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Stuart Dodgson Collingwood (1870-1937) was an English clergyman, schoolmaster, and author, most notably recognized for his biographical work on his uncle, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known by his pen name, Lewis Carroll. Collingwood's tribute to the legendary writer of 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' is encapsulated in his publication 'The Life and Letters of Lewis Carroll: The Original Scandalous Biography by Carroll's nephew' (1898). This comprehensive biography, compiled from family documents and correspondence, provides an intimate portrait of the mathematician, photographer, and writer, giving unique insights into Carroll's personal and professional life.
Collingwood's literary style is marked by a Victorian earnestness, filled with detail and a respectful yet candid examination of his subject's life. He adeptly paints a picture of Lewis Carroll as a multidimensional figure, juxtaposing the author's literary achievements with the complexities of his personality. While scholarly in his approach, Collingwood sometimes draws criticism for the perceived sanitization of certain aspects of Carroll's life, which has later prompted further scrutiny and alternative interpretations by modern scholars. Nevertheless, Collingwood's biography remains a significant early work in the realm of Carrollian studies, paving the way for future research and analysis of the Victorian author's life and legacy. |