Summary of Chapter 1: This chapter introduces the main characters in the novel: Wilbur, the piglet, Fern, the preteen girl, and Charlotte, the spider. Wilbur is born the runt of his litter and is immediately targeted for slaughter by his owner, Mr. Arable, who only allows Fern to plead on his behalf. Fern successfully convinces her father to let Wilbur live and raises him on their farm as a pet. Wilbur is soon joined by Charlotte, a spider who moves into the corner of Wilbur’s barn and starts weaving webs to catch food for him.

Question 1: Who is the protagonist of Charlotte’s Web? Answer: Wilbur is the protagonist of Charlotte’s Web. (Page 10)

Question 2: Who saves Wilbur from being slaughtered? Answer: Fern saves Wilbur from being slaughtered. (Page 9)

Question 3: What type of animal is Charlotte? Answer: Charlotte is a spider. (Page 11)