Final answer:
Leon Trotsky is portrayed as fearful and powerless in the poster "Be on Guard!", which was a part of Soviet propaganda vilifying Trotsky and depicting him in league with fascists. The poster contrasts with images of Stalin, who is depicted as powerful and heroic, reinforcing his image as a strong leader while belittling enemies like Trotsky and Hitler.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the propaganda poster depicting Leon Trotsky titled "Be on Guard!", Trotsky is portrayed alongside the depiction of Adolf Hitler, both appearing intimidated and cowering in fear. This portrayal is part of a larger theme in Soviet propaganda where Trotsky, once a leader of the Red Army, is vilified and represented as an enemy in league with the fascists, notably Hitler, signifying a betrayal against the Soviet state. The depiction is meant to show Trotsky as powerless and fearful, the very opposite of the images of Stalin which depict him as powerful, defiant, heroic, and resolute.
The style of these posters is a strategic use of art to depict political messaging, with Stalin often shown as the embodiment of strength and leadership, sometimes appearing to lead the nation into battle and at other times overseeing its defense in a steadfast style. Enemies, like Trotsky in this poster, are depicted as weak and comical figures. These exaggerated contrasts aimed to solidify the perception of Stalin as a strong leader and identify Trotsky and other enemies as threats to be ridiculed and feared.