Question

read the passage from animal farm.
in the late summer yet another of snowballs machinations was laid bare. the wheat crop was full of weeds, and it was discovered that on one of his nocturnal visits snowball had mixed weed seeds with the seed corn. a gander who had been privy to the plot had confessed his guilt to squealer and immediately committed suicide by swallowing deadly nightshade berries. the animals now also learned that snowball had never - as many of them had believed hitherto - received the order of animal hero, first class. this was merely a legend which had been spread some time after the battle of the cowshed by snowball himself. so far from being decorated, he had been censured for showing cowardice in the battle. once again some of the animals heard this with a certain bewilderment, but squealer was soon able to convince them that their memories had been at fault.
which statement best summarizes the theme of this passage?
even heroes cannot be trusted with the success of a community.
those in power may spread propaganda to further their cause.
the fight to gain power can cause best friends to become enemies.
great leaders empower others to do their very best.

Explanation:

In the passage, Squealer spreads false information (propaganda) about Snowball (mixing weed seeds, not being a true hero). This shows those in power (like Squealer representing the ruling pigs) use propaganda to further their cause (maintain their control and present Snowball as a villain). The other options don't fit as well. There's no focus on heroes and community success (first option), no indication of best - friends - turned - enemies (third option), and the animals are being misled not empowered (fourth option).

Answer:

Those in power may spread propaganda to further their cause.