Roald Dahl’s children’s stories are under scrutiny again, with a new academic article questioning whether they reinforce outdated stereotypes.

Published in the Australian Journal of Language and Literacy, the paper by education lecturer Dr Mellie Green examines The Twits, arguing its use of ridicule, moral judgment and verbal abuse could shape harmful perceptions in young readers.

It points to descriptions of Mr Twit’s appearance as encouraging “suspicion and distrust” of bearded men, while language directed at Mrs Twit is said to normalise misogynistic insults and humiliation through humour.

The discussion follows earlier revisions to Dahl’s books, where publishers introduced more inclusive language, with both original and edited versions now in circulation.

-with reporter Rory Campbell