Characters

These two central characters work together to save Wilbur’s life, crafting messages into Charlotte’s web, along with help from the other farm animals. Although this novel was written for and is still primarily read by children, it’s loved by readers of all ages around the world. 

Wilbur

Wilbur is the main character in E.B. White’s timeless classic Charlotte’s Web. Wilbur is a young pig who is about to be sent away to be slaughtered until he is saved by a small gray spider named Charlotte. Wilbur’s life is changed forever when Charlotte saves him, and he has a unique opportunity to learn and experience more than what he had ever imagined before.

Wilbur quickly becomes a lovable character, with his naivety and innocence making him endearing to all readers. He loves playing with the other barnyard animals and is often times outsmarted or embarrassed by them. As the story progresses, Wilbur learns important lessons and values, such as courage and friendship. He also discovers that true friendship can be found in unexpected places. 

Although Wilbur is small and naive, he always manages to remain strong and determined in the face of adversity, proving that even though he may not always know what’s going on, he will do whatever it takes to protect his friends.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a grey spider with a white streak on her back, is one of the main characters in E.B. White’s novel Charlotte’s Web. Throughout the story, Charlotte and her friends Wilbur the pig, Templeton the rat, and the rest of the barnyard animals teach readers valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of being kind to each other.

Charlotte’s most notable trait is her selfless nature. She often puts others before herself, going out of her way to help Wilbur, even though it means sacrificing her own safety and well-being. Charlotte’s personality is characterized by her warm-heartedness, her strong sense of morality, and her unyielding loyalty. Her gentle and understanding attitude makes her an inspiration to readers, young and old. Charlotte proves that small acts of kindness can make all the difference in someone’s life.

Charlotte saves Wilbur’s life by spinning words into her web. She is an advocate for Wilbur, always looking out for him and encouraging him. She is also an inspiration to Wilbur, teaching him that there is more to life than food and sleep.

Fern

Fern is the eight-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arable, who saves Wilbur from being slaughtered when he is born. Fern is kind-hearted and loves animals, especially Wilbur. She immediately bonds with him and with the other animals on the farm. She teaches Wilbur how to communicate with humans and continues to care for him throughout the story.

She treats Wilbur like a friend, and he returns her affection by following her around. The first half of the novel is primarily driven by Fern’s friendship with Wilbur. 

As the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Fern is outgrowing her friendship with the barn animals and is becoming more interested in making friends with children her own age (this alludes to one of the central themes of the novel—aging). 

Templeton

Templeton is a rat who lives in the barn where Wilbur is kept and is often considered to be the antagonist of the novel. At first, he appears selfish and unhelpful, but as the story progresses, he becomes an important ally of Wilbur. Templeton helps Wilbur by finding materials for Charlotte’s web and by using his wily ways to trick other animals on the farm.

Mr. Zuckerman

Mr. Zuckerman is the farmer who owns the barn where Wilbur lives. At first, he seems uncaring and cold, but eventually, he develops a fondness for Wilbur and appreciates Charlotte’s efforts to save Wilbur’s life. He gives Wilbur a safe place to live.

John Arable 

Fern’s father and Wilbur’s first owner. He’s practical, cares about his family, and tries to make the right decisions for his farm. 

Avery

Fern’s brother, who gets in trouble and is known for carrying objects around in his pockets. 

Mrs. Arable 

Mrs. Arable is Fern’s mother, who helps her take care of Wilbur when he’s a piglet. She wants her daughter to make friends with children her own age and not spend as much time with animals, though. 

Lurvy 

The hired worker on the Zuckerman farm. He finds Charlotte’s webs and reports to his boss every time there’s a new one. 

Oldest Sheep 

An impatient sheep who doesn’t like it when Wilbur is too loud or rude. But, he is in his heart compassionate and helps Wilbur out. 

The Geese

The geese are a group of birds who live near the barn where Wilbur lives. They are important characters in Charlotte’s Web because they help spread the news of Wilbur’s greatness throughout the countryside.

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