Mark Twain 
Pudd’nhead Wilson 

Mark Twain’s ‘Pudd’nhead Wilson’ is a captivating novel that intertwines themes of identity, race, and morality in the antebellum South. Written in Twain’s signature witty and satirical style, the novel explores the consequences of mistaken identities and societal expectations. Set in the fictional town of Dawson’s Landing, the story follows the lives of two boys who were switched at birth, leading to a series of dramatic events that challenge the reader’s perceptions of truth and justice. Twain’s narrative cleverly weaves together elements of mystery and social commentary, making ‘Pudd’nhead Wilson’ a thought-provoking and engaging read. As one of Twain’s lesser-known works, this novel offers a unique perspective on the complexities of race relations in America during the 19th century. With its nuanced characters and compelling plot, ‘Pudd’nhead Wilson’ continues to resonate with readers today, inviting them to reflect on issues of identity and prejudice in society.

About the author

Mark Twain, the revered pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, stands as one of America’s most celebrated humorists and writers. Born on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, Twain grew up along the banks of the Mississippi River, an area that would later become the setting for some of his most famous works. He ventured into various professions before fully embracing his calling as a writer, drawing from his rich experiences as a printer, riverboat pilot, and miner, experiences which imbued him with an intimate understanding of the American landscape and psyche. Twain’s oeuvre includes such classics as ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ and ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, ‘ with the latter often heralded as the ‘Great American Novel.’ In ‘Pudd’nhead Wilson’ (1894), Twain employs his trademark satirical wit to explore themes of identity and societal norms against the backdrop of the antebellum South. The work is acclaimed for its innovative use of a murder mystery to examine issues of race and the absurdity of racial distinctions. Twain’s distinctive literary style—marked by a deft blend of social satire, humor, and realism—has had an enduring influence on American literature. His acerbic wit and incisive social critiques remain as relevant today as they were over a century ago. Twain passed away on April 21, 1910, but left behind a legacy that continues to captivate and provoke.