Bo Peep February 15, 2017 All Rhymes 0 Comments

A college student explains his position to his professor, Dr Fell

I Do Not Like Thee Doctor Fell

I do not like thee, Doctor Fell,
The reason why, I cannot tell;
But this I know, and know full well,
I do not like thee, Doctor Fell.

Listen as female American:

Listen as male British:

Posted in All Rhymes, Historical & Traditional, People & Characters

Tagged dislike, doctor, honesty, student

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Meaning

This rhyme expresses a strong dislike of Doctor Fell without a clear reason. It is often used to sentimentally or humorously convey irrational aversion, making it a memorable example of feelings not always being logical. The repetition adds emphasis and a slightly comic tone.

Origin

Of English origin, the verse dates to the late 17th century. It is famously attributed to Tom Brown, an Oxford student, who was challenged by Dr. John Fell, the Dean of Christ Church, to translate a Martial epigram or face expulsion. Brown’s impromptu translation was witty—and the rhyme stuck.

Time Period

The rhyme was composed in 1680 and circulated widely in printed and oral tradition throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

Why It Became Popular

Its clever use of rhyme and quick wit made it a favorite among students and in classic literature. The phrase “I do not like thee, Doctor Fell” has become shorthand for an unexplained dislike or aversion, adding to its cultural resonance.

First Known Publication

First published in Oxford anecdote collections and later repeated in various nursery and poetry anthologies, sometimes as part of classic Mother Goose compilations.

Structure and Style

Meter: Iambic tetrameter
Rhyme Scheme: AABA
Line Count: 4
Style Notes: Direct, witty, repetitive, memorable for spoken recitation

Themes

Aversion and dislike
Wit and humor
Self-reflection
Classic character
Unexplained feelings

Language Notes

“Thee” is an archaic form of “you.” “Know full well” emphasizes certainty for emotional tone. The rhyme’s repetition underscores the speaker’s insistence despite lacking rationale.

Moral or Lesson

Feelings are sometimes irrational and can’t always be explained or justified.

Historical or Cultural Notes

The rhyme is tied to a real historical figure, Dr. John Fell, and the quick wit of Tom Brown. It highlights the tradition of classical translation exercises and humorous defiance among students.

Notable Variants

Almost always recited in its original form, though sometimes expanded for games or parodies.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Quoted in literary works, referenced in classroom anecdotes, and included in classic nursery rhyme collections.

Suggested Activities

Roleplay: Recite the rhyme dramatically and discuss what makes feelings mysterious.
Translation Game: Try translating other short poems or epigrams and compare results.
Memory Challenge: Memorize and perform the rhyme for friends or family.
Discussion: Talk about times when you felt a certain way without knowing why.
Creative Writing: Write a new rhyme about someone you like or dislike and explain why—or why not!
Literature Connection: Explore stories or poems about quick wit and clever comebacks.

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I Do Not Like Thee Doctor Fell

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