Background and Context
What is Man? is an essay written by American humorist and author, Mark Twain. The essay was first published in 1906 as part of a collection of short pieces called What is Man? and Other Philosophical Writings. In this essay, Twain examines the concept of mankind and his own opinion on man’s nature and the state of morality. The essay’s central theme is the inevitability of death, and Twain uses persuasive arguments to make the case that man is “no better than an animal” and is “under the dominion of death”. Twain draws on his experiences and insights as a person, a comedian, and a writer to explore the concepts of human nature, morality, and mortality.
Relevant Data
What is Man? is a particularly remarkable essay in the realm of Mark Twain’s work, due to its deep philosophical insight and intense exploration of the subject matter. Twain begins his essay by deconstructing the traditional notion that man is a creature of higher moral standing in contrast to other animals. He speaks of man’s spiritual capabilities, as well as his moral capabilities and his capacity for love, but maintains a skeptical view of these concepts. He then examines man’s physical capabilities, noting that man is the “most highly developed of the animals”, while also emphasizing that humans are vulnerable and mortal. Lastly, Twain explores the concept of death, arguing that it is “inevitable and unavoidable” despite the efforts of man’s invention and progress, and that death serves as proof of man’s mortality.
Perspectives from Experts
Incorporating his humor and wit, Twain’s essay is a stark reminder of the tragedy of death, while also providing a playful insight into the notion of mankind. In her analysis of Twain’s work, literary scholar Christian Winkler recognizes the essay as one of Twain’s “darkest and most pessimistic” pieces, noting the contrast between “the seriousness of the subject” and Twain’s “caustic wit and biting irony”. Furthermore, she points out that the essay’s “pessimism and parody” are necessary to provoke a “serious questioning of the foundations of morality”. Another literary scholar, Edith Zornow, similarly identifies the essay’s central subject as man’s “descent into death” and emphasizes that Twain’s purpose is to show death’s inevitability, “no matter how lofty man’s spiritual aspirations or how fragile and vulnerable he is”.
Insights and Analysis
Twain’s essay serves as critique of mankind and what it means to be “alive”, ultimately emphasizing the tragedy of death. As a writer, Twain is exceptionally skilled in using irony and satire to demonstrate his critique of man; he successfully dismantles traditional beliefs on man’s morality and invokes an understanding that death is both an essential aspect, and a burden of, life. His exploration of this concept also suggests that man, despite his potential to either love or otherwise, is fundamentally limited. In this sense, the essay can be seen as a reflection on the tragic reality of life’s transience and the grim concept of mortality.
Grammatical Structures
Twain utilizes syntax and grammatical devices in a sophisticated manner in order to effectively convey his message. Comparative phrases – such as “less savage than other animals”, “more highly developed”, and “more fragile and vulnerable” – serve as a reminder of his point; namely, that humans may be superior to other animals in some ways but are equal in terms of mortality. Twain also employs a variety of rhetorical devices, including rhetorical questions and metaphors, which serve to emphasize his regard for man’s mortality. Through his subtle manipulation of language and grammar, Twain demonstrates his own idea of what it means to be human – a balance between hope and despair.
Emotional Triggers
The essay is filled with poignancy, tragedy, and the weight of death, which Twain strategically incorporates through his choice of words, laconic irony, and powerful imagery. Though Twain’s caustic wit is often evident throughout the essay, he frequently appears to be saddened by the inevitability of death; dismissing the notion that man is more spiritual than animal and that man is above death. He confronts the reader with a stark reminder of what life really is and thus, forces the reader to contemplate his own mortality and reflect on the tragedy of existence.
Active Voice
Twain’s use of active rather than passive language allows for an intimate connection between writer and reader. He often speaks directly to the reader, challenging their preconceptions and forcing them to confront the realities of life. For example, Twain directly address the reader in the opening line of the essay with the rhetorical question, “What is Man?” The directness of his language immediately grabs the reader’s attention, making them feel personally accountable for the topics of mortality and death.
Social Context
The essay was first published in 1906 as part of a collection of short pieces entitled What is Man? and Other Philosophical Writings. In this period of time, Twain’s views on mankind were considered deeply controversial. He was strongly criticized by many for his views on the nature of man and his refusal to succumb to the “traditional” idea of what it meant to be “human”; at the time such opinionated critiques were largely unheard of and unorthodox. Twain’s essay serves as a social commentary on both the societal and personal consequences of living in a world in which death is a constant reminder of our mortality.
Religion
Although Twain does not take a specific religious stance in What is Man? he does allude to religious beliefs. Twain makes clear his skepticism with the idea of divine power and the immortal soul by noting that man’s mortality remains no matter who we may pray to. This sentiment is echoed throughout the essay; suggesting that death’s inevitability is beyond man’s control and thus divine intervention is futile. Therefore, Twain’s essay serves as a reminder of the uncertainty of life in a world that may or may not be ruled by a higher power.
Global Impact
Since its publication, Twain’s essay What is Man? has been widely considered as a novel piece of philosophical exploration and a social critique. It has sparked debates around the topics of mortality, mankind, and man’s place in the world. This essay has had a profound impact on both literature and philosophy, and has been widely studied, analyzed, and discussed by both academics and the general public. It is not just an exploration of the topics of mortality and death; it serves as an inquiry into the very nature of man and our place in the greater scheme of life.
Modern Relevance
Twain’s essay What is Man? continues to be relevant and influential today, even over a hundred years after it was first published. Despite the many changes in society, man’s mortality and the tragedy of life remain, as does the need for a critical examination of both the moral and spiritual capabilities of man. As a result, Twain’s essay is still able to hold a mirror up against society and provoke personal reflection. The essay’s timelessness and relevance serves as a piercing reminder that death is the one unifying human experience, no matter how we may choose to view ourselves and the world.
