Skin

The events and characters of “Skin” reflect the societal norms, values, and attitudes in the aftermath of World War II. Through the theme of Dehumanization and Objectification, Roald Dahl dissects the power dynamics of human interaction and the consequences of reducing individuals to mere objects.

Dehumanization is the process by which individuals are deprived of their human qualities and treated as worthless or disposable. Meanwhile, objectification involves treating individuals as mere objects, devoid of agency. Through Drioli’s experiences, Dahl illustrates both processes to highlight social inequality. Due to his poverty and lack of social status, the protagonist is both dehumanized and objectified. The gallery owner’s dismissal of Drioli’s humanity is emphasized when he “look[s] Drioli up and down, slowly like a farmer appraising an old horse” (17). In this appraisal of Drioli’s body, he ponders how much longer the old man has to live. As negotiations continue, the art dealer’s ideas become more outlandish, including surgery to replace Drioli’s skin, which he is unlikely to survive. The art dealer and the hotel owner view the protagonist as a hunter sees a tiger. His value lies in his hide, which can be capitalized on only after he is dead.