The Age and Development of Alice in Wonderland: A Critical Analysis

Introduction

The iconic story of Alice in Wonderland has been a beloved classic for generations, captivating readers with its whimsical characters and intricate world. However, the enigmatic age and development of the titular character Alice have long been the subject of debate among literary analysts and enthusiasts.

Alice's Age: A Deeper Dive

The age of Alice in Alice in Wonderland has been the subject of much speculation. The 1984 film adaptation of Dream Child presents Alice as a young woman, hinting at a much older age. Some critics argue that she is not seven, but closer to twelve, based on her responses and maturity level. This raises several intriguing questions: What are the markers of Alice's age in the story? And how do her characterizations differ from those of a typical seven-year-old?

Age-Related Behaviors and Dialogue

Alice's responses throughout the story suggest a level of maturity vastly beyond a seven-year-old. For instance, her reflections on the tempo of the world spinning more quickly, her discretionary reaction to The Mad Hatter's comment on her hair needing cutting, and her sophisticated understanding of school subjects and boarding school life indicate a more mature perspective.

Superficial Indicators and Interpretations

Some key indicators that challenge the notion of Alice being merely a seven-year-old include her understanding of more advanced vocabulary and subjects. For example, the history lesson given by her sister uses terms and details that suggest a more mature, perhaps even older, audience. Additionally, Alice's responses to the Mock Turtle's talk about 'washing' reveal a deep, perhaps unsettling, understanding of certain aspects of adult life.

Biographical Context and Literary Analysis

Historical records also provide clues. The specific golden afternoon documented as July 1862 refers to a boat trip on the Isis. Alice, born in 1852, was therefore just ten years old at the time. It is plausible that Charles Dodgson, the author, would have wanted to relate his stories to the actual Alice at ten, as this Alice was the one who demanded the stories be written, for her level of understanding and enjoyment.

Mature Themes and References

By the time of the publication of the Looking Glass book in 1871, Alice had grown into a young woman. A significant marker here is that Charles Dodgson, the author, was no longer actively involved with Alice, and the narrative returned to the period when he was closer to Alice's age, about seven. This is a fascinating juxtaposition, as Dodgson likely had the memories of a seven-year-old Alice, whose youth he cherished, juxtaposed with his stricken position as an older man, no longer considered a threat to Alice's burgeoning womanhood.

Conclusion

The age of Alice in Alice in Wonderland is a complex issue that reveals both the author's intentions and the ways in which societal norms have evolved. While the official age of seven highlighted in the story sets Alice within a certain cultural and narrative framework, her responses and behaviors suggest a more advanced maturity. By examining the historical context and the biographical details of Alice's life, we can gain a deeper understanding of the character's evolving nature and the author's intentions.