Question

In chapter 8, Minimus writes this poem about Napoleon. Choose two (2) lines from this poem that strike you as ironic and explain why.

a) "Friend of fatherless! Fountain of happiness!"
b) "Thou are the giver of all that thy creatures love"
c) "Comrade Napoleon! Had I a sucking-pig"
d) "Thou watchest over all, Comrade Napoleon!"

Answer 1

The lines from Minimus's poem about Napoleon in 'Animal Farm' are ironic as they contrast the glorifying language with the tyranny and misery Napoleon actually imposes, highlighting his role as a dictator rather than a benevolent leader.

Step-by-step explanation:

In chapter 8 of Animal Farm, Minimus, the poet pig, writes a laudatory poem about Napoleon which is filled with irony. Two particular lines stand out for this reason:

• 'Friend of fatherless! Fountain of happiness!'
• 'Thou watchest over all, Comrade Napoleon!'

The irony in these lines stems from the stark contrast between the praise heaped upon Napoleon and the oppressive reality he has created on the farm. Napoleon, far from being a 'Friend of fatherless' or a 'Fountain of happiness,' is actually responsible for creating orphans and spreading misery as he consolidates power and terrorizes the other animals. Likewise, the assertion that he 'watchest over all' is depicted ironically, as his leadership is characterized not by protection but by surveillance and control.