What is the character sketch of mrs wormwood?

Mrs. Wormwood, from Roald Dahl's "Matilda," is a quintessential example of a selfish and uncaring parent. While she is not inherently malicious, her self-centeredness and superficiality blind her to her daughter's extraordinary abilities and genuine needs. Here's a breakdown of her character:

Negative Traits:

* Self-absorbed: Mrs. Wormwood cares deeply about her own appearance and social status, and anything that doesn't directly benefit her or her "social climbing" is irrelevant. She dismisses Matilda's intellectual pursuits and considers her a nuisance.

* Shallow and materialistic: Mrs. Wormwood values wealth and appearances above all else. She is obsessed with gambling and dreams of winning big, neglecting her responsibility as a mother.

* Dismissive and uncaring: She shows little interest in Matilda's well-being or development. She is quick to anger and verbally abusive, frequently belittling and dismissing her daughter's feelings.

* Unaware and oblivious: Mrs. Wormwood is blind to her own flaws and incapable of recognizing Matilda's intelligence and potential. She is also incredibly ignorant about the world around her, falling prey to scams and believing the most absurd lies.

Positive Traits:

* Not inherently malicious: While her actions are harmful, Mrs. Wormwood is not portrayed as a truly evil person. She is simply deeply self-centered and lacking in empathy.

* Capable of love, albeit shallow: While her love for Matilda is superficial and conditional, she does show some genuine affection for her daughter at times, particularly when she believes Matilda is bringing her fame or fortune.

Overall:

Mrs. Wormwood is a stark contrast to her intelligent and compassionate daughter. Her character serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked selfishness and the devastating impact it can have on children. She is a foil to Matilda's goodness, highlighting the importance of empathy, kindness, and recognizing the brilliance in others.