remonstrance
Remonstrance and Religious Subtext in The Hunting of the Snark
Remonstrance is a religious term referring to a forceful protest or objection, often expressed through a formal document outlining grievances or disagreements. A notable example is the 1610 Remonstrance by the Arminians of the Dutch Reformed Church, which presented theological objections to strict Calvinist doctrine.
The sequence of Rule 42 followed by the use of remonstrance suggests a possible religious subtext in Carroll’s poem. If Carroll was subtly referencing the 42 Articles—a foundational Protestant doctrine—then remonstrance could serve to reinforce themes of theological debate and doctrinal resistance.
Historically, the term remonstrance was strongly associated with the 1610 Remonstrants, a group of Dutch theologians who challenged Calvinist teachings. If Carroll was aware of this context, he might have deliberately embedded theological wordplay into his nonsense poem—perhaps symbolizing rebellion against rigid structures, much like the Bellman’s chaotic authority.
Of course, ambiguity was central to Carroll’s style, leaving open the possibility that these connections were intentionally left to reader interpretation.
