Question

Which excerpt from chapter 1 of Animal Farm is an example of indirect characterization?

“Boxer was an enormous beast, nearly eighteen hands high, and as strong as any two ordinary horses put together.”
“He was twelve years old and had lately grown rather stout, but he was still a majestic-looking pig, with a wise and benevolent appearance.”
“She took a place near the front and began flirting her white mane, hoping to draw attention to the red ribbons it was plaited with.”
“Benjamin was the oldest animal on the farm, and the worst tempered. He seldom talked, and when he did it was usually to make some cynical remark.”

Answer 1

“She took a place near the front and began flirting her white mane, hoping to draw attention to the red ribbons it was plaited with.”

This is indirect characterization because it shows the pig’s vanity through her actions and motive (flirting and seeking attention) rather than directly telling the reader what she is like. The other lines mostly tell traits outright (direct characterization).