found guilty of crimes against the Soviet State in 1930s said that Trotsky had inspired them. Of the neighbouring farms, Foxwood can stand for the European Allies during World War 2, while Pinchfield stands for Germany, so that the attack by Frederick and his men on the farm, and following destruction of the windmill, which the animals had built before, represent German invasion of the Soviet Union and its results.

The lesser characters in the book stand for “types” rather than individuals: Moses represents the forces of religion; Clover knows something has gone wrong with the Revolution but can’t express it clearly.

The horse Boxer uses his great physical strength to establish the Revolution, he contributed the most to the development of the windmill, but simply answers all his increasing doubts and problems with the two slogans “Comrade Napoleon is always right” and “I will work harder”.

The issue of Boxer represents how people are used for their skills and talents. As soon as they are not needed they are disregarded. So when Boxer was unable to continue working, Napoleon got rid of him.

“Boxer’s face disappeared at the window. Boxer was never seen again.”

This scene illustrates that Animal Farm is a real story about human nature, as it is a human tendency to use people to achieve certain means, but disregard them as soon as they are no longer needed.

Clover’s feeling for Boxer also illustrates how Animal Farm is about human nature and behaviour. Clover’s fondness for Boxer is shown when Boxer confided in Clover admitting to her how much his split hoof hurt. Clover treated Boxer’s troubled hoof with poultices of herbs.

After Boxer’s hoof had healed, he worked harder than ever and Clover tried to convince him that he shouldn’t be working so hard and he should be taking better care of his hoof, but Boxer paid no attention. When Boxer had his fall, Clover was first who was coming to his aid, for the next two days when Boxer had to stay in his stall and was giving Boxer a medicine. In the evenings Clover was lying in his stall and talking to him. When the knackers came to collect Boxer, Clover did all in her power to stop the knackers taking Boxer away.