Lewis Carroll

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Lewis Carroll Self Portrait 1856 circa

Lewis Carroll 1863

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Alice par John Tenniel 30

Jabberwocky

Alice Liddell 2

Lewis Carroll (27 January 1832 – 14 January 1898) was the pen name of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, a British writer, mathematician, logician, Anglican deacon, and photographer. His most famous writings are Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and its sequel Through the Looking-Glass, which are celebrated for their fantastical narratives, imaginative characters, and profound influence on both children's and adult literature. Carroll's work in the field of literary nonsense has made his writings widely popular across generations, with his creations such as the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts becoming cultural icons.

Early Life

Charles Lutwidge Dodgson was born in Daresbury, Cheshire, England, to a conservative high-church Anglican family. From a young age, Dodgson exhibited a talent for writing and storytelling. He attended Rugby School and later went on to study at Christ Church, Oxford. He remained at Christ Church after completing his degree, teaching mathematics and writing on various subjects, including logic, linear algebra, and the theory of voting.

Literary Career

Carroll's literary career began with the publication of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland in 1865, a work that was inspired by a boating trip with Alice Liddell and her sisters. The success of this book was followed by Through the Looking-Glass in 1871. Both books were published under his pseudonym, Lewis Carroll, a name derived by playing with his real name. Carroll's writing was characterized by his wit, word play, and the use of logic, some of which was influenced by his mathematical background.

Mathematical Work

In addition to his literary achievements, Carroll was a respected mathematician. He published several works under his real name, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, that dealt with various mathematical topics, including logic, geometry, and algebra. His contributions to the field of logic, in particular, were notable for their use of sophisticated puzzles and problems to explain complex concepts.

Photography

Carroll was also an accomplished photographer, known for his portraits of children and notable figures of his time. His interest in photography began in the early 1850s, and over the next twenty-five years, he created a substantial body of work that offers a fascinating insight into the Victorian era.

Legacy

Lewis Carroll's influence on literature, especially the genre of fantasy, is profound. His works have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be enjoyed by readers around the world. The whimsical world he created in the Alice books has inspired countless adaptations, including films, plays, and artworks. Carroll's innovative use of language, narrative structure, and character creation has made his work a critical study in the field of English literature.

Controversies

Carroll's relationships with young girls have been the subject of much speculation and controversy. While some biographers argue that his interest was entirely innocent, others suggest it may have had an undercurrent of Victorian-era sensibilities that are considered inappropriate by today's standards. However, there is no conclusive evidence to support these claims, and Carroll's legacy as a writer and mathematician remains largely untarnished.

Conclusion

Lewis Carroll remains one of the most innovative and imaginative writers in the English language. His ability to blend elements of fantasy, logic, and wordplay has created a unique literary style that continues to captivate and intrigue readers and scholars alike. His contributions to mathematics and photography also demonstrate his diverse talents and interests, making him a multifaceted figure in Victorian culture.