The Jabberwocky

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers around the concept of cacophony using Lewis Carroll’s poem “The Jabberwocky” as a reference point. The activity is designed to enhance students’ literary analysis skills, particularly in recognizing and understanding the use of cacophony as a poetic device. The first question prompts students to comb through Carroll’s whimsical and nonsensical verses to identify instances of cacophony—where the sound of the words when read aloud might produce a jarring, harsh, or discordant effect.

In the second paragraph of the worksheet, students are encouraged to reflect on the purpose of these cacophonous elements. They must consider how the sound of the words complements the poem’s mood and setting, and why Carroll might have chosen such a dissonant auditory landscape for his narrative. This thoughtful exercise not only deepens the student’s appreciation for the poet’s craft but also invites them to ponder the impact of sound on the reading experience. By analyzing “The Jabberwocky,” learners get a practical example of how cacophony can be used to immerse readers in the poem’s fantastical and ominous atmosphere.