Character Textual Response - Benjamin Dante Di Paolo 9th Grade

In the allegorical novel Animal Farm, George Orwell uses animals to represent humans or groups in Stalin's Russian Revolution. A character who is integral to the development of the storyline is Benjamin, an aged donkey. It is unclear which group or person in Stalin's Revolution Benjamin represents. However, one theory is that Benjamin is used to portray the sceptics living in the revolution, especially those who do not criticise Stalin's regime publicly. Orwell uses Benjamin to represent the sceptics as he is is strong minded, yet smart enough to keep his beliefs low profile so as not to face repercussions. His interactions with the other animals are typically abrupt and rude and he is not renowned for his hard work. However he is respected by all the animals. His stubbornness is evident throughout the text, and despite his rudeness he is undeniably loyal and helpful to those in need.

Throughout the novel, it becomes apparent that Benjamin is an extremely intelligent and mentally strong animal. Orwell states that Benjamin 'could read as well as any pig', which immediately leads the reader to assume that he is one of the, if not the, smartest animal on the farm. However this is not the only piece of evidence that suggests...