What role do the sheep play in the governance of Animal Farm?

The sheep in Animal Farm symbolize blind following and manipulation, which is a critical theme in the novella. Their simplistic and repetitive bleating of slogans like "Four legs good, two legs bad" illustrates how easily they accept and promote the propaganda of the ruling pigs without critical thought. This behavior reflects how certain groups in society can be easily swayed and used by those in power, highlighting the danger of unthinking loyalty and the effectiveness of propaganda.

By being unable to engage in logical reasoning or question authority, the sheep represent the masses who are often exploited by manipulative leaders. This dynamic is particularly relevant in the context of the story, as it mirrors real-world scenarios where those in power control the narrative to maintain their dominance. Thus, the role of the sheep is crucial in understanding the mechanisms of control and the impact of blind obedience in governance.