Animal Farm Minor Characters

Animal Farm Minor Characters

1. Mollie

   • "foolish, pretty white mare" (pg. 14)
   • represents the White Russians who had a privileged life under the Tsar
   • Not committed to the revolution as she doesn't want to lose her privileges
   • she oversleeps, complains of "mysterious pains" and is workshy
   • seems fascinated and envious of the luxuries acquired by humans

2. Moses

   • represents Russian Orthodox Church
   • convinces animals that there is better life on Sugarcandy Mountain
     • animals therefore accept their sufferings as a temporary trial to be endured before they find eternal peace and happiness

3. The Dogs

   • counterpart of Stalin's secret police
   • loyal animals, wag their tales at Napoleon in the same way that they did at Mr Jones
   • During Major's speech they chase the rats but are stopped from hurting them as it is against Animalism
   • Like the pigs, they are rewarded for dealing ruthlessly with any objectors and murduring Napoleon's opposition

4. The Sheep

   • represent most stupid elements of society - no names individual that stands out
   • always bleat out the slogan "four legs good, two legs bad"

5. The Hens

   • only group that attempts to show resistance to Napoleon
   • The hens are told by Napoleon to surrender their eggs, whereas Major said they should never have to
   • retaliate by smashing their own eggs, in the same way the kulaks destroyed their own farms rather than let Stalin's government take them over
   • Napoleon's ruthless suppression of the hens demonstrates his willingness to use terror and murder to achieve his own ends

6. The Cat

   • we hear very little from the cat once Napoleon is in power
   • She appears to represent the forces of self-interest and hypocrisy
   • she has little as possible to do with the revolution, but is willing to enjoy its benefits

7. Mr Pilkington

   • in the allegory stands for Britain under Churchill
   • Like Napoleon, he is keen to exploit his workers
   • Foxwood Farm is described as "overgrown and neglected" while its owner enjoy fishing and hunting

8. Mrs Jones

   • mentioned in an unfavourable light
     • either snoring or running away from the farm

9. Mr Frederick

   • "hard businessman and argumentative but screwed" (pg. 41)
   • most striking characteristic is his cruelty
   • tricks Napoleon when he tries to trade and bargain with him
   • helps destroy windmill

10. Mr Whymper

    • the solicitor profits from the animals' misery and suffering
    • "a sly looking little man" (pg. 64)
    • as a result of his dealings with Animal Farm he can buy himself a dogcart