The Journey Through the Looking Glass: Why Lewis Carroll Chose This Title

Through the Looking Glass, published in 1871, is a beloved and imaginative novel that has captivated readers for generations. While the title “Through the Looking Glass” may seem straightforward, it actually holds a deeper meaning that reflects the narrative journey and the themes of the book. Let's explore why Lewis Carroll chose this title and the significance behind it.

Origins and Inspiration

Through the Looking Glass was originally conceived as an extension of the earlier Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. In the early 1860s, Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) was assisting his friend, mathematician Henry Liddell, in teaching his three daughters, including Alice. As a way to make learning chess more enjoyable, Carroll would devise stories to illustrate the rules and moves of the game to the young girls. It was during these sessions that the idea for a story beyond Wonderland was born. The original manuscript was titled “A Nice Alice,” but after some revisions, it eventually became the famous “Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There” in 1871. The title alludes to the world Alice enters through a mirror, symbolizing a new and unique perspective.

Interpretation of the Title

When Carroll titled his book, “Through the Looking-Glass,” he intentionally created a sense of disorientation and inversion. The looking glass, or mirror, is a fundamental object in the story that serves as a portal, much like the rabbit hole in Wonderland. However, whereas Wonderland is fantastical and underground, the world ‘Through the Looking-Glass’ is a mirrored and upside-down reflection. This inversion becomes a central theme in the narrative, where time seems to move backward, and players of chess take on different roles, each representing a chess piece. The title “Through the Looking-Glass” is more than just a reference to the physical act of passing through a mirror; it symbolizes a journey from one state of being to another. The affinity of the title lies in its ability to hint at the transformative experience Alice undergoes, as well as the notion of an alternative perspective on life.

Themes and Symbolism

The title “Through the Looking-Glass” is not the only reflection of Carroll's imaginative world. Throughout the narrative, Alice encounters symbols, puzzles, and riddles, all of which are meant to challenge conventional thinking and showcase the whimsical nature of the imagination. This is exemplified in the chess-themed games that Alice plays, which serve as a metaphor for her journey of growth and self-discovery. Alice’s journey through the looking glass is a critique of Victorian society, as well as a celebration of it. It questions the rigid structure and expectations of the time, while simultaneously honoring the beauty and mystery of the unknown. The looking glass itself, as a medium, serves as a mirror not only reflecting the world inside but also the world beyond, revealing truths and paradoxes that challenge the reader to reconsider their own perceptions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the title “Through the Looking-Glass” encapsulates the essence of Lewis Carroll’s literary masterpiece. It is a journey of transformation, a metaphor for life’s unexpected turns, and a testament to the power of imagination. The title’s double meaning, referring both to a physical journey through a glass and a metaphorical journey through altered perspectives, makes it a fitting and enduring legacy of Carroll’s creative genius.

Explore More

Interested in learning more about Alice's adventures? Dive deeper into the metaphors, symbols, and themes in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Explore the imaginative and fantastical world of these timeless tales, and discover how Lewis Carroll transformed the way we experience literature and imagination. For those looking to explore more of Carroll’s works, the complete collection is available, including his other lesser-known but equally delightful works. Enjoy the journey through the looking glass and beyond!

Learn More About Lewis Carroll