Mark Twain and Philosophy - (Great Authors and Philosophy) by Alan Goldman (Paperback)

About the Book

Mark Twain and Philosophy reveals deeper issues raised by Twain's work and speaks to his continued relevance as a social commentator interrogating issues fundamental to our lives. From slavery, freedom, and human rights, to science, parapsychology, and religion, this book expo...

Book Synopsis

Mark Twain and Philosophy reveals deeper issues raised by Twain's work and speaks to his continued relevance as a social commentator interrogating issues fundamental to our lives. From slavery, freedom, and human rights, to science, parapsychology, and religion, this book exposes how Twain's body of work touches every corner of human experience.

Review Quotes

Goldman (College of William and Mary) is a philosopher, and in this introductory study of philosophy, he uses Twain's texts as material. The 15 essays are organized into five sections. The first and strongest, "Morality in Huckleberry Finn," centers on Huck's developing conscience in relation to moral principles. "Twain on Religion" examines Twain's late writing critical of the Bible and organized religion. "Moral Issues" analyzes Twain's views on lying and animal rights. "Literary Devices" explains his usage of humor, satire, and irony. Finally, "Comparison to Other Philosophers" looks at Twain in relation to Diogenes, the Epicureans, Nietzsche, Hume, and Edward Bullough. All the essays are thoughtful and clearly written, and the collection is ideal for nonspecialists.... Summing Up: Recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates through faculty; general readers.

This volume makes a valuable contribution to Twain studies and, in the bargain, to the interchange between philosophy and literature. Above all, it is a reminder, if we needed one, of our sheer pleasure when we read Twain.

About the Author

Alan Goldman is the William R. Kenan Jr. Professor of Philosophy at the College of William & Mary. He has written extensively on philosophy and popular culture, literature, morality, love, and beauty. His most recent books include Philosophy and the Novel (2013) and Reasons from Within: Desires and Values (2009).