Mark Twain: An American Author and Humorist

Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was an American author and humorist famous for his novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. He was born on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, and grew up in the town of Hannibal, which served as the inspiration for the fictional town of St. Petersburg in many of his works.

Key Works by Mark Twain

• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1876)
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1884)
• The Prince and the Pauper (1881)
• A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court (1889)

Themes in Twain's Work

Mark Twain's writing often addressed themes such as the freedom of the individual, the moral and ethical development of society, and the hypocrisy and injustices of the adult world, particularly through the eyes of children or adolescents.

Writing Style

Twain's writing style is known for its humor, colloquial language, and keen observations of human nature. He often used satire and wit to critique societal norms and prejudices of his time.

Impact and Legacy

Mark Twain's works have had a lasting impact on American literature, and his legacy continues to influence writers and readers around the world. His use of regional dialects and his portrayal of the American experience have made his works timeless classics.

Study Guide Questions

1. What was Mark Twain's real name?
2. Which two famous novels are attributed to Mark Twain?
3. What themes did Mark Twain often address in his writing?
4. Describe Mark Twain's writing style.
5. What impact has Mark Twain's work had on American literature?

1. Mark Twain's real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens.
2. Mark Twain is best known for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
3. Mark Twain often addressed themes such as the freedom of the individual, the moral and ethical development of society, and the hypocrisy and injustices of the adult world.
4. Mark Twain's writing style is known for its humor, colloquial language, and keen observations of human nature. He often used satire and wit to critique societal norms and prejudices of his time.
5. Mark Twain's works have had a lasting impact on American literature, and his legacy continues to influence writers and readers around the world. His use of regional dialects and his portrayal of the American experience have made his works timeless classics.

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