Matilda by Roald Dahl

Study Notes

Overview of Matilda

Written by Roald Dahl in 1988, focusing on a gifted girl named Matilda Wormwood with exceptional intelligence and a passion for reading.
Matilda's neglectful family prioritizes television and games over her unique abilities, leading her to seek solace in the library.

Matilda's School Life

Matilda attends Crunchem Hall Primary School, known for its harsh conditions under headmistress Miss Trunchbull, who mistreats students.
Miss Honey, Matilda's kind teacher, recognizes her brilliance and attempts to nurture her talents amid a hostile environment.

Author Background: Roald Dahl

British author with a diverse career, including roles as a spy, fighter pilot, chocolate historian, and medical inventor.
Notable for dark themes in children's literature, often portraying malevolent adults.
Other famous works include "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "The BFG," "The Witches," and "James and the Giant Peach."

Setting of Matilda

Set in an unnamed small village in England, with hints suggesting geographical locations like Aylesbury and Reading.
Significant locations include the Wormwood family's home, the library, Crunchem Hall Primary School, Miss Honey's cottage, and Miss Trunchbull's residence.

Crunchem Hall Primary School

Described as bleak with a brick structure, characterized by Miss Trunchbull's oppressive and frightening leadership.
Miss Trunchbull employs punishment methods such as the "Chokey," a small cupboard for detaining misbehaving children.

Comparison of Homes

The Wormwood household, while physically cozy, provides a toxic environment where Matilda's abilities are disregarded.
In contrast, Miss Honey's run-down cottage, lacking basic comforts, feels like a home to Matilda due to the warmth and kindness of its occupant.

Time Period Analysis

The setting's time period is ambiguous; however, clues suggest it is around 1988 or earlier based on societal elements like television and TV dinners.
Cultural references, such as nods to "Star Wars" and the prevalence of televisions in the 1960s, help to anchor the story's timeline.

Conclusion

Although Matilda faces significant challenges from her family and school, her intelligence and the support from Miss Honey ultimately empower her character, making the story one of resilience and kindness in adversity.

Description

Test Your Knowledge of Matilda by Roald Dahl: How well do you know the beloved children's book Matilda? Take this quiz to see if you can recall key details about Matilda's extraordinary intelligence, her challenging home life, and the adventures she embarks on.