What is the moral lesson in Jabberwocky?

Answered by Edward Huber

The moral lesson in Jabberwocky is centered around the theme of “Good vs. Evil.” The poem, although filled with nonsensical words and phrases, presents a clear distinction between the heroic actions of the protagonist and the menacing presence of the Jabberwocky.

The poem begins by setting the scene of a dangerous creature, the Jabberwocky, lurking in the Tulgey Wood. This creature is described as “vorpal” and “frumious,” instilling a sense of fear and evil. The hero of the poem, a young boy, is warned about the Jabberwocky’s presence and is tasked with slaying the beast.

In order to defeat the Jabberwocky, the young boy arms himself with a sword and sets off on his quest. The poem describes his journey through the Tulgey Wood, filled with strange creatures and bizarre landscapes. Despite the oddity of his surroundings, the boy remains focused on his mission to vanquish the Jabberwocky.

The boy encounters the Jabberwocky itself, and a fierce battle ensues. The poem describes their clash in vivid and nonsensical language, painting a picture of a high-stakes confrontation between good and evil. In the end, the boy emerges victorious, slaying the Jabberwocky and returning home triumphant.

The moral lesson of Jabberwocky lies in the bravery and determination of the young boy. Despite facing an unknown and intimidating foe, he does not shy away from his duty. His resolve to confront and defeat the Jabberwocky serves as a lesson in courage and the importance of standing up against evil.

Furthermore, the poem highlights the power of language and storytelling. Lewis Carroll’s use of invented words and whimsical descriptions creates a unique and captivating world. Through this linguistic creativity, Carroll demonstrates the ability of words to inspire and engage readers, even in the absence of clear meaning. This can be seen as a reminder of the importance of imagination and creativity in our lives.

In my personal experience, I have found the moral lesson of “Good vs. Evil” to be a timeless and universal theme that resonates with people of all ages. It serves as a reminder of the constant struggle we face in navigating the complexities of life and making choices that align with our values.

The moral lesson in Jabberwocky emphasizes the importance of bravery, determination, and the power of language. It encourages readers to confront their fears, stand up against evil, and embrace the imaginative and creative aspects of life.