Definition of Anthropomorphism
Watership Down is an anthropomorphic novel intended to allegoricize human society and explore the differences between human nature and other animals' natures. Religion and governance or leadership are among the most prominent concepts explored through this framework. Such allegories are helpful insomuch as they provide a new way of looking at old problems—a recontextualization of familiar power struggles and ethical dilemmas. By utilizing an allegorical framework for Watership Down, Adams provides commentary on human nature and society indirectly.
In the following curious example of anthropomorphism, Bigwig uses a derogatory human term to refer to Strawberry, whose presence the larger and more aggressive rabbit finds grating:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"He'll be all right, you know, if we give him a chance," said Hazel to Bigwig by the lake. "So he darned well ought to be," replied Bigwig, "the great dandy"—for by their standards Strawberry was scrupulously clean and fastidious. "Well, I won't have him brow-beaten, Bigwig, mind. That won't help him."