Who is the main antagonist in Animal Farm?

The main antagonist in "Animal Farm" is Napoleon, who embodies the characteristics of a tyrannical leader. Throughout the narrative, he represents the corrupting influence of power and the betrayal of the revolutionary ideals that initially inspired the animal revolt against human oppression. Napoleon's cunning tactics, such as the use of propaganda through Squealer and the elimination of his rivals like Snowball, highlight his authoritarian regime.

His drive for control leads him to manipulate the other animals and ultimately diverges from the principles of equality and fraternity that were supposed to govern the farm. By the end of the story, Napoleon's actions reveal a stark transformation of leadership, showing that he has become indistinguishable from the oppressive human farmer they sought to overthrow. This shift exemplifies the central theme of the novel regarding the cyclical nature of power and corruption.