Anthropomorphism and Zoomorphism in Roald Dahl’s The Twits

Abstract

Children’s Literature is literature that persuades its readers to think, act and speak with morality, discipline and humanity.  This research article examines how Roald Dahl’s The Twits is based on Anthropomorphism and Zoomorphism.  This novel deals with the human in non-human and the beast in human.  The term anthropomorphism refers to the attribution of human characteristics, emotions and behaviour to animals or objects.  Another term is Zoomorphism, which represents the qualities of animals and the merciless mind set in humans.  This paper explores the conflicts faced by the birds and animals and their struggle to teach moral values to their captivators.  The selected novel completely supports the anthropomorphic perspective.  This paper primarily focuses on the struggle of animals under the brutal behaviour of humans. It also clearly exposes the demanding authority of humans over non-humans or other beings.