Was Lewis Carroll Really Celibate? The Truth Behind His Unmarried Life

Many people are curious about the personal life of the renowned author of Through the Looking-Glass and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. A common misconception is that Lewis Carroll was celibate throughout his life and never married. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind his decision to remain unmarried and the realities of his personal life.

Leviathan of Oxford

For many aspiring lecturers and professors, a marriage was seen as a distraction from their academic duties. However, in the mid-19th century, such a lifestyle would often hinder a person's career progression. To combat this, Lewis Carroll made a significant decision that would shape his life: taking a vow of celibacy at Oxford.

Carroll's vow was taken in the mid-1850s when he was a lecturer in Mathematics at Christ Church, Oxford. The practice of professing celibacy at Oxford was common among certain positions, particularly teaching roles. By taking this vow, Carroll ensured that he could fully dedicate himself to his job without any personal commitments getting in the way. This practice was not unheard of and was seen as a means to better focus on one's academic pursuits.

The Relaxation of Rules and Carroll's Decision

However, as time went on and Carroll reached a more senior position, things began to change. The rules about taking a vow of celibacy gradually relaxed, allowing more professors to marry without the consequences once felt in previous decades. Instead of breaking his vow, Carroll chose to stick with his original decision, a decision that was largely driven by personal preference rather than any external pressure or obligation.

Throughout his life, Carroll was known for his gentleness, kindness, and a deep affection for all living creatures. His dedication to his vocation and his preference for a solitary life dedicated to his passions were the reasons for his lifelong choice. Even later in his life, when he had also been ordained as a deacon in the Anglican Church, Carroll remained single, adhering to the vow he had made in his youth.

An Enigma of a Man

Despite his vow and later decisions, Carroll’s life was not without its personal complexities. He was known to have spent much time with children, often cultivating close, child-like friendships with those he interacted with. Perhaps the most famous person he formed such a relationship with was Alice Liddell, a young girl who inspired much of his best-known work. These interactions sometimes led people to question his demeanor, presenting him as an eccentric figure or a man detached from the realities of married life.

However, it is important to note that Carroll was never superficially celibate; rather, he chose to lead a life that balanced his obligations as a scholar and his personal values. His decision to remain unmarried was a deeply considered one, one that allowed him the freedom to explore his unique passions and talents fully.

The Legacy of Lewis Carroll

Today, Lewis Carroll is celebrated for his remarkable contribution to literature, both for children and adults. His work continues to captivate readers around the world, reminding us of the importance of imagination and creativity. While the reason behind his celibacy may seem unusual to our modern sensibilities, it is a testament to the fact that personal choices and decisions can shape an individual's life profoundly.

Conclusion

So, was Lewis Carroll really celibate, and did he never marry? The simple answer is that he took a vow of celibacy early in his career but decided to stay unmarried for personal reasons. Carroll's life was marked by his dedication to his vocation and his unique relationship with children, leading to lasting legacies that continue to inspire and enchant us today.