In Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the caterpillar is known simply as the ‘Caterpillar.’ Although the story does not give him a specific name, he is a memorable character who plays a significant role in Alice’s journey through Wonderland. The Caterpillar appears sitting on a mushroom, smoking a hookah, and engages Alice in a conversation that leaves her pondering her identity and the concept of change.
The Caterpillar’s iconic line, ‘Who are you?’ emphasizes one of the central themes of the story—Alice’s quest for self-discovery. His enigmatic nature and philosophical questions challenge Alice, making her reflect on her experiences and her growth throughout her adventures.