Here's how:
* Aunt Sponge's self-proclaimed "martyrdom": Aunt Sponge constantly portrays herself as a victim, suffering for the sake of James and his family. She complains about the work she does, the food she cooks, and the general burden of looking after James. However, her "suffering" is often self-inflicted and exaggerated, making her more of a manipulator than a true martyr.
* The "martyrdom" of the bugs: The bugs, especially Grasshopper, talk about how much they've endured in their own lives. They see themselves as victims of circumstance, having to overcome challenges and hardships. However, their "martyrdom" is more about surviving and finding resilience, rather than a passive acceptance of suffering.
* James's journey: James's time in the giant peach can be seen as a metaphor for life's challenges. He must face his fears, learn to work with others, and overcome obstacles. Although he faces danger and hardship, he also experiences joy and growth, highlighting a positive approach to adversity.
In conclusion, the concept of "martyrdom" in James and the Giant Peach is mostly tied to the characters' perceptions of their own suffering and their struggles to cope with challenging situations. While the word itself isn't used, the themes of sacrifice, hardship, and resilience are prominent throughout the story.