Lewis Carroll Analysis is an analytical approach that examines the life, works and beliefs of the 19th-century English author, Lewis Carroll By studying the connections between Carroll's life, his works and his views of the world, many scholars and enthusiasts have developed a greater understanding and appreciation of the author responsible for Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and other literary classics. Lewis Carroll Analysis can be used to explore a variety of topics, including the influence of religion, science, literature and philosophy on Carroll's writing and thought.
The Influence of Religion. Religion was an important part of Victorian England and Lewis Carroll was no exception. His works often reflect his Christian beliefs, including the presence of Christian symbols in some of his most renowned works. In Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, for example, Alice encounters several Old Testament figures, such as the White King and Queen and a representation of the Last Judgment. Through such references, Carroll may have been attempting to emphasize the importance of faith and morality in society. Similarly, in Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There, Carroll incorporates elements of medieval Christian allegory in his narrative, using the chessboard as an analogue for the spiritual realm.
The Influence of Science. In addition to religion, Lewis Carroll was also deeply interested in science and mathematics. This can be evidenced in his use of logical visual puzzles and diagrams, such as in "What the Tortoise Said to Achilles," a mathematical dialogue between two characters. Carroll was also fascinated with the idea of infinity and explored this concept in many of his works. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, for instance, contain numerous references to infinity, most notably in the Crooked Lane, which, despite being infinite, leads to the same point.
The Influence of Literature. Literature was a major source of inspiration for Lewis Carroll and his works often feature allusions to other books and authors. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, for example, includes several parodies of Victorian novels and fairy tales. Similarly, Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There contains an extended parody of John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress. Such references reveal Carroll's interest in the literary traditions of both England and the United States, and may provide insights into his views on literary conventions and trends.
The Influence of Philosophy. Finally, Lewis Carroll was deeply informed by philosophy, which is evident in the philosophical musings of his most famous characters. The Cheshire Cat, for instance, is renowned for its enigmatic statements that call into question concepts of truth, reality, and morality. Carroll himself was heavily influenced by the British philosopher John Stuart Mill, as is evidenced by several of his works, including "What the Tortoise Said to Achilles" and "The Hunting of the Snark."
In conclusion, Lewis Carroll Analysis provides a unique way to explore the life, works and beliefs of the renowned 19th-century author. By examining the influence of religion, science, literature and philosophy on Carroll's writing, scholars and enthusiasts can gain a greater understanding of the author and his works.