What Is Man? and Other Essays

Mark Twain (1835–1910) was a renowned American author, humorist, and lecturer, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens. Growing up along the banks of the Mississippi River in Missouri, he drew upon his experiences on the river to craft many of his works. His pen name, “Mark Twain,” was derived from a riverboat term used to measure the depth of the water. Twain's most famous works, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, vividly depict childhood adventures and provide a striking portrayal of American society at the time, earning their place as timeless classics. Especially The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is celebrated as a pinnacle of American literature for its profound insights into racial prejudice and human nature. With humor and wit, Twain skillfully critiqued social inequalities and injustices, offering readers both laughter and sharp social commentary. His use of vivid colloquial language and regional color enhanced his literary originality. In his later years, Twain faced personal tragedies and financial hardships, which influenced him to explore darker themes in his writings. Twain passed away in 1910 from a heart attack, but his works have left an indelible mark on American literature. Today, he is remembered not only for his humor but also for his profound insights into human nature and society, solidifying his place as one of the greatest writers in literary history.