Animal characters

Definition

Animal characters are figures in literature that possess human traits, behaviors, and emotions, often used to reflect societal issues or convey moral lessons. These characters can serve as allegories, representing different facets of human nature or societal norms, while also appealing to audiences through their relatability and charm. In the context of written literature and cultural identity, animal characters can highlight themes of race, class, and identity by providing a unique lens through which readers can examine and critique societal constructs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Animal characters have been used throughout history in various cultures to convey moral lessons, particularly in fables and folklore.
2. In African American literature before 1900, animal characters often represented the struggles and resilience of African Americans, using humor and satire to critique societal issues.
3. Characters such as Br'er Rabbit from African American folklore embody cleverness and cunning, reflecting the adaptive strategies of oppressed communities.
4. The use of animal characters allows for a degree of distance when discussing sensitive topics like race and identity, making it easier for authors to address difficult issues.
5. Many works featuring animal characters draw on oral traditions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and storytelling practices within African American communities.

Review Questions

• How do animal characters function as allegories in literature, particularly in relation to societal issues?
  • Animal characters often serve as allegories by embodying human traits that reflect societal issues, allowing readers to engage with complex topics in a more approachable manner. For instance, a character like Br'er Rabbit not only entertains but also offers insights into themes of cunningness and survival in oppressive circumstances. Through these representations, authors can critique social injustices while maintaining the appeal and relatability of the narrative.
• Discuss the role of anthropomorphism in shaping the identity of animal characters within African American literature.
  • Anthropomorphism plays a critical role in shaping animal characters by giving them human-like qualities that allow readers to connect with their experiences on a deeper level. In African American literature, this technique is particularly powerful as it enables authors to explore themes of identity, resilience, and community through relatable figures. By attributing emotions and motivations to animals, authors create narratives that resonate with the audience while addressing complex cultural identities.
• Evaluate how the use of animal characters in literature before 1900 influenced cultural identity among African American communities.
  • The use of animal characters in literature before 1900 significantly influenced cultural identity among African American communities by providing a platform for storytelling that resonated with shared experiences and struggles. These characters often represented resilience and resourcefulness, serving as symbols of hope and adaptation in the face of adversity. By engaging with themes relevant to their lived experiences through allegorical representations, African Americans could affirm their identities while also critiquing societal injustices, thus shaping cultural narratives that have persisted throughout history.

Related terms

Allegory:

A narrative technique in which characters or events symbolize broader concepts or moral lessons, often used in fables and parables.

Anthropomorphism: The attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities, such as animals or inanimate objects.

Fable: A short story that typically features animals as characters and imparts a moral lesson or teaching.