Read the passage from Animal Farm. In the late summer yet another of Snowball's 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?
Answer
A
The fight to gain power can cause best friends to become enemies.
B
Those in power may spread propaganda to further their cause.
C
Great leaders empower others to do their very best.
D
Even heroes cannot be trusted with the success of a community.
Explanation
Squealer presents unverified claims about Snowball as facts, including that Snowball sabotaged the wheat and had lied about receiving an award. He also tells the animals that their own memories are wrong when they feel confused. This shows how those in power can use propaganda to shape what others believe and advance their cause, which is choice B.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.