Comment on Twain’s humour with reference to the chapters from The Innocents Abroad as prescribed in your syllabus. 1x10=10

Comment on Twain’s humour with reference to the chapters from The Innocents Abroad as prescribed in your syllabus. 

1x10=10

Mark Twain's humor in "The Innocents Abroad" is marked by his keen observational skills, wit, and a penchant for satire. In the prescribed chapters, his humor often stems from his juxtaposition of American sensibilities with European cultures and traditions. Here are key elements of Twain’s humor from these chapters:

### Satirical Observations

Twain’s humor frequently involves satirical commentary on the behaviors and customs of the people he encounters. For example, he mocks the excessive reverence for ancient artifacts and ruins, poking fun at the way Europeans, and sometimes his fellow travelers, treat these objects with an almost religious fervor.

### Exaggeration

Exaggeration is a staple of Twain’s humor. He amplifies certain traits or incidents to ridiculous proportions to highlight their absurdity. This can be seen in his descriptions of tour guides, who he portrays as endlessly droning on with historical facts, often to the point of tedium.

### Cultural Contrast

Twain often contrasts American pragmatism with European tradition. This contrast provides a rich source of humor as he highlights the differences in attitudes and behaviors. For instance, he might describe an American tourist’s bluntness in a situation where European etiquette would demand a more subtle approach.

### Irony and Sarcasm

Irony and sarcasm are prevalent in Twain’s writing. He often says the opposite of what he means to make a point, adding a layer of complexity to his humor. For instance, when describing the awe of visiting the great landmarks of Europe, he might sarcastically downplay their significance in a way that underscores their grandeur through contrast.

### Self-Deprecation

Twain frequently includes himself as a target of his humor. This self-deprecation endears him to the reader and makes his observations about others more palatable. His anecdotes about his own misunderstandings or misadventures add a personal and relatable touch to his humor.

### Wordplay and Puns

Twain’s use of language itself is often humorous. His clever wordplay and puns add a layer of levity to his writing. This can be seen in his playful descriptions and the inventive ways he uses language to convey humor.

### Humor from Disillusionment

Twain's humor also comes from his disillusionment with the reality of famous sites compared to their romanticized images. This theme is common in his descriptions of places like the Holy Land, where the actual experience falls short of the grandiose expectations set by literature and art.

In summary, Twain’s humor in "The Innocents Abroad" is multifaceted, combining satire, irony, and cultural commentary. His ability to find humor in the mundane and the grand alike, and his skill in blending these elements seamlessly, makes his work both entertaining and insightful.