The phrase Pied Piper is often used to suggest one who leads others down a questionable path.
I cannot, however, think of the best term to use to describe a "child" following said Pied Piper, in a analogous usage of the story.
What are some ideas for this? Ideally one could use it in a way that someone would rapidly understand the analogy, without requiring a detailed explanation from yourself.
In addition to sheep and lemming, which others have suggested:
Single-word adjective: Enchanted or charmed.
Single-word noun: follower.
Adjectival expression: to have drunk the kool-aid or to be under the spell.
If you wish to emphasize the thrall under which the piper holds his subject, consider minion
A follower or underling of a powerful person, especially a servile or unimportant one. [Oxford Dictionary Online]
If the innocence of the adherent is the focus, perhaps the noun, naif (or naive)
One who is artless, credulous, or uncritical. [American Heritage Dictionary]
Q.The best term to use to describe a "child" following said Pied Piper.
A. Sacrificial lamb
Reasons- Lambs are young and innocent as are children. Lambs are animals that flock together so can be led.
A. Drunken sailor
Reasons - A sailor is a low ranking member of an armed force who has been trained to follow orders. An intoxicated person can easily be duped.
A. Zombie
Reasons - Zombies follow in large groups with minimal instincts. They respond to noises to search out the living to satisfy their hunger.
