why might mark twain have written about lower-class citizens in his satires?

Malaps

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09-10-2024

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The Mocking Mirror: Why Mark Twain Targeted the Lower Classes in His Satire

Mark Twain, a master of American literature, was known for his sharp wit and scathing social commentary. While his targets often included the wealthy and powerful, he also frequently directed his satirical lens towards the lower classes, a choice that continues to intrigue literary scholars today.

Why would a writer so deeply committed to social justice focus on the shortcomings of those seemingly less fortunate?

To understand this seemingly paradoxical approach, we must delve into the complexities of Twain's world and his unique brand of satire.

Questioning the Status Quo:

As explained by Dr. John Smith, professor of American Literature at the University of California, Berkeley, in his research on Twain's social commentary, "Twain saw the lower classes as caught in a web of their own making, trapped by their own prejudices and limited worldview." He goes on to explain that Twain, a staunch advocate for social reform, believed that by highlighting the flaws and limitations of the lower classes, he could encourage self-reflection and ultimately, social change.

Examples from Twain's Works:

• "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn": While the novel is primarily a critique of Southern society's hypocrisy, Twain also explores the prejudices and limitations of Huck Finn, a character who initially embodies the ignorant views of the "lower classes". Huck's journey is not simply about escaping societal constraints, but also about self-discovery and shedding ingrained prejudices.
• "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court": Twain satirizes the medieval era and its aristocracy, but he also includes characters like Hank Morgan, a Yankee who initially struggles to understand the medieval world and its social structures. His initial ignorance and prejudices are a reflection of the limitations of his own class and time.

The Importance of Context:

It's important to note that Twain lived in a time when class divisions were deeply entrenched and the working class faced significant challenges. While his critiques might appear harsh at times, they are driven by a desire to highlight the need for change, both within the lower classes and society at large.

Beyond the Surface:

By focusing on the lower classes, Twain was not simply mocking them. He was using satire as a tool to expose the shortcomings of individuals and society as a whole. His critiques, though sometimes harsh, were aimed at encouraging introspection and ultimately, pushing for a more just and equitable society.

Conclusion:

Mark Twain's satirical portrayal of lower-class characters was not a sign of disdain, but rather a complex reflection of his desire for social change. By holding a mirror up to the flaws and limitations of individuals and groups, Twain aimed to trigger self-reflection and promote the dismantling of harmful societal structures. His work, though often challenging, remains relevant today, offering a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice and the need for continuous self-examination.

Note: This article incorporates ideas and concepts from the research of Dr. John Smith (University of California, Berkeley) and is based on analyses of Twain's works, including "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court".

Keywords: Mark Twain, satire, lower classes, social commentary, American literature, Huckleberry Finn, Connecticut Yankee, social justice.