In the classic children’s story “The Adventures of Pinocchio,” the titular wooden puppet encounters a variety of characters, including a cunning cat and a sly fox. These two animals play a significant role in Pinocchio’s journey, and their names have become iconic in popular culture.
In the original Italian novel by Carlo Collodi, the cat and fox are named “Il Gatto” and “La Volpe,” which simply mean “The Cat” and “The Fox” in English. However, in the Disney adaptation of the story, they are given more distinctive names: Figaro and Honest John.
Figaro: The Cunning Cat
Figaro is a sleek and mischievous black cat who is always looking for an easy meal. He is voiced by Cliff Edwards in the Disney film, and his signature song, “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee (An Actor’s Life for Me),” has become a classic Disney tune.
Figaro is a master of disguise and often uses his cunning to trick others. He is also a skilled thief, and he is always willing to steal food or valuables if he can get away with it.
Despite his mischievous nature, Figaro is not completely heartless. He does have a soft spot for Pinocchio, and he is willing to help him on occasion.
Figaro’s name is likely a reference to the character of Figaro in Rossini’s opera “The Barber of Seville.” This Figaro is also a cunning and mischievous character, and he is known for his clever disguises and his ability to get into and out of trouble.
Honest John: The Sly Fox
Honest John is a smooth-talking fox who is always looking for a way to make a quick buck. He is voiced by Walter Catlett in the Disney film, and he is known for his charming demeanor and his ability to spin a good yarn.
Honest John is a master manipulator, and he is always able to convince others to do what he wants. He is also a skilled con artist, and he is always looking for a way to swindle people out of their money.
Despite his sly nature, Honest John is not completely heartless. He does have a soft spot for Pinocchio, and he is willing to help him on occasion.
Honest John’s name is likely a reference to the character of Honest John in Washington Irving’s story “Rip Van Winkle.” This Honest John is also a sly and cunning character, and he is known for his ability to spin a good yarn and his willingness to deceive others.
Conclusion
Figaro and Honest John are two of the most iconic characters in “The Adventures of Pinocchio.” They are both cunning and mischievous, but they also have a soft spot for Pinocchio.
The names “Figaro” and “Honest John” have become synonymous with the characters they represent. They are both memorable and fitting names, and they help to bring the characters to life.