Benjamin: The Cynical Observer of Animal Farm - Animal Farm by Orwell

Main characters in-depth analysis - Sykalo Eugen 2024

Benjamin: The Cynical Observer of Animal Farm
Animal Farm by Orwell

  1. Character Introduction:

Name: Benjamin. A biblical name traditionally associated with wisdom, but also donkey-like stubbornness, hinting at his character.

Physical Description: Described as an old, wise-looking donkey, reflecting his cynicism and detachment.

Occupation/Social Status: A workhorse, seemingly indifferent to the farm's political turmoil.

Initial Impressions: Grumpy, cynical, and aloof, seemingly uninterested in the revolution's ideals.

First Actions: Dismisses Old Major's speech with his famous line, "Donkeys live a long time. None of you have ever seen a dead donkey," revealing his world-weary perspective.

  1. Character Development:

Motivations and Desires: Survival and maintaining his routine, unaffected by the changing political landscape.

Internal Conflict: None explicitly mentioned, but his cynicism might clash with moments of empathy.

External Conflict: Faces physical hardships like any other animal but remains emotionally detached.

Driving Force: Self-preservation and a deep understanding of the cyclical nature of power.

Relationships and Interactions:

  • Other animals: Offers occasional cynical remarks but mostly observes from the sidelines.
  • Napoleon: Shows neither fear nor respect, seemingly accepting his fate.
  • Boxer: Shares a bond based on understanding exploitation, offering the only solace Boxer receives.

Impact on Others: Serves as a reminder of the futility of struggle, potentially hindering some animals' hope.

Social Dynamics: Represents the silent majority, observing power dynamics without actively participating.

Growth and Transformation: Remains largely unchanged, solidifying his cynical worldview throughout the story.

III. Deeper Analysis:

Symbols:

  • Donkey: Traditionally symbolizes stubbornness and acceptance of burdens, reflecting Benjamin's personality.
  • Reading ability: Represents intellectualism and access to knowledge, which he chooses not to use.

Foreshadowing: His initial cynicism foreshadows the farm's return to a state resembling human oppression.

Irony: The wisest animal chooses detachment, while others blindly believe in progress, highlighting the complexity of societal change.

Authorial Intent: Orwell likely uses Benjamin to represent those who choose not to engage in political struggles, questioning the effectiveness of rebellion and the nature of progress.

Genre Conventions: Fits the allegorical, political satire genre by exploring the complexities of revolution through animal characters.

Overall Message: Raises questions about the responsibility of individuals in the face of oppression and the limitations of revolution without sustained awareness and participation.

  1. Youth-Oriented Engagement:
  • Relatable Situations: Feeling powerless, witnessing injustice, questioning authority figures.
  • Moral Dilemmas: When is it okay to remain silent? How can we balance cynicism with hope for change?
  • Engaging Language: Focus on Benjamin's witty remarks and his observations of the farm's changing dynamics.
  • Open-Ended Questions: What might have happened if Benjamin tried to act? Would it have made a difference? Should everyone participate in revolutions?