Kirjahaku

The essays in this volume represent a wide range of approaches to one of the most popular of all American novels. Michael Bell re-examines the crucial issue of romanticism versus realism in the book. Janet McKay discusses the linguistic subtleties of the novel, showing the social implications inherent in Twain's brilliant use of the vernacular. Lee Mitchell draws on post-structuralist theories to question Huck's own assumption that words themselves can represent the social world. Steven Mailloux combines sociopolitical perspectives and the methods of contemporary 'reader-response' analysis to identify how humour is generated in Huckleberry Finn and to enrich our understanding of the novel's topical impact.

A comprehensive study of Mark Twain's social and political attitudes. The author traces the growth of Twain's political and social convictions and thus shows his relationship to the age in which he lived. The work is based on research in the newspapers of the day, personal letters, and other little-known material, as well as intensive analysis of the most relevant works by Twain. The material is presented in a forthright style that moves at a springy pace.