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Lot #493
Charles L. Dodgson

Alice in Wonderland’s author proposes teaching logic to girls

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Alice in Wonderland’s author proposes teaching logic to girls

Beloved British author of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, better known by his pen name, Lewis Carroll (1832-1898). ALS signed “C. L. Dodgson,” one page, 7 x 4.25, May 3, 1896. Letter to Miss Maitland. In full: “I am thinking of forming a class of girls from the Halls (& perhaps some others of about the same age), to whom I would, if I can find a suitable room for the purpose, give a course of 6 lectures, one a week, on my ‘Symbolic Logic.’ If any of yours would like to join it, I would be glad to have their names, & with each name, a list of all the hours, in a week, which would suit her.” After his signature, Dodgson adds “What is the date of the foundation of your Hall?” A central vertical fold, a mild diagonal crease, and some scattered light toning and faint foxing, otherwise fine condition.

As a mathematical logician, Dodgson was interested in increasing understanding by treating it as a game. In 1896, he published Symbolic Logic Part I, the same work referenced in this correspondence, which presented a way of visually representing propositions via a diagram. While his methods have been largely forgotten, one of the games he devised outside of logic included an early version of what is now known as Scrabble. Unique correspondence referencing one of Dodgson’s forgotten mathematical contributions. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

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  • Dates: #363 - Ended November 10, 2010





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