Discuss "Absolute power corrupts absolutely" based on Animal Farm.

I think that the basic idea of how power can be a
corrupting influence would have to be seen with Napoleon in the early stages of the
farm's control.  Orwell describes how both Napoleon and Snowball are able to assert
control, but that there was something inherent in the former's character that made him
almost predisposed to coveting power.  It is in this element that the notion of absolute
power corrupts absolutely is highly evident.  Napoleon views power as a way to reflect
his own identity, or his own "cult of personality." Similar to Stalin, Napoleon views
power as an extension of himself and his own identity.  Accordingly, as his faith in
himself increases, so does his power.  It is here where the notion of corruption is
evident.  Napoleon views control as essential to ensuring that his power is
unquestioned, and his ability to consolidate it is reflective of his desire to maximize
total influence over the direction and affairs of the farm.  Accordingly, his use of
forced confessions, forced loyalty amongst the animals, and the basic premises of not
being questioned in any way is what makes him embody the idea that power corrupts in an
absolute manner.