"The Mysterious Stranger"

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the differences in the original writing and the edited version of the book, "The Mysterious Stranger" by Mark Twain. It examines the effects his personal tragedies had on his mental health. The paper explores the influence of Twain's mental state on "The Mysterious Stranger."

From the Paper:

"Mark Twain wrote "The Mysterious Stranger" at the end of his life, and near the conclusion of a long and renowned career. Known for his biting sarcasm and supreme wit, Twain was an American legend by the time this story was published in 1916, six years after his death. Immediately, it seems to deviate from his other works, for the subject is certainly dark and evil compared to his other books, such as "Mark Twain," and "Roughing It," where his wit and humor were the primary reasons the books sold so well. People were used to reading books from Twain that made them think, but made them laugh, but "The Mysterious Stranger" simply made most people uncomfortable. Perhaps the discomfort came because it hit too close to home for many readers, and they saw the absolute and ultimate hopelessness Twain portrays at the end of the book."

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