The publisher's decision to bowdlerize [ˈbaʊdləˌraɪz] the classic novel was met with mixed reactions.

bowdlerize
verb [ˈbaʊdləˌraɪz]

1) In its strictest sense, to bowdlerize a book, manuscript, etc. is to modify it by editing so that nothing judged to be morally harmful or offensive remains.

2) More broadly, means "to modify by abridging, simplifying, or distorting in style or content."

The Family Shakespeare... Though the sanitized project later became a public sensation... second edition was published in 1818 and credited solely to physician Thomas Bowdler...

English