Books

Hartford, Connecticut: The American Publishing Company, 1894. 431 pages. Illustrated. Octavo. First U. S. Edition, First Issue, with all BAL first issue points: integral title page; frontispiece with Twain's facsimile autograph measuring 1 7/16" wide; and text block bulking to 1 1/8". Mark Twain's novel, The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson, is an important complement to Huckleberry Finn. Although he began writing the book as a comedy, it soon became clear that it actually was a serious statement on slavery, race relations, and miscegenation. When Pudd'nhead Wilson was published, Twain bound it with the novella The Comedy of Those Extraordinary Twins, which was the author's humorous take that had been his original objective. The book is clean and tight, with signature and date (April 1899) of previous owner on the front endpapers. Minor foxing on title page. . First Edition. Hardcover. Very Good+. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall. Book.

"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.