Inspiring Social Commentary in Mark Twain's Anecdote

What is Wheeler’s main activity? What social commentary (societal critique) about this activity might Twain be making through the use of humor? What are some examples of dialect in the story? How does the dialect add to the fact that this is a piece of social commentary?

Final answer:

Mark Twain's main activity in the anecdote is working as a riverboat pilot. Through the use of humor, Twain critiques the activity of riverboat piloting by highlighting the narrator's lack of knowledge and the captain's mocking of his inexperience. Twain uses dialect to add authenticity and emphasize the social commentary.

Mark Twain's main activity in the anecdote is working as a riverboat pilot. Through the use of humor, Twain critiques the activity of riverboat piloting by highlighting the narrator's lack of knowledge and the captain's mocking of his inexperience. For example, the dialogue between the narrator and the captain increases tension and reveals the narrator's anxiety.

In addition, Twain uses dialect to add authenticity and emphasize the social commentary. The dialect reflects the regional humor and satire that Twain is known for.