Final answer:
Clover is confused by the changes she notices in the Seven Commandments in Chapter 8 of 'Animal Farm'. She asks Muriel, who reads the commandments to her, but reacts indifferently without questioning the changes. This may be due to the fear of repercussions and the control exerted by those in power, a central theme of the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the beginning of Chapter 8 in Animal Farm, Clover is confused because the Seven Commandments, which were the core principles the animals established after their rebellion, seem to have been altered. However, the animals' memories are vague, and they cannot fully trust their recollections.
Clover first asks Muriel, a wise goat, to read the wall where the commandments are written. Muriel reads that one of the commandments now states that animals should not sleep in beds with sheets, which confuses Clover further because she remembered it as simply 'No animal shall sleep in a bed'. Muriel's reaction is passive; she does not question the change and takes it at face value.
The reason for Muriel's nonchalant reaction likely stems from the intimidating atmosphere created by the pigs and the fear of repercussions if anyone questions the changes.
This acceptance symbolizes the broader theme of manipulation and control in the story, where those in power can change the rules to suit their needs, and the subjugated become indifferent or powerless to resist the alterations.