Character Analysis: Ben

              As the more important of two main characters, Ben receives much more attention from the author than any of the other characters in castaways of The Flying Dutchman. Brian Jacques introduces Ben as a young teenage boy, short in stature and mute. After the events aboard the Flying Dutchman that eventually lead to the crew’s damnation by God, Ben and his faithful dog, Ned, are immortalized by God and are tasked with helping others throughout time. Ben is extremely intelligent and can communicate with his dog telepathically. Ben is extremely helpful and kind, but is often haunted by his terrible experiences aboard the Flying Dutchman.