Again, because “donkeys live a long time” (6.17). You could say that Benjamin has long-term vision: unlike anyone else, he remembers the past and thinks about the future, so he doesn’t bother getting worked up over what he sees as passing phases or fads.

What does Benjamin mean in Animal Farm Chapter 3 when he says Donkeys live a long time none of you has ever seen a dead donkey?

His comment that they have never seen a ‘dead donkey’ is a hint that he has seen similar events in the past and so he is not as excited as the other animals. Benjamin’s responses are often negative, he doesn’t share in the enthusiasm of the other animals even in their victories.

What does Benjamin the donkey represent in Animal Farm?

Within the novella’s allegory of Soviet history, Benjamin represents the intellectuals who failed to oppose Stalin. More broadly, Benjamin represents all intellectuals who choose to ignore politics. Benjamin pays a high price for his refusal to engage with the Farm’s politics.

Who is Benjamin the donkey and what does he symbolize?

Benjamin is the old, irritable donkey who doesn’t care who’s in control, because he says that work will be the same either way. He is one of the few on the farm who can read, and who still remembers the original commandments. He has an unlikely friendship with Boxer as well.

What is a quote from Benjamin in Animal Farm?

He would say that God had given him a tail to keep the flies off, but that he would sooner have had no tail and no flies. Windmill or no windmill, life would go on as it had always gone on – that is, badly. Donkeys live a long time.

Do Donkeys live a long time?

Prior to getting a donkey, it is important to be aware that owning a donkey is a long-term commitment; the average age for donkeys in the UK is 27 but donkeys can live to over 40 years old! Donkeys are not like horses; they differ physically, mentally and emotionally.