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:

To determine the theme, analyze each option:

• First option: The passage focuses on misinformation about Snowball, not heroes’ trustworthiness. Eliminate.
• Second option: The passage shows Squealer (and those in power) spreading false claims (e.g., Snowball’s sabotage, fake heroism) to shape the animals’ beliefs, aligning with propaganda to further their cause.
• Third option: The passage does not involve “best friends” becoming enemies, but misinformation about Snowball. Eliminate.
• Fourth option: The passage portrays misinformation, not empowerment. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. Those in power may spread propaganda to further their cause.