Alice gives her thimble to the Dodo because, after the chaotic Caucus Race, she was elected by the Dodo to distribute prizes, and having given out all her mints to the other animals, she was left without a prize for herself. She found the thimble and, in a unique twist of logic, handed it to the Dodo as his prize, only for him to immediately present it back to her as her own.
The Aftermath of the Caucus Race
Following the disorienting Caucus Race, where everyone starts and stops as they please, the Dodo declares that everyone has won, and therefore, everyone deserves a prize. This whimsical pronouncement sets the stage for Alice's unexpected role.
- Universal Victory: The Dodo's declaration ensures that no one feels left out, establishing an unusual precedent for race outcomes.
- Prize Distribution: Alice is then appointed by the Dodo to be the one to confer these prizes upon all the participants.
Alice's Predicament and the Thimble
Alice diligently hands out the mints she has to all the other animals. However, this leaves her in a peculiar situation:
- Selfless Act: She ensures every other creature receives their due prize.
- Personal Deficiency: Consequently, Alice finds herself without a prize for her own participation in the race.
It is at this point that she finds a thimble. Instead of claiming it for herself, she decides to use it as part of the prize-giving ceremony.
The Unusual Exchange
In a moment characteristic of Wonderland's peculiar logic, Alice presents the thimble to the Dodo.
- Initial Intent: Alice hands the thimble to the Dodo, ostensibly as his prize. This action aligns with her designated role as the prize-giver.
- The Re-presentation: The Dodo, accepting the thimble, promptly turns around and formally presents it back to Alice, declaring it to be her prize. This humorous and circular exchange serves as Alice's unique reward.
This entire sequence highlights the nonsensical yet charming nature of the events in Wonderland, where logic is often turned on its head.
