Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator

Describe the direct and indirect characterization tools Dahl utilizes to portray President Gilligrass as an incompetent imbecile.

How does Wonka’s chocolate factory contribute to his characterization as the embodiment of silliness and fun?

Dahl returns the three bedbound grandparents to their original ages; they do not benefit from the anti-aging effects of Wonka-Vite. How does an instance of poetic justice connect to the factory’s function as a moral teacher?

How does Dahl use the contrasting habits of the grandparents (Grandpa Joe compared to Grandpa George, Grandma Georgina, and Grandma Josephine) to explore the notion that old age is a mindset, rather than a physical inevitability?

How does Wonka’s nonchalant acceptance of danger demonstrate the benefits of accepting life’s stressors and risks, rather than railing against them?

Do you read Dahl’s British patriotism in his critique of American consumerism and politics? Or do you believe that he is mocking society more generally? Justify your choice using textual evidence.

Charlie, the story’s hero, demonstrates many noble qualities, including courage, compassion, humility, and selflessness. Which of his qualities does the story suggest is the most important? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

As well as embodying fantasy and fun, the factory contains dark and scary spaces, like Minusland. Why are these dark spaces are important? What do they symbolize?