The story begins with Alice falling down a rabbit hole, which serves as a metaphor for embarking on a journey into the unknown. This symbolizes curiosity and the willingness to explore new possibilities. Alice’s descent into the rabbit hole represents her stepping out of her comfort zone and venturing into a world where anything is possible.

While a theme or a motif in literature isn't exactly a 'hidden meaning,' many students struggle to find the themes within a book. While the themes in any given piece of literature can be debatable, most scholars agree Alice in Wonderland at least touches on several themes having to do with childhood, curiosity, and abandonment.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland represents the child’s struggle to survive in the confusing world of adults. To understand our adult world, Alice has to overcome the open-mindedness that is characteristic for children.