The rabbits became strange in many ways, different from other rabbits. They knew well enough what was happening. But even to themselves they pretended that all was well, for the food was good, they were protected, they had nothing to fear but the one fear; and that struck here and there, never enough at a time to drive them away.They forgot the ways of wild rabbits. They forgot El-ahrairah, for what use had they for tricks and cunning, living in the enemy's warren and paying his price?
The rabbits in "Watership Down" began to change in significant ways, becoming quite different from their wild counterparts. They were aware of the troubling circumstances around them but chose to deceive themselves into thinking everything was fine. Despite having good food and safety, they faced a singular fear that only impacted a few at a time, preventing mass panic.
As a result, these rabbits lost touch with their natural instincts and the teachings of their folklore hero, El-ahrairah. Living within the confines of the enemy's warren made them forget the cunning and resourcefulness typically essential for survival in the wild, highlighting the consequences of comfort and complacency in a controlled environment.
