In “The Life and Letters of Lewis Carroll (Rev. C. L. Dodgson)," Stuart Dodgson Collingwood presents a meticulously crafted biography that intricately weaves together personal correspondence and literary analysis. The text offers a window into the eccentric life of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known as Lewis Carroll, through a rich tapestry of letters, revealing not only the man behind the Alice stories but also the Victorian milieu that shaped his creative imagination. Collingwood'Äôs prose, marked by a reverent tone, provides a fascinating exploration of Carroll's dual existence as a mathematician and a master of whimsical narrative, set against the backdrop of the shifting cultural landscape of 19th-century England. As the nephew of Lewis Carroll, Stuart Dodgson Collingwood possessed unique access to family documents and a deep emotional investment in his subject. His academic background as a writer and a tutorial fellow at St. John'Äôs College, Oxford, endowed him with the analytical skills necessary to balance biographical fidelity with literary critique. This personal connection lends authenticity and affection to the narrative, providing readers with insights into Carroll'Äôs complexities, social interactions, and psychological struggles. This biography is an essential read for those who wish to understand the enigmatic figure of Lewis Carroll beyond his celebrated literary works. It appeals not only to fans of Carroll but also to scholars and casual readers alike, offering a nuanced perspective on one of literature's most enduring figures and inviting readers to engage with the deeper layers of his genius.
