Lesson of Humility from the Literary Masterpiece, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory -Ayesha Binte Islam

Humility is one of the most important moral values. Treating everyone with kindness, contributing to a better society, and performing good deeds all stem from humility. For this reason, it is essential to instill the value of humility in the minds of children at an early age. Reading a good novel can serve as a powerful means to sow this seed. In my opinion, one such novel is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.

Published in 1964, this classic work of children’s literature continues to captivate readers with its entertaining tone and Roald Dahl’s masterful storytelling. Dahl employs humor to make the novel particularly appealing to young readers.

The protagonist, Charlie, is portrayed as a very humble little boy. His character embodies politeness and generosity. For example, he shares a precious chocolate bar—something he rarely gets to enjoy—with his family members. His gentle behavior is highlighted at various points in the story. This not only earns him admiration from other characters but also influences readers to feel the same affection for Charlie.

The plot revolves around the mysterious Mr. Willy Wonka, who has kept his chocolate factory closed to visitors for a long time. One day, Mr. Wonka announces that he will allow five lucky children who find Golden Tickets hidden in his chocolate bars to visit the factory. Roald Dahl builds excitement and tension as Charlie opens each chocolate bar, leaving readers on edge about whether he will discover a Golden Ticket. One by one, the news spreads of four Golden Tickets being found. Finally, through a miraculous twist of fate, Charlie finds the last ticket, and a magical new chapter begins at Mr. Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.

Inside the factory, readers are invited to imagine astonishing inventions performing incredible tasks. These whimsical creations are particularly delightful for young readers to visualize. The introduction of the quirky Oompa-Loompas adds another layer of fun, especially with their cleverly crafted, rhyme-like songs that even older readers will find entertaining.
Mr. Willy Wonka himself is depicted as an exceptionally talented yet eccentric inventor of delicious and innovative chocolates. Despite Mr. Wonka’s peculiar behavior, Charlie treats him with the utmost respect and follows all his instructions without question.

The excitement continues as one by one, the other children visiting the factory misbehave and face consequences for their actions, leaving readers curious about Charlie’s fate. However, Charlie’s consistent humility and good manners set him apart. In the end, Charlie receives an extraordinary reward, one that benefits not only him but also his entire family. Even the other children receive gifts, symbolizing the lessons they’ve learned from their mistakes.

This novel is beautifully crafted, concluding with a heartwarming and happy ending. It imparts an important moral lesson: children who remain good and humble are ultimately rewarded. Throughout the story, Roald Dahl’s narration is marvelously engaging and imaginative, making this masterpiece an enduring favorite for readers of all ages.