The Hatter is a fictional character in Lewis Carroll’s 1865 novel, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. He is a main character in the story, known for his peculiar behavior and speech. The Hatter is depicted as a madman who is always in a state of confusion and madness.

The character of the Hatter was inspired by Theophilus Carter, an eccentric furniture dealer who lived in Oxford, England, and was known for his strange behavior. Carroll was said to have based the character of the Hatter on Carter, and the name “Hatter” was a reference to the phrase “mad as a hatter,” which was commonly used to describe people who were suffering from mercury poisoning.

In the novel, the Hatter is first introduced when Alice encounters him and the March Hare having a tea party that never ends. The Hatter is known for his nonsensical conversation and strange behavior, which includes his obsession with time. He is always asking Alice questions that make no sense, such as “Why is a raven like a writing-desk?”

The Hatter is a memorable character in the world of literature and is considered one of the most iconic figures in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. He has been portrayed in numerous adaptations of the story, including films, plays, and musicals. He is often depicted as a comical and eccentric figure, and is often depicted wearing a top hat with a large brim, which is a trademark of his appearance.

The Hatter is widely recognized as a symbol of madness and absurdity, and his character is often used to comment on the absurdity of everyday life. He has become an iconic figure in popular culture, and his image has been used in numerous advertisements and products, making him one of the most recognizable characters from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.