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Roald Dahl Re-Writes: The Pros and Cons of Sanitising History

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"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", "Matilda", "The BFG", "James and the Giant Peach" these are just some of Roald Dahl's most famous stories written for kids all around the world. 

Last week we heard the news that Puffin, the British publishing house, is releasing new editions of Dahl's children's stories that have been rewritten to suit modern sensibilities, changing some words in an effort to not offend readers. 

The words "fat" and "ugly" have gone and gendered phrases switched like the Cloud-Men becming Cloud-People. 

These changes have caused quite a stir online - with many taking to social media to post their anger.

In today's episode, we take a look at whether we should be sanitising our history and why got so upset over a few small words. 

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CREDITS 

Host: Claire Murphy

With thanks to: 

Michelle Smith - Senior Lecturer in Literary Studies at Monash University

Producer: Claire Murphy

Executive Producer: Kally Borg

Audio Producer: Thom Lion

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