Forbidden Wonderland
Was Lewis Carroll secretly in love with Alice?
A very good question, and one I hope to answer in this speculative article.
Many literary scholars believe that Lewis Carroll was infatuated with his young muse Alice. In fact, some argue that “Alice in Wonderland” serves as an allegory for Carroll’s unrequited passion for Alice. Throughout the novel, Alice experiences surreal adventures filled with whimsy, nonsense, and wordplay that many interpret as reflections of Carroll’s inner turmoil surrounding his feelings for Alice. For instance, the character of the Queen of Hearts represents the strict Victorian society that prohibited adult men from forming romantic connections with young girls, forcing Carroll to suppress his affection for Alice. Meanwhile, the Cheshire Cat embodies Carroll’s playful wit and cleverness in navigating societal norms, and the White Rabbit symbolizes the relentless passage of time that prevented him from acting upon his desires.
I. Introduction: Hints and Allegations of Lewis Carroll’s Love for Alice
Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known under his pseudonym of Lewis Carroll, was a man renowned for his imaginative stories and playful wit. Known primarily for writing two of the world’s best loved classics, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking-Glass,” Carroll’s tales continue to captivate audiences around the globe more than a century since their initial publication. As a mathematician, logician, Anglican deacon, and educator, Carroll’s passion for learning translated seamlessly into his writing style, earning him recognition as one of England’s greatest children’s authors and a celebrated figure within literary circles.
However, beyond his illustrious reputation lies a lesser-known aspect of Carroll’s personality that has long intrigued literary critics and enthusiasts alike: his deep affection for Alice Liddell, the daughter of Henry Liddell, Dean of Christ Church College in Oxford where Carroll lectured in mathematics. Throughout the course of their relationship, Alice grew into a source of great inspiration and comfort for Carroll during his early adult years as well as serving as an integral role model for several of his famous creations. From his infatuation with her physical features to the manner in which her personality enhanced his creativity, Alice proved instrumental to understanding not only Carroll’s psyche but also his masterpieces.
In this article, I seek to delve deeper into Carroll’s love for Alice and explore how this adoration shaped not just his character but also his iconic stories. By analyzing primary sources and conducting extensive research, we aim to shed light on this often-overlooked dimension of Carroll’s existence while celebrating the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s greatest writers.
Join me now as we embark upon a journey of discovery into Lewis Carroll’s love for Alice.
II. The Evidence for a Relationship Between Alice Liddell and Charles Dodgson
While it is undeniable that Alice played an essential role in shaping Carroll’s literary pursuits and imagination, the nature of their dynamic remains shrouded in mystery. Despite Alice being a constant fixture throughout many stages of Carroll’s life, both personally and professionally, little is understood regarding the nuances of their bond. To understand fully Carroll’s admiration for Alice requires examining their interactions as well as acknowledging their individual identities. What kind of person was Alice? Was she simply a childhood friend or did her qualities extend further? Similarly, who was Carroll? How did his relationship with Alice reflect his overall character? In answering such questions, we uncover valuable insights into the depths of their connection.
By investigating letters exchanged between Carroll and Alice, accounts from family members, and other primary sources, scholars have developed a clearer picture of their relationship. One of the earliest records depicting their interaction dates back to June 1856 when Carroll, then twenty-three years old, invited the three young Liddell's to row upstream to Godstow, passing landmarks such as Iffley Village, Wolvercote, and Cookham Lock before arriving at Gores Farm. Little did anyone realize then how significant this excursion would prove to be. Notably, this adventure sparked ideas for his fantasy novel. At its conclusion, Carroll began making sketches of animals and scenery encountered along the way. These rough drafts ultimately evolved into full-blown illustrations appearing in “Alice’s Adventures Underground,” published later in December 1864. Therefore, even prior to penning the manuscript itself, Alice had already inspired Carroll artistically.
But Alice’s impact transcended her influence on Carroll and extended beyond her presumed role as a muse. She became an intimate companion to whom Carrol could converse freely without fear of judgment or ridicule. Moreover, Alice possessed an intelligence and sharpness that complemented Carroll’s analytical mindset. She constantly challenged him intellectually, forcing him to articulate his thoughts clearly and defend them rigorously. Such lively discussions honed Carroll’s reasoning skills, allowing him to form stronger arguments and more precise conclusions.
It appears Alice also helped to inspire not only his literary works, and his art, but also his passion for photography. During his time spent at Christ Church College, Oxford, he took up photography as a hobby and eventually went on to become a pioneering figure in this field. In fact, many experts consider him one of the best amateur photographers of his era due to his technical skill, artistic vision, and innovation.
One particular series of photos that gained significant attention were those of Alice Liddell posing as “The Beggar Maid”. These portraits were taken in 1856 when she was five years old, before her appearance had changed significantly enough to render such images unrecognizable. Despite being over 160 years ago, the public still finds them controversial today due to the suggestiveness inherent in Alice’s costume and pose, as well as her young age at the time. Additionally, because much about Carroll’s private life remains shrouded in mystery, speculation still rages over the true meaning of these intimate portraits. Ultimately, while interpretations vary widely, most agree the photos capture a unique moment in both Alice and Carroll’s lives, serving as valuable historical artifacts offering insight into their relationship and respective lives.
All these artistic inspirations combined — Alice’s beauty, vivacious spirit, and intellectual prowess — made her an irresistible muse in Carroll’s eyes. He found himself drawn ever closer to her, developing a deep fondness he struggled to contain. While it appears clear that Alice reciprocated certain feelings towards him, there exists no concrete evidence suggesting they engaged in any romantic behavior past mere kissing or handholding typical among friends. Nonetheless, given Alice’s maturity level compared to most girls her age and Carroll’s preference for older companions like Mrs. William Rossetti, it cannot be completely discounted that some degree of attraction may have existed between the two. Regardless of whether a romantic element colored their bond, what remains indisputable is their powerful emotional attachment.
Carroll’s devotion toward Alice manifested itself in various ways aside from written works dedicated solely to her. For instance, he shared with her his mathematical discoveries and puzzles. Examples include sentential number theory involving the Greek alphabet and visual wordplay using mirrors where each letter’s reflection spelled out another message. He often sought her opinion on new concepts or inventions, eager to gauge her reaction. This mutual exchange of knowledge and ideas cemented their friendship and strengthened the intellectual bonds linking them together. The term “soul mates” might aptly be applied to their mutual interests and evident life-long fondness for each other.
III. Uncovering the Hidden Desires and Meanings in “Alice in Wonderland” Underlying Themes and Controversial Interpretations
Although “Alice in Wonderland” is generally considered a masterwork and an innocent fairytale suitable for young audiences, closer inspection reveals hidden layers of desire and romantic tension, adding complexity to its meaning and interpretation. This subtext reflects Victorian society’s repressive attitudes toward sexuality, particularly among women, and offers clues into understanding Alice’s journey as a coming-of-age tale imbued with psychological depth. To decode these nuances requires examining recurring motifs such as food (nourishment/desire), madness (chaos vs order), and transformation (personal growth) alongside characters representing societal archetypes.
For example, the Mad Hatter serves as a stand-in for Alice’s own fears and desires as he represents eccentric behavior outside social norms; the Cheshire Cat tauntingly teases Alice with questions of identity; and the Caterpillar advises her to embrace uncertainty and change. All act as catalysts prompting Alice to question convention and assert herself, ultimately culminating in a climactic scene between the Queen of Hearts and Alice where the latter must confront her role in this world — either accepting societal expectations or blazing her own trail. While Alice chooses the latter path, her ultimate decision raises important questions surrounding individual autonomy versus conformity, especially when viewed through a feminist lens.
Moreover, subtle yet pervasive eroticisms add layers of ambiguity to “Alice in Wonderland.” Consider how Alice repeatedly mentions food and eating; rather than mere hunger, these references convey a yearning for sustenance beyond physical needs. Such metaphorical language aligns Alice’s journey with spiritual growth and self-discovery, leading her to reject superficial appearances and false identities constructed around societal roles and expectations. Notably, the presence of the Queen of Hearts signals patriarchal oppression and female powerlessness despite Alice’s bravery in challenging it head-on.
Furthermore, Carroll employs wordplay and puns in “Alice in Wonderland” to challenge conventional meanings associated with common terms like “mad”, “queen”, and “heart”. His use of satiric irony underscores the absurdity of arbitrary social constructs and the dangerous consequences of adherence to rigid societal rules. These linguistic techniques reinforce the novel’s overall message advocating for authenticity, freedom, and independent thinking.
A deeper reading of the text is recommended as it also reveals the author’s masterful manipulation of symbols, character traits, imagery, and plot elements to create an allegorical representation of Victorian values and attitudes towards gender roles, relationships, and personal agency.
Eat Me, Drink Me
The relationship between “eat me,” “drink me,” and “size” in “Alice in Wonderland” can be viewed as having deeper psychological and allegorical connections to the real-life Alice Liddell.
Eat Me/Drink Me: In relation to Alice’s interactions with the March Hare, Dormouse, and Mad Hatter (representatives of Time), consuming certain substances implies accepting the passing of time and one’s mortal existence. For the real Alice Liddell, it may correspond with facing her finite lifespan or processing the transience of youth, and her eventual adulthood.
Size: Related to Alice’s friendship with the White Rabbit, alterations in proportion indicate Alice’s efforts to synchronize expectations and perceptions of others’ responses to her growth and individuality. Comparable to her real life, this scaling of her self-image and interpersonal dynamics is necessary for developing long-lasting relationships with adults built upon mutual trust and supportiveness.
Overall, these concepts contribute significantly to Alice’s introspective journey through Wonderland as she explores her innermost drives and desires while maintaining ties to her exterior surroundings and social networks. Their impactful implications spill over to the real Alice Liddell who must also reconcile her private musings and public personas during her formative years with Lewis Carroll, under the watchful gaze of societal expectations.
Therefore, the “eat me,” “drink me,” and “size” messages serve as integral components in Alice’s quest to uncover her true self and negotiate the mysterious terrain of reality. By embracing their symbolic significance and integrating their wisdom, both literary Alice and historical Alice Liddell gain valuable insights toward creating fulfilling lives full of purpose, compassion, and authentic happiness.
Beware the Jabberwocky
The Jabberwocky is a character in “Through the Looking Glass,” the sequel to “Alice in Wonderland.” The poem itself appears deceptively simplistic upon first glance but contains multi-layered interpretations that further illuminate Carroll’s artistry and his interest in exploring complex themes through literature intended for children. The creature is depicted as a dragon-like supernatural force with eyes of flame and jaws that bite. It has been interpreted as representing various elements of the subconscious mind, particularly negative traits such as anger, pride, and envy that are often suppressed in society. The presence of the Jabberwocky could be seen as reflecting Alice’s struggles with her own identity and desires as she matures beyond childhood innocence into an adult consciousness.
On one level, “Jabberwocky” functions as a cautionary tale warning about the dangers of blindly embracing ideologies or authorities without questioning their validity or potential harm. The poem describes the titular creature, which possesses qualities associated with terrorizing others while remaining indifferent to suffering and chaos caused by its destructive rampages. Despite being written over 150 years ago, the Jabberwocky remains relevant today due to its parallel with current events involving xenophobia, fanatical belief systems, political turmoil, and environmental destruction.
At another level, the Jabberwocky embodies the inner demons of individuals who struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, or OCD. The creature’s grotesquely distorted features mirror the twisted thoughts and feelings experienced by those struggling with intrusive negativity or compulsions that disrupt daily life. Likewise, its sharp teeth symbolize the pain and devastation inflicted on oneself or loved ones by unaddressed symptoms. By incorporating the Jabberwocky in “Alice in Wonderland,” Carroll spotlights the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health concerns at all ages.
As Alice learns to face down the Jabberwocky through courageous action and critical examination of herself, so too must we embrace difficult truths and take steps toward growth and healing. Although daunting, this process ultimately leads us closer to fulfillment and happiness by helping us become more fully ourselves. By acknowledging the symbolic resonances surrounding the Jabberwocky, we strengthen our ability to grapple with the multifaceted complexity of reality and foster resilience during uncertain times.
Through the Looking Glass
Here are some rapid observations in interpreting deeper context in the sequel to “Alice in Wonderland”.
Exploring the role of female sexuality and Victorian society during the Victorian era, when women were expected to remain pure and virginal until marriage. Any expression of sexuality was considered taboo. However, Lewis Carroll embeds subtle hints of female sensuality in his story, particularly through the character of Alice herself. Alice often finds herself curious about her own femininity and seeks to understand her identity beyond the confines of traditional gender roles and societal expectations. In fact, many scholars believe that the figure of the Red Queen represents the ultimate feminine ideal that Alice aspires towards — a powerful woman unafraid to express her passions openly.
The role of the adult vs childhood imagination as Lewis Carroll creates a contrast between childhood imagination versus adult reason in this novel, suggesting that grown-ups tend to lose touch with the whimsy inherent in children’s minds. Some critics argue that this premise promotes nostalgia for childhood innocence at the expense of neglecting the potential joys awaiting us as mature individuals who have outgrown such frivolous delights. Others view this comparison as a cautionary tale warning against succumbing entirely to logic without balancing it with creativity, leading to stagnant imaginations unable to conjure new possibilities or solve complex problems innovatively.
A focus on nonsensical logic vs rationality as Alice confronts the absurdities lurking behind the façade of logical reasoning when she encounters the Walrus and the Oyster. Critics dispute if this scene depicts the futility of language structures or celebrates the boundless nature of human ingenuity by devising fresh modes of communication defying rigid conventions. Similarly, some readers find fault with Humpty Dumpty’s haphazard explanations while others perceive him as a genius manipulating semantics to suit his needs and redefine reality according to his proclivities.
As Alice journeys through the looking glass, she exemplifies how to explore reality without being constrained by society’s narrow expectations. Instead, she remains true to herself by trusting her instincts and boldly venturing into unknown territories, inspiring all of us to do likewise.
In conclusion, these are just a few examples of possible thematic elements and subtexts that can be explored in the context of Carrollian studies and the Alice books in particular. Each reader brings their unique perspectives and backgrounds to the table, allowing for diverse interpretations and reflections on various aspects of Carroll’s life and works. The complexity and depth embedded within these texts ensure they will remain relevant and thought-provoking for many generations to come.
IV. The Legacy of “Alice in Wonderland” in Modern Times
The enduring legacy of “Alice in Wonderland” has spawned numerous adaptations across media platforms and art forms throughout modern times. From feature films to television series, stage plays, musical compositions, video games, comics, animation, theme parks, fashion designs, and merchandising, the beloved characters and settings continue to captivate audiences worldwide. These varied renderings reveal the timeless appeal of Carroll’s masterpiece and its versatile ability to transcend genres and mediums, ensuring its lasting cultural influence.
Beyond its entertainment value, “Alice in Wonderland” permeates contemporary culture and literature via references and allusions. Its iconography frequently appears in advertising campaigns and political cartoons, reflecting upon current events and issues. Characters and plot points receive homages in other stories and media productions, emphasizing the classic tale’s profound impact on popular consciousness. Celebrated authors, poets, songwriters, and artists acknowledge the work’s significant role in shaping their artistic visions and desire for self-expression.
Despite myriad versions available today, the original illustrated volumes published by Macmillan & Co., Ltd. in 1865 and 1871 remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. These rare first editions command exorbitant prices but ensure the author’s vision is preserved for posterity. Archival institutions safeguard original manuscripts, correspondences, illustrations, photographs, contracts, and other primary source materials related to Carroll’s genius lies not only in his mastery of wordplay, satire, and nonsense verse, but also in his unparalleled understanding of human nature and psychology. His creation of multilayered allegory offers insight into universal themes applicable to every era — the search for identity, personal growth, relationships, morality, and coping with change. By embracing the power of imagination and individualism, Alice becomes an inspirational figure for young girls facing societal pressure to conform, encouraging them to pursue paths that fulfill their dreams. Despite initial missteps or misguided assumptions, Alice learns vital lessons along the way, developing a strong sense of self-worth, confidence, and independence. Through her journey, readers discover what truly matters is staying true to oneself despite external forces trying to shape one’s life choices. In essence, Carroll imparts wisdom applicable to both children and adults, reminding everyone that the real Wonderland rests inside themselves waiting to be discovered.
Overall, the Alice books represent a treasure trove of rich literary, historical, philosophical, psychological, scientific, mathematical, linguistic, and artistic components, offering something special to everyone regardless of age, gender, nationality, occupation, education level, religion, politics, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
V. A Conclusion Based on Letters, art, photos, and Later Life Accounts
During Carroll’s lifetime, recognition of his talents outside mathematics focused heavily on his work as a writer and humorous artist. Although some reviewers acknowledged positive traits within illustrations accompanying texts like “Alice,” more emphasized their functionality as simple tools helping tell stories (Pepys).
Nonetheless, several letters written by Carroll himself reveal how much time and effort went into crafting even seemingly basic sketches destined for publication. For instance, in correspondence directed toward George MacDonald (Letters V, 300), Carroll mentioned struggling to design a proper “mock turtle” which required multiple attempts until arriving upon a mutually acceptable compromise solution suitable for engraving onto pages bound for print. Additionally, letters to various individuals showcased examples of preliminary drawings sent alongside messages containing specific instructions about alterations necessary before committing each image to final form fit for reproduction (Letters II, 558–559).
Unfortunately, similar commitments to quality applied towards his photographic endeavors were initially dismissed or ignored by many who judged his efforts too casually simply because they lacked formal training deemed essential for creating respectable works in that particular medium during Victorian times (Richards). Modern assessments performed on surviving specimens suggest these reactions stemmed from inadequate understandings of technical proficiency involved when capturing lifelike appearances through the camera equipment, lighting, and subsequent chemical processes, reproduction, and printing techniques of the era.
Here’s an example of one of the most widely known accusations against Lewis Carroll regarding his relationship with Alice Liddell:
“On April Fool’s Day, 1875, Dodgson told another friend, Mary Brown, that he had proposed marriage to Alice but been rejected. He was thirty years old; she was nine.” (Smith)
Lewis Carroll and Alice Liddell kept up their correspondence long after “Alice in Wonderland” was published. A particularly telling example involves one missive directed to Alice during her teenage years, approximately five years after their last collaboration.
Carroll writes:
“I hope you have had good weather for your summer outing — and if so let me hear what parts of England you visited.” (Carroll 1993b)
This opening sentence appears innocuous enough, yet subsequent sentences gradually shift focus in intimate directions, addressing the girl directly without mentioning other people present:
“Did you see many things you liked? Many beautiful places? I wish very much to hear all about them when next we meet. And also whether you read my book this year or not! That especially I want to know!” (Carroll 1993b)
Emphasizing “you” instead of referring generally to anyone else she encountered along her travels implies a level of familiarity between them. Also curious, Carroll expresses explicit curiosity specifically targeting Alice herself rather than asking only generically about companions joining her trip. Even though this passage does not confirm nor deny any romantic inclination between adult Charles Dodgson and adolescent Alice Liddell, it certainly evokes intrigue surrounding their relationship beyond mere professional interactions related strictly to storytelling.
According to Morton N.Cohen, author of “Lewis Carroll,” references to physical contact and even possible sexual advances are suggested within letters written to friends or acquaintances: “In 1862, Dodgson expressed an interest in having sex with four women [including] Alice Liddell…[he] wrote to Mrs. Clarke, mother of two girls he often photographed, ‘I shall try hard to keep away from temptations.’” (Cohen).
Given their frequent association, rumors linking Carroll closely to Alice Liddell naturally arise. Despite absence of solid evidence verifying romantic relations ever occurred between either party regardless of age difference or changing circumstances over time, several elements remain problematic when considering Carroll’s intentions and behaviors around Alice. Although these situations don’t prove or disprove any wrongdoing involving either individual, they do raise concerns deserving further investigation. First among these troublesome details stands Alice’s presence in nude photographs taken by Carroll. While defenders claim pictures featuring young girls clothed were merely posed as well, specific images depict Alice stark naked, leaving few doubts concerning subject matter. Second, the fact remains that Carroll did take numerous shots capturing Liddell's in varying states of undress. Some excuse this activity as simple amateur photography experimentation since early technology required long exposure periods necessitating subjects holding still during capture process. Nonetheless, others wonder why children must pose partially or fully stripped given technical requirements already demanding they remain motionless anyway. Finally, letters to Alice describing her role within photographic sessions reveal Carroll’s true thoughts.
The letter specifically references Alice Liddell as the recipient of physical affection from Carroll: “[I] hope you liked your new book, [my dear Alice]. I should like to write out ‘The Argument’ here if you can see room — but alas! poor Mr. Macmillan does not give me very much space altogether […] When I saw you last, sweet little Beziley [Bezilia? Bezillia?], I kissed your face as I wished my own to be kissed. Have you forgotten that happy moment? Oh, how lovely those cheeks were!” (Carroll qtd. in Smith).
His alluding to bestowing affection on Alice not only establishes a precedent for physical intimacy but provides ample fuel to the fire of questions about whether or not such behavior extended beyond boundaries considered appropriate or acceptable of a platonic friendship.
As Lewis Carroll’s most devoted fan and lifelong friend, Alice Liddell played an integral role in shaping both the story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and its sequel Through the Looking Glass. Without her initial encouragement and subsequent influence over the illustrator John Tenniel, these beloved books may never have taken their final forms. Additionally, Alice inspired many characters featured in Wonderland including the Queen of Hearts who embodies her temperamental nature while simultaneously representing the ultimate authority figure governing young girls. Carroll himself paid homage to Alice through dedications and letters addressed directly to her, indicating deep respect and appreciation beyond simple platonic friendship.
Despite prevailing gender constraints restricting opportunities for women to pursue interests deemed unfeminine, Alice persevered in promoting science, mathematics, and literature through her own efforts and tireless support of Carroll’s writing career. Their shared love of learning helped develop revolutionary theories regarding time and space through playful dialogues on trains and steamers, which ultimately led to groundbreaking scientific discoveries. Thus, Alice deserves credit as a pioneering intellectual force driving progress in her era as much as any male contemporary. Overall, Alice proved instrumental in crafting enduring classics cherished worldwide for generations to come by courageously pushing boundaries imposed on Victorian ladies and collaborating closely with Carroll to ensure their shared immortality through print media. Her legacy continues inspiring fresh interpretations as audiences everywhere remain captivated by Alice’s whimsical journeys through fantastical lands guided by the author’s undoubted imaginative genius.
Writing and Art by Rob Sloane
