English 1001—Great American Authors

Discussion Questions for Mark Twain's Pudd'nhead Wilson, pp. 1-46.

  1. Why do the people of Dawson's Landing call David Wilson "Pudd'nhead"?

  2. How does Wilson fit in with the people of his new community?

  3. What does it mean to be "sold down the river" and why do the slaves fear this so much?

  4. What prompts Roxy to exchange the babies?

  5. Describe the relationship between Tom and Chambers as they grow up. What makes them behave differently?


John D. Schwetman
January 19, 2001