Miss Trunchbull's notorious cupboard is famously called the Chokey.
Understanding the Chokey
The Chokey is not merely a storage space but a dreaded instrument of punishment used by Miss Trunchbull, the formidable headmistress in Roald Dahl's beloved novel, Matilda. It serves as a severe disciplinary device, designed to inflict discomfort and fear upon students who incur her wrath.
Design and Function
The design of the Chokey is specifically engineered to be a torture device, as described by the character Hortensia:
- It is characterized as a very tall but very narrow cupboard.
- The floor area is remarkably small, measuring only ten inches square.
- Due to its extremely confined dimensions, any student placed inside cannot sit down or even squat, forcing them to remain standing in an uncomfortable, upright position for the entire duration of their punishment.
This deliberate design ensures that the Chokey strips students of any physical comfort or ability to rest, making the experience psychologically and physically grueling. It is a prime example of Miss Trunchbull's brutal and unjust methods of maintaining control and instilling fear within Crunchem Hall Primary School.
Impact and Significance
The Chokey's existence has a profound psychological impact on the students. It represents the ultimate threat and a stark symbol of Miss Trunchbull's unyielding authority. The mere mention of being sent to the Chokey is often enough to instill dread, highlighting the abusive environment she creates. This unique form of punishment underscores the novel's themes of injustice and the resilience of children against tyrannical power.
