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영어

This paper investigates the absurdity of stratified Southern society through the episodes of slavery in Pudd'nhead Wilson. The analysis of a slave-holding town, Dawson's Landing, raises an important question about the superficial peace and moral consciousness of the South. And Twain attacks town people's absurd attitude by exposing their ridiculous obstinacy to violent duel and aristocratic honor. Also, the accident of switched status dramatizes a falsehood of white ideology. That is, it can be a sharp criticism to the blind faith of white blood. Therefore, the major focus of this novel is about slavery of the South. Through the relationship of Tom and Roxy, Twain reveals the disintegration of family ties and de-humanization. And the revelation of Tom's identity and the treatment of Tom and Chambers drive the criticism of slavery to its peak. Chambers becomes a white victim and his destiny means the dark destiny of Dawson's Landing. At the same time, Wilson's success is also tragic because he helps to maintain the suppressive and distorted condition of slavery. This ending reflects Twain's pessimistic view that can no longer face dismal reality with humor.