The Use of Logic and Absurdity in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass: Exploring How Carroll Subverts Conventional Logic and Expectations

One of the most striking features of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass is Lewis Carroll's use of logic and absurdity. Carroll, a logician himself, deliberately subverts traditional logic, creating a world where nonsensical rules govern the actions of its inhabitants. The result is a playful yet profound commentary on the limitations of rigid logical thinking.

In Wonderland, Alice encounters characters like the Cheshire Cat and the Caterpillar, who present paradoxical statements that challenge her understanding of reality. The logic that governs Wonderland is often contradictory, such as when the Queen orders executions for people who have not committed crimes. Similarly, in Through the Looking-Glass, Carroll introduces the concept of mirror logic, where everything is reversed, further highlighting the absurdity of conventional reasoning.

Through this subversion of logic, Carroll encourages readers to embrace the absurd and question the limitations of established norms. The playful use of illogical scenarios invites both children and adults to think creatively, challenging our assumptions about the world around us.