Benjamin

Benjamin is a donkey, the oldest animal on the farm. He is described as bad-tempered, and it is noted that he never laughs and often makes sarcastic remarks. He does not seem to care much for the other animals, though he does have a close relationship with Boxer (p. 2).

His exact age is never revealed, but he often remarks that “donkeys live a long time” (e.g. p. 19). This quotation reflects Benjamin’s pessimistic and cynical attitude to life. He believes he has seen everything there is to see – and he has concluded that nothing is likely to change for the better.  

Therefore, Benjamin is the only animal on the farm who is not excited about the Rebellion at any point, continuing to act just like he did before (p. 19). In many ways Benja...