The BFG

Dahl’s patriotic values are evident in the text, as well as several derogatory references to other nationalities. How does the novel’s Anglocentrism affect the story when considered through a modern lens?

How do the fantastical settings of Giant Country and Dream Country further develop the novel’s theme of The Joy of Silliness and Imagination?

How is poetic justice achieved for all of the giants, including the BFG, in a way that punishes or rewards their actions? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

The strengths and skills of underdogs are often overlooked, allowing these individuals to triumph. How are Sophie and the BFG characterized as underdogs? How do their underdog qualities help them to triumph over the powerful giants? Incorporate textual support in your answer.

Compare the BFG’s life before and after his adventure with Sophie. Why do the BFG and Sophie become such good friends? How does Dahl use their story to convey The Power of Friendship? Though the nine man-eating giants are not friends with the BFG, could they be said to be friends with each other? Refer directly to the text in your answer.

The BFG critiques humans as well as giants and says that both make rules without consideration of others. In what ways are humans, as represented in the novel, just as bad as the man-eating giants? How does Dahl interrogate humanity using fantastical creatures (the giants)?

To what extent does Dahl present the BFG as a figure of moral authority? Does the BFG’s decision to unleash a trogglehumper (bad nightmare) on the Fleshlumpeater after the Fleshlumpeater bullies him contradict his usual values? Strengthen your response with evidence from the text.

The nine man-eating giants go from having unfettered access to travel the world to being restrained in a pit. What does this restriction of movement represent? Do you think their punishment is just? Why or why not? Develop your answer by referring to the text.