Why Do Authors Use Animals as Characters?
Authors have long been fascinated by the use of animals as characters in their literary works. From Aesop’s fables to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, animals have played significant roles in shaping the narratives and themes of countless stories. The question arises: why do authors choose to incorporate animals into their characters? There are several reasons that explain this intriguing phenomenon.
Firstly, animals serve as effective metaphors for human emotions and behaviors. By assigning human-like qualities to animals, authors can convey complex ideas and emotions in a more relatable and engaging manner. For instance, in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm,” the animals represent different classes of society, symbolizing the struggle for power and the corrupting influence of power. This allegorical approach allows readers to understand the underlying message of the story without being overwhelmed by heavy political commentary.
Secondly, animals can provide a sense of innocence and purity that contrasts with the often morally ambiguous human characters. This dichotomy creates a stark contrast that highlights the flaws and vices of human nature. In Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” the characters Mowgli and Baloo embody this innocence, contrasting with the cunning and manipulative human adults. This contrast serves to emphasize the virtues of simplicity and the dangers of sophistication.
Furthermore, animals can offer a fresh perspective on human experiences. By stepping outside the human perspective, authors can explore universal themes such as love, friendship, and survival in unique and thought-provoking ways. In “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis, the animal characters such as Aslan, a majestic lion, and Mr. Tumnus, a cheerful beaver, provide a sense of wonder and adventure that captivates readers of all ages.
Another reason authors use animals as characters is to evoke empathy and compassion. Animals often evoke a stronger emotional response from readers than human characters, making it easier for authors to convey powerful messages about human values and societal issues. In “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White, the friendship between the pig Wilbur and the spider Charlotte touches the hearts of readers, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and the beauty of life.
Lastly, animals can add an element of fantasy and wonder to a story. The inclusion of animal characters allows authors to create magical worlds and fantastical creatures that spark the imagination of readers. In J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit,” the dwarves, elves, and goblins, along with the talking animals, transport readers to a world filled with wonder and adventure.
In conclusion, authors use animals as characters for various reasons, including the ability to convey complex ideas through allegory, the creation of contrasts that highlight human flaws, the provision of fresh perspectives on universal themes, the evocation of empathy and compassion, and the addition of fantasy and wonder to a story. These reasons demonstrate the enduring appeal of animal characters in literature and their power to captivate and inspire readers across generations.
