Curiouser And Curiouser Quote Alice In Wonderland
“Curiouser and curiouser!” This is a famous quote from the beloved children’s story, Alice in Wonderland. It’s a phrase that has become synonymous with the world of Alice and her adventures in Wonderland. But what does it mean? And why has it become such an iconic phrase?
The Origins of the Phrase
The phrase “Curiouser and curiouser” is first spoken by Alice herself in Chapter 2 of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alice is growing increasingly frustrated with the strange world she has found herself in and the bizarre characters she encounters. She first utters the phrase when she sees a bottle with a label that says “Drink me”. She is curious about what will happen if she drinks it, but also wary of the consequences.
The phrase is also used later in the story, by the Cheshire Cat, when Alice asks him which way she should go. The cat’s cryptic response is “That depends a good deal on where you want to get to”. Alice responds, “I don’t much care where--” to which the cat interrupts her with “Then it doesn’t matter which way you go. ‘Curiouser and curiouser!’”
What Does the Phrase Mean?
The phrase “Curiouser and curiouser” has come to mean something strange, unusual, or unexpected. It’s often used to describe a situation that is getting more confusing or complex, or to express surprise at something that is happening.
But in the context of Alice in Wonderland, the phrase takes on a deeper meaning. Alice is constantly questioning the world around her and trying to make sense of it. The phrase “Curiouser and curiouser” reflects her growing sense of wonder and curiosity about the strange and magical world she has found herself in.
The Legacy of the Phrase
“Curiouser and curiouser” has become one of the most famous phrases from Alice in Wonderland, and has been referenced in countless adaptations and retellings of the story. It has also entered popular culture and is often used in everyday language to express surprise or confusion.
The phrase has also been used in other works of literature, such as Neil Gaiman’s Coraline, where the character Coraline says “Curiouser and curiouser” as she explores the strange world of the Other Mother.
Conclusion
The phrase “Curiouser and curiouser” is a powerful and evocative phrase that has become synonymous with the world of Alice in Wonderland. It reflects Alice’s sense of wonder and curiosity about the strange and magical world she has found herself in, and has become a part of popular culture. Whether you’re a fan of Alice in Wonderland or not, there’s no denying the impact and legacy of this iconic phrase.
