Consider how this story would be read differently if it were set in modern times. Would the ethical dilemma be different? Would you view the characters and their actions differently?

Do you think Mrs. Foster’s act of omission is morally justified? Why or why not? What do you think the story’s narrator thinks? What about Dahl?

Consider how the story creates expectations and surprises. What did you expect to happen, and were you surprised? How did the story create this effect?

Emotions & Behavior

Fear

Values & Ideas

Good & Evil

Relationships

Marriage

Revenge

Roald Dahl

Adult

Short Story

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Way Up To Heaven and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.