In George Orwell’s Animal Farm, Benjamin is a donkey.
Benjamin is one of the farm’s oldest animals and is known for his skeptical, pessimistic attitude. He can read, but he rarely uses that ability to challenge the farm’s rulers. His caution reflects his belief that political changes usually leave ordinary workers no better off.
Benjamin is a close friend of Boxer, the hardworking cart-horse. After Boxer is injured and removed from the farm, Benjamin recognizes the lettering on the van and understands that Boxer is being taken to the knacker, although he cannot save him. This episode exposes the pigs’ betrayal of their loyal workers.
The animals in Animal Farm function as political symbols, but Benjamin is not simply a representation of one politician. He embodies politically aware passivity: he sees the danger clearly yet remains reluctant to act until it is too late.