Utopian and Dystopian Elements in Children's Books: Images and Constructs of Childhood in ''Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'' and ''Matilda''

Abstract

Many children’s books contain utopian and/or dystopian elements. These elements can function as a means to make the reader aware of established ideas. Adults often believe in simplified constructs of childhood. These constructs are changed or criticized repeatedly in children’s literature. This research focuses on the utopian and dystopian elements in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and in Matilda written by Roald Dahl and on how these elements contribute to the critique of simplified constructs of childhood.