At a first glance, Snowball and Napoleon appear to be relatively alike, but there are, in fact, several differences between them, in addition to their obvious similarities. They unmistakably share several physical characteristics, as well as similar personalities, strengths, etc. However, their ideas regarding Animal Farm and how things should be run are very different. Due to their contrast in ideas, there is such an obvious difference between their relationships with others. Considering them overall, Snowball and Napoleon have very little in common when compared to their numerous differences.
Putting aside their extreme areas of contrast for a moment, we cannot deny that there are a few distinct characteristics shared between these two pigs. Both are very intelligent and were the first among the animals on the farm to begin reading and writing. However, Snowball also has excellent speaking abilities, which is an area where Napoleon lacks. In addition to this, he is also the better reader and writer, suggesting that he is more educated than Napoleon. This is not to say that Napoleon doesn't have his share of greatness. Being a very fierce boar, he was " not much of a talker, but with a reputation for getting his own way"(35). Despite their differences, Snowball and Napoleon have enough in common to have both taken on the role of a leader on Animal Farm.
They may have been somewhat alike in the above aspect however, Napoleon and Snowball do not share the same basic principle ideas. Napoleon's ideas are very limited and seem to involve benefiting him and the other pigs. He has demolished the majority of the seven commandments, and instead he has written them to accommodate his desires such as sleeping in the farmhouse and drinking whisky. Napoleon is also very corrupt and believes in executing any animals who he claims have betrayed him, as is clearly stated, " when they had finished their confessions, the dogs promptly tore their throats out- (93), when Napoleon ordered the dogs to murder several animals.
