Exploring Prejudice, Miscegenation, and Slavery\u27s Consequences in Mark Twain\u27s Pudd\u27nhead Wilson

This research paper analyzes Mark Twain\u27s use of racist speech and racial stereotypes in his novel Pudd\u27nhead Wilson. Twain has often been criticized for his seemingly inflammatory language. However, a close reading of the text, supplemented by research in several anthologies of critical essays, reveals that Twain was actually interested in social justice. This is evident in his portrayal of Roxana as a sympathetic character who is victimized by white racist society in Dawson\u27s Landing, Mississippi during the time of slavery. In the final analysis, Twain\u27s writing was a product of the time period during which he wrote. This knowledge helps students understand the reasons behind Twain\u27s word choices, characterization, and portrayal of race