The puppies in George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ represent the potential for manipulation and the corruptive nature of power. When the pigs, particularly Napoleon, take the puppies away to be raised privately, it indicates their intention to shape and control future generations to serve their interests.
This act of raising the puppies in isolation serves to create a loyal force that can be used to intimidate and enforce Napoleon’s rule over the other animals. As they grow, these dogs become a manifestation of violence and oppression on the farm, directly aligning with the idea that those who hold power often create their own enforcers, who remain loyal to them and uphold their authority.
Furthermore, the puppies symbolize how ideals can be corrupted. Initially, the animals come together to envision a farm where all are equal. However, the way the puppies are trained shows the betrayal of this ideal. It highlights how the leadership can twist equality and freedom into a tool for domination.
In summary, the puppies embody both the blind loyalty fostered by the oppressive regime and the tragic betrayal of revolutionary ideals, making them a significant element within the narrative of ‘Animal Farm.’