Topics for Discussion
1. Alice nearly drowns in her own tears. What could Carroll be implying about self-pity with this imagery?
2. Explore the meaning of the term "caucus" and propose an ironic interpretation of the "Caucus Race."
3. What might be the significance of the White Rabbit calling Alice "Mary Ann"? Could there be another girl in Wonderland who resembles Alice?
4. Why does Alice rush to complete the White Rabbit's task of fetching another pair of gloves and a fan, even though she has no idea where to go?
5. What does Alice's reaction to the daunting situation with the giant puppy reveal about her character?
6. Why is the White Rabbit so preoccupied with the time?
7. Why is the Duchess's treatment of her baby so shocking? What could be the meaning behind the Duchess calling her baby a pig and the baby later transforming into a pig?
8. The Mad Hatter's tea party is filled with riddles and puns that hinder Alice from having any genuine communication. Discuss the nature of puns and riddles. Do these forms of expression render meaningful conversation impossible?
9. What might the Mock Turtle mean when he says he was once a real turtle and then mentions that he went to school where he learned "the different branches of Arithmetic: Ambition, Distraction, Uglification, and Derision"?
10. Despite often feeling frustrated and scared in her dream, Alice recalls it as "a wonderful dream." Why do you think this is the case?
11. Although most characters in Wonderland take themselves seriously, and Alice appears to do the same, they are actually quite humorous. Why is this?
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