Character guide for War Horse.
The narrator and protagonist. Joey's perspective allows Morpurgo to explore the war without political commentary — Joey experiences only loyalty, fear, suffering and kindness, cutting through the complexity to the human (and animal) cost of conflict.
Joey's devoted owner. Determined and loyal, Albert enlists the moment he is old enough and spends the war searching for Joey alongside fighting. His bond with Joey is the emotional anchor of the novel.
The British cavalry officer who buys Joey from Albert's father. He is honourable and kind, and promises Albert to look after Joey — a promise the war makes impossible to keep.
Two young German brothers who care for Joey after he is captured. They are kind and gentle, clearly homesick — a reminder that the soldiers on both sides were human beings caught in circumstances beyond their control.