Books

American Publishing Co., 1894. First edition. Very Good. 23 cm; 432 pages, including half-tone photo frontispiece. Marginal illustrations in text. In rust brown decorated cloth. Issue point: text block measures 1 1/8 inches (about 3 cm). Small abrasion on lower edge of upper board, owner's name in pencil on pastedown, else about fine. BAL 3442 Kevin MacDonnell wrote in "Firsts Magazine" (1998) "This complex novel ... has become accepted in recent years as one of his major statements, and is thematically linked to HUCK FINN. The story begins when a slave woman switches her baby son with the baby infant of her master, and ends when her son murders his uncle and is put on trial where his true identify is revealed. Along the way, Twain explores the philosophy of determinism, and examines the culture of his Mississippi youth: small-town provincialism, miscegenation, the degenerative impact of slavery on master and slave, and parents who fail their children.

"The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson" is a novel by Mark Twain set in the antebellum South. The story centers on two infants, one white and one black, switched at birth. Pudd'nhead Wilson, a keen but socially awkward lawyer, plays a key role in uncovering the switch. The novel explores themes of racial identity, slavery, and social injustice. Twain employs his trademark wit to satirize societal norms while delivering a poignant commentary on prejudice and the tragic consequences of mistaken identities.

Look for the Charles L. Webster and Company imprint with 1894 as the publication date, along with the original dust jacket.