Jabberwocky Symbols, Allegory and Motifs

Jabberwocky Symbols, Allegory and Motifs

The Jabberwocky

In this poem, the Jabberwocky symbolizes threat, danger, and evil. The protagonist is warned by his father to "beware" this formidable creature, due to his dangerous claws and teeth. However, using his vorpal sword, the protagonist kills the Jabberwocky and returns with his head. The killing of the Jabberwocky symbolizes the destruction of evil and the victory of goodness.

The Jabberwocky's head

The Jabberwocky's head represents the victory of the protagonist, and the triumph of good over evil. The boy takes the Jabberwocky's head back to his father as a symbol of his victory. The taking of the head is also an allusion to various cultural traditions where the taking of a head during hunting represents victory. For example, hunters traditionally keep deer and moose heads a symbol of their hunting prowess.

The vorpal blade

The vorpal blade is a key symbol in this text, representing the power of the boy over the Jabberwocky. In a sense, the blade also represents the triumph of good over evil and is crucial in the boy winning the battle. During the fight, the vorpal blade is personified, and it seems as though the blade itself is the one fighting.

"Come to my arms"

This is what the father says to his son once he has defeated the Jabberwocky. This phrase symbolizes the father's pride and acceptance of his son, who has used his courage to defeat the Jabberwocky.

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