In Chapter 5 of Animal Farm, the atmosphere on the farm becomes increasingly tense as the rivalry between Napoleon and Snowball escalates. The two pigs represent conflicting visions for the future of Animal Farm, with Snowball advocating for progressive ideas, including the construction of a windmill to generate electricity and improve the animals' quality of life. In contrast, Napoleon is more focused on consolidating power and controlling the other animals rather than pursuing ambitious projects.

As the chapter unfolds, the animals begin to grow divided in their loyalties, which reflects the growing ideological rift between the two pigs. Snowball's passionate speeches about the windmill inspire many of the animals, especially the sheep, who see hope in the prospect of a better life. However, Napoleon, who is not interested in the windmill project, decides to take drastic measures to eliminate Snowball's influence.

Napoleon's ruthless ambition culminates in a shocking act of aggression. He secretly raises a pack of dogs, which he has been training to become his loyal enforcers. During a pivotal meeting where the animals are to vote on whether to proceed with the windmill project, Napoleon sets his dogs on Snowball, chasing him off the farm. This moment signifies a critical turning point in the story, as it marks the outright seizure of power by Napoleon, who now stands unopposed.

With Snowball gone, Napoleon swiftly consolidates his authority. He alters the commandments of Animalism to justify his actions, creating a narrative that paints Snowball as a traitor who was always in league with humans. This manipulation of truth exemplifies Orwell's theme of propaganda and the distortion of reality in totalitarian regimes. Squealer, Napoleon's spokesperson, plays a crucial role in disseminating this propaganda to the other animals, convincing them that their memories of Snowball are flawed and that Napoleon is the true leader who knows what is best for them.

The chapter also illustrates the growing disillusionment among the animals. They begin to realize that the ideals of the revolution are being undermined. The once unified collective spirit of the farm is fracturing, with fear and obedience replacing camaraderie. The sheep are manipulated into bleating slogans that support Napoleon, drowning out any dissenting voices.

As the chapter concludes, the animals are left grappling with their newfound reality. They are no longer participants in a collective movement towards equality but rather subjects under a new dictatorship, where their original ideals of freedom and equality are being corrupted by the very leaders they had hoped would liberate them. This chapter serves as a poignant critique of how power can corrupt, leading to betrayal of revolutionary ideals and the emergence of a new form of oppression.