"Pudd'nhead Wilson," a novel by Mark Twain, explores themes of identity and social status in a small Missouri town. The story revolves around two infants, one the son of a wealthy plantation owner and the other a slave's child. Through a series of mistaken identities, the narrative delves into the consequences of race and the arbitrary nature of social hierarchies. Twain uses humor and satire to address serious social issues, highlighting the flaws in societal perceptions based on race and class.
The main character, David Wilson, nicknamed Pudd'nhead, is seen as an eccentric and an outcast due to his unconventional ideas and hobbies. However, he becomes the unlikely hero of the story when he employs his skills in fingerprinting to solve a murder mystery. This method of crime-solving reflects the book's exploration of genetic versus environmental influences on identity. Pudd'nhead's character grows from a misunderstood figure to someone who reveals the truth about identity and morality.
The novel ultimately critiques the societal norms of Twain's time, presenting a powerful commentary on the constructs of race and identity. The plot twists and the intricate relationships between the characters underscore the absurdity of viewing individuals through a lens of race rather than character. Through "Pudd'nhead Wilson," Twain invites readers to question the validity of societal labels and to appreciate the complexity of human identity.