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Decoding the Enigma of "NATURAL MAN" in Mark Twain's Works

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"Decoding the Enigma of “Natural Man” in Mark Twain’s Works" is an unexpected journey to the very heart of the utterly brightest American author, Mark Twain, the way he presented the phenomenon of “natural man” one of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s philosophy cornerstones. In this book, completely new for the genre, Taro Maeyashiki reveals the unique plan of Mark Twain’s fantastic worlds of literary characters using the one of the most noble and philosophical topics prisms. Maeyashiki, noticing, as the thick conceptual fog dissipates around the concept of “natural man,” explores how “natural man” can in fact be truly natural or free or innocent but at the same time, individual who has his sense of justice and injustice before a faceless society. Maeyashiki’s work is impressive not only due to derivative because, by analyzing, he tried to mean Twain’s perception of “natural man.” This work is not only to do with the literary world but venture into Twain’s internal essence analysis, his life, his philosophy, skepticism about the course of society development, and barely noticeable ideal simplification tendency, from the moral point of view. Referring to Rousseau’s theoretical notion of “natural man,” Maeyashiki writes that, essentially, Mark Twain was depicting the concept in his stories’ characters. This book is the readers’ dedication, as it allows us to look at Twain differently, through the high philosophical issues prism related to the essence of human nature and the destructibility of outer constrictions.

210 pages, Paperback

Published May 8, 2024

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Deotima Sarkar.
834 reviews25 followers
June 22, 2024
Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works by Taro Maeyashiki provides a scholarly analysis of Mark Twain’s aesthetical and metaphysical world and places it in the perspective of philosophical underpinnings of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This analysis is segmented into several informative sections of the book that addresses various aspects of this analysis.
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Maeyashiki starts with a philosophical mode of analysis of the ‘natural man’, the object which revolves around Rousseau’s thought and symbolizes simplicity, freedom and inherent justice. In this section it is shown how Twain’s characters are in possession of these ideals and have to cope with the difference between the positive impulse of the heart and the evil of society. This study highlights the notion of Twain’s discontent with modern vices, aligning with Rousseau’s pessimism regarding the advancement on people.
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The author also gives a good literary analysis explaining Twain’s characters based on manners of the ‘natural man’ to their behaviors and worldviews to their characters. The relationships depicted in the book are mostly complex, and these characters possess certain primordial moral compass that makes them compassionate and connected to nature. These aspects indicate that Twain did not fully accept the social norms and roles, and indeed, depicted them as a confinement of one’s freedom.
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Biographical perspective of Twain adds value to the process if one relates the writer’s life experiences and beliefs to the works. This section of the book adds another dimension to the reader, as a close look at Twain not only as a writer but as a philosopher with a powerful pen on many moral issues of his day, bringing one closer to the author and his work than ever before.
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In the implications section, Maeyashiki goes further to consider other issues of philosophy and morality and engages the readers in a reflection about freedom, justice and human nature. This work pressures the modern readership to think about timelessly pertinent query regarding human nature and development, thus recommending itself for discussion as an philosophical novel.
Profile Image for Dalia (book_o_creativity).
566 reviews70 followers
July 8, 2024
One of the biggest phenomenon in the legendary writer Mark Twain's works was his ability to draw characters much closer to the concept of 'Natural man'. By natural it means free or innocent but at the same time an individual who has his sense of justice and injustice before a faceless society. His theory was contemporary with the philosophy of natural man, presented by the Genevan philosopher and writer Jean-Jacques Rousseau. "Decoding The Enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain's Works" draws an analogy on this theory of natural man who maintains a harmony with society while still keeping his individuality. Through Mark Twain's works we learn a lot about this legendary author.

"Deconding The Enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain's Work" is a philosophical book that incorporates philosophical topics I've never heard of. This brings in light the correlation between man and society in general. The author has beautifully put forth not only the life of Mark Twain through his literary works but has discussed on the topic with much details. The book itself creates a new genre, although it's a philosophical work, it's more like a social theory that may provide solutions to the problems faced by our modern society, that is to bring change and harmony between man and society. It was an interesting book to read and discuss about and it was quite out of my comfort zone.

The writing is simple and understandable, making it accessible to a wide audience. However, there are instances of repeated lines and words, which can disrupt the flow and cause readers to lose focus. At times, I found myself zoning out due to these repetitive elements. Despite this, the text presents some intriguing theories that are worth exploring. These theories offer new perspectives and thought-provoking ideas, adding depth to the narrative. By addressing the redundancy and enhancing the variety in expression, the overall readability and engagement of the text could be significantly improved.
Profile Image for Debabrata Mishra.
1,626 reviews42 followers
July 31, 2024
The book "Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain’s Works," will take the reader on a scholarly journey undertaken by the author “Taro Maeyashiki” in an attempt to map the relation between Twain’s work and Rousseau’s concept of ‘natural man. ’ This is an erudite work of understanding the socio-philosophical context underpinning Twain’s literature.

He begins his analysis at that level by comparing and contrasting the inhabited terrain of Twain with Rousseau’s philosophical vision of the "natural man. " According to Rousseau, the natural man defines a subject that is pure, simple, and just, living his freedom that is untouched by exteriority of culture. He thoroughly annotates the manner by which the characters of Twain complement the tenets of idealization laid down by Rousseau. The main characters in Twain’s novels, who can be thought of as representatives of the American Gothic individualism and instinctive good conscience, are troubled by the contradiction between what they are and the situational evil of society.

It is worthwhile to establish that the book is conceptually analytical here because the author splits."natural man" into several thematic discussions. What Twain’s analysis outlines is the way all of his characters fit the Rousseau definition of the ‘state of nature,’ the noble savage, who in their heart possesses innate morality and has a proper relationship to nature, and yet is UI always and inherently betrayed by the culture and the values of the society he is in.

He complements the textual approach with the biographical one that shows the relation between the writer’s life events and his works. This dimension again proves to be very useful in understanding elements of Twain’s philosophy and his dissatisfaction with the direction of social evolution. Analyzing one’s personal views and stressing the author’s philosophical outlook as a writer yields a far deeper understanding of Twain not only as the writer but as a critically-thinking individual who faced moral and existential issues. In the last parts of the essay, he goes deeper into the philosophical and ethical aspects of the matter to challenge the reader into thinking about liberty, fairness and human beings’ character.

The major advantage of the book is the authors’ attempt to synthesis the critical and the philosophical analysis with biography. Besides broadening the understanding of Twain’s characters, this volume helps to think about the nature and world with the intention to explore the most basic human questions and the possibilities of their answers.

In conclusion, it can be stated that the published book can be considered as the penetrating and stimulating analysis of Mark Twain’s works and his philosophical vision. Overall, due to its rigorous elaboration of Twain’s characters in the light of Rousseau’s notions connected with the natural man, the presented book contributes a deep and valuable insight into the Twain’s work. Consequently, it is beneficial as a work for specialists in Twain’s oeuvre and philosophy lovers as those who will look for the deeper philosophical implications of the book and Twain’s vision of the human being and society.
Profile Image for Rahul Vishnoi.
740 reviews21 followers
June 18, 2024
-Revisiting a literary genius-
Review of Decoding the enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain’s works by Taro Maeyashiki
🖋️📖

English literature students must be familiar with the iconic name of Mark Twain. Writer of legendary classics like The adventures of Tom Sawyer and The adventures of Huckleberry Finn, his works have transcended the boundaries of time and country.

At the age of 28, the author writes, Samuel Langhorne Clemens adopted the pen name of Mark Twain. He started writing by the age of 15. A prolific writer, he has been praised by Hemingway in the following words- ‘All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn.’
William Faulkner described him as ‘the first truly American writer.’

Writer of more than 30 books, he primarily dealt with themes of social problems, moral corruption, and prejudices. The adventure of huckleberry Finn became famous because it dealt with the issues of slavery and hence was even banned in many American states from featuring in school textbooks. Because of these social themes, Mark Twain has become quite popular in Japan.

The appearance of the traits of ‘natural man’ in Twain’s characters can be traced back to Jean-Jackques Rousseau’s works, writes Maeyashiki. The many traits visible in Twain’s works have in fact come from Rousseau’s concept of natural man. The natural man should have good survival techniques, he has simple needs and feels happy as long as he can secure food, clothing and shelter. His spiritual and environmental freedom is essential. He knows how to use tools without anyone teaching him. He has an intimate relationship with animals. His conscience is rooted in nature and thus he is innocent. He is compassionate and does no harm to others.

The author discusses the character of Mark Twain in detail and those who long for the background information of legendary works, this book is a must for them.
203 reviews4 followers
June 23, 2024
Taro Maeyashiki's 'Decoding the Enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain's Works' delves deeply into the intricate interplay between Mark Twain's literary universe and the philosophical framework of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. At its core, Maeyashiki's work is a scholarly exploration that seeks to unravel Twain's conception of the "natural man" and its implications within the broader societal and moral context.

The author has done a tremendous job in meticulously examining how Twain's characters embody or challenge the idea of the natural man—a concept rooted in Rousseau's philosophy, which posits that human beings in their natural state are inherently good, free, and untainted by the corrupting influences of society. The author skillfully navigates the literary genius, Twain's narratives, revealing how his characters navigate their own moral landscapes, often in defiance of societal norms and expectations.

Moreover, I liked the way the book transcended mere literary criticism by delving into Twain's personal philosophies and life experiences, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how Twain's skepticism towards societal progress and development is intricately woven into his literary works. The author adeptly connects Twain's writings to his broader existential concerns, illustrating how Twain's portrayal of the natural man reflects not only his literary prowess but also his profound philosophical introspection.

Overall, this book provided an out-of-the box and relatable perspective of what we have already read in Mark Twain’s works. I feel that this book is an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts alike who seek a deeper understanding of Mark Twain's literary legacy and philosophical underpinnings. It enriches our appreciation of Twain's complex narratives and invites us to reflect on timeless questions about the nature of humanity and the constraints of societal norms.
Profile Image for Srishti.
351 reviews3 followers
July 25, 2024
"Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" by Taro Maeyashiki is a captivating exploration of Twain's literary universe through the philosophical lens of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Maeyashiki meticulously examines how Twain's characters embody Rousseau’s ideals of simplicity, freedom, and inherent justice while grappling with societal corruption.

The book's strength lies in its comprehensive analysis, blending literary criticism with philosophical inquiry. Maeyashiki skillfully navigates Twain’s narratives, highlighting his characters' struggles between innate morality and societal expectations. This nuanced examination deepens our understanding of Twain’s discontent with modern vices and his alignment with Rousseau’s pessimism about human advancement.

Maeyashiki’s literary analysis is equally commendable, exploring Twain’s depiction of social norms as confinements of individual freedom. The biographical perspective adds significant depth, connecting Twain’s life experiences to his works and presenting him as both a writer and philosopher.

While the dense philosophical discussions may be challenging for some readers, Maeyashiki’s work remains an impressive scholarly achievement. His ability to intertwine literary analysis, philosophical inquiry, and biographical detail offers a multifaceted understanding of Twain’s legacy. The book invites reflection on timeless questions about human nature and societal constraints, making it a valuable addition to Twain scholarship.

In summary, "Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" is a thought-provoking read. Maeyashiki’s meticulous analysis and appreciation for Twain’s literary genius makes this book essential for scholars and enthusiasts, enriching our understanding of Twain as both a storyteller and a profound thinker of the human condition.
Profile Image for Sameeksha.
441 reviews16 followers
August 4, 2024
Books create a slightly fictional world to reveal deeper truths about the real world. Taro Maeyashiki’s Decoding the Enigma of “Natural Man” in Mark Twain’s Works decrypts Twain’s literary universe, uncovering the depth and truth of his writings. Maeyashiki also decodes Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s works, drawing connections to Twain’s themes.

The three models of the natural man elucidate the distinct characteristics of each philosopher's journey toward becoming a civilized man. The author sheds light on Twain’s characters, highlighting traits such as pacifism, egalitarianism, animal friendship, compassion, innocence, heretical beliefs, desire, and survival techniques.

The book explores the significance of Twain’s characters in relation to the concept of the natural man. These characters embody elements of natural-man-like qualities, reflecting Twain’s rich view of nature.

Characters like Joan of Arc, Tom and Huck, and the African-American character Jim personify Twain’s thoughts and emotions. The author also focuses on how Twain’s characters voice the experiences of the oppressed, symbolizing the desire for freedom. Additionally, the book addresses the depiction of Native Americans and their violent behavior in response to the violation of their territory.

One of my favorite chapters is "Satan in Contact with the Natural Human," which explores powerful similarities to the natural man.

This book is a beautiful testament to understanding Mark Twain’s literary world. It provides insights into the moral complexities and underlying motives of his works. Maeyashiki offers a detailed framework that reflects the moral compass of society.
Read this book for a deeper understanding and analysis of Mark Twain’s works, guided by Taro Maeyashiki’s thoroughly researched insights into Twain’s life and literature.
Profile Image for Christeena  Thomas.
254 reviews8 followers
June 27, 2024
Taro Maeyashiki's "Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" offers a profound exploration into the intersection of literature and philosophy. By delving deep into Twain's characters through the lens of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept of the natural man, Maeyashiki unveils a rich tapestry of themes encompassing innocence, justice, and individuality in Twain's narratives.

The book adeptly navigates Twain's literary universe, revealing how characters like Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer embody or challenge Rousseau's ideals of inherent goodness and freedom from societal constraints. Maeyashiki's analysis goes beyond traditional literary criticism, incorporating Twain's personal beliefs and societal critiques, thus offering a comprehensive understanding of Twain's philosophical underpinnings.

Moreover, Maeyashiki's exploration is not confined to theoretical frameworks but also provides insightful glimpses into Twain's life and historical context. This contextual backdrop enriches the reader's appreciation of Twain's complex narratives, illustrating how his skepticism towards societal progress manifests through his portrayal of characters navigating moral dilemmas and societal norms.

In essence, "Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" is a thought-provoking and scholarly work that sheds new light on Twain's literary genius. It invites readers to reconsider Twain's enduring relevance in challenging societal conventions and celebrating the resilience of human spirit against moral complexities. Essential for anyone interested in American literature, philosophy, or the timeless exploration of human nature in literature.
Profile Image for Book_withquotes.
627 reviews20 followers
July 3, 2024
“Decoding the Enigma of ‘Natural Man’ in Mark Twain’s Works” by Taro Maeyashiki delves into Twain’s portrayal of the “natural man,” inspired by Rousseau’s philosophy. Maeyashiki explores how Twain’s characters embody natural freedom and justice, challenging societal norms. This insightful work transcends traditional literary critique, offering a fresh perspective on Twain’s internal philosophy and skepticism about societal progress. By connecting Rousseau’s ideals with Twain’s fiction, Maeyashiki highlights the complex interplay between individual morality and societal constraints.

For fans of Mark Twain, this book is indispensable as it offers a more profound comprehension of his literary and philosophical core. The majority of the connections in the novel are complicated, and the characters have an innate moral compass that connects them to nature and makes them empathetic. This book is essential for everyone interested in learning the underlying details of classic works since the author delves deeply into Mark Twain’s persona.

The author deftly links Mark Twain’s literary works to his more general existential issues, demonstrating how Twain’s depiction of the natural man reveals both his literary skill and his deep philosophical reflection. Important reading for everyone interested in American literature, philosophy, or the classic literary examination of human nature. This book encourages us to see the underlying philosophical elements in Twain’s writings and pays homage to his genius.
79 reviews
July 7, 2024
Decoding the Enigma of "Natural Man" in Mark Twain's Works by Taro Maeyashiki

Pages: 210
Ratings: 4.2/5⭐️

If you're familiar with Mark Twain's works, you might recognize his portrayal of the "natural man." This book offers a clear examination of Twain's ideas, particularly highlighting his use of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept in his narratives. The author has organized this exploration into several enlightening sections, each delving into different aspects of the topic. The book demonstrates how Twain's characters embody the traits of a “natural man” — individuals who are free and innocent.

The author provides a thorough literary analysis, connecting the behaviors and worldviews of Twain’s characters to the principles of the 'natural man.' The relationships in Twain’s works are depicted as intricate, with characters guided by a fundamental moral compass that fosters compassion and a connection to nature. These traits suggest that Twain was critical of social norms and roles, viewing them as constraints on individual freedom.

Overall, this book offers a fresh and relatable perspective on Mark Twain’s works. It is a valuable read for scholars and enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of Twain's literary legacy and philosophical foundations. The book enhances our appreciation of Twain's complex narratives and encourages reflection on enduring questions about human nature and societal constraints.
471 reviews3 followers
July 8, 2024
Book :Decoding the enigma
Author: Taro Maeyashiki
Review: “Decoding the Enigma of ‘Natural Man’ in Mark Twain’s Works” by Taro Maeyashiki is a compelling exploration into the depths of Mark Twain’s literary universe through the lens of Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s concept of ‘natural man’.

This book stands out in its genre for its innovative approach, unveiling Twain’s thematic intricacies with meticulous detail and scholarly rigor. Maeyashiki not only dissects Twain’s interpretation of ‘natural man’ but also delves into the author’s personal philosophies, skepticism towards societal progress, and his moral and ethical frameworks. By bridging Twain’s narrative worlds with Rousseau’s theoretical foundations, Maeyashiki reveals how Twain’s characters embody the struggle between innate human values and external societal pressures.

In essence, “Decoding the Enigma of ‘Natural Man’” is a testament to Maeyashiki’s dedication to Twain’s oeuvre and the exploration of profound philosophical themes. It enriches our understanding of Twain as not just a storyteller but as a profound commentator on the human condition. For anyone intrigued by the intersection of literature and philosophy, this book offers a rewarding and illuminating journey into the heart of Twain’s enduring literary legacy.

4/5
#bookphotography #marktwain #enigma
Profile Image for Shruti Skye.
312 reviews4 followers
July 16, 2024
The book offers a profound and insightful analysis into the recurring theme of the 'natural man' in the literary canon of Mark Twain. The book delves into Twain's exploration of human nature, morality, and society, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of his perspectives on the inherent qualities of mankind.

It highlights the ways in which Twain portrays the 'natural man' as a complex and often contradictory figure and illuminates Twain's critique of societal norms and his belief in the purity and inherent goodness of individuals when untainted by societal influences.

One of the standout features of this book is its in-depth analysis of Twain's philosophical influences and how they shaped his portrayal of the 'natural man.' The author draws connections between Twain's writings and the works of philosophers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who posited that humans are naturally good but corrupted by society.

This philosophical context enriches the reader's understanding of Twain's characters and themes, shedding light on his critique of civilization and his idealization of a more natural, unspoiled existence.

In conclusion, "Decoding the Enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain's Works" is a must read for everyone. Its thorough and insightful analysis provides a deeper appreciation of Twain's literary genius and his profound exploration of human nature.
324 reviews3 followers
July 1, 2024
If you've read books by Mark Twain, you're likely familiar with his concept of the "natural man." This book provides a straightforward exploration of Twain's ideas. It highlights Twain's use of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept in his stories. The author has divided this concept into several informative parts of the book, each addressing different facets of the topic. He explores how Twain's characters show what it means to be a “natural man” — someone who is free, innocent.

The book goes beyond just talking about Twain's stories. It also discusses his personal beliefs, his life, and his views on society. The author has compared Twain’s characters to Rousseau’s idea of the “natural man” which made us understand Twain better. The book presents complex relationships with characters who are naturally kind and connected to nature, reflecting his deep thoughts about human nature and society.

Although the book is informative and well-researched, I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone. I found it challenging to understand and it took me a while to get through. However, if you're interested in this subject, it's worth a look.








Profile Image for Srijani Ray.
233 reviews
August 26, 2024
"Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" by Taro Maeyashiki offers a detailed examination of how Mark Twain’s characters reflect Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept of the 'natural man.' The book provides a thorough analysis of Twain’s portrayal of characters who, embodying Rousseau’s ideals of freedom and innocence, struggle against societal corruption.

While the book is well-researched and informative, it is somewhat lengthy and could have been more concise. The detailed exploration of Twain's personal beliefs and life adds depth but may be challenging for those less familiar with Twain’s work. The clear language and engaging layout, including pictures and bullet points, enhance readability, but the book’s depth can be overwhelming.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for those interested in Twain’s philosophical perspectives. However, it may not be suitable for casual readers. It’s an insightful read for those looking to deepen their understanding of Twain’s literary and philosophical contributions.
My rating: 3.5/5🌟
Profile Image for Paperback_reviews .
269 reviews6 followers
July 14, 2024
In this book the author Taro Maeyashiki tried to mean twain's perception of natural man.This book was not solely based on twain's literary theory but it detailed his personal life, brief introduction, skepticism about social development. New perspectives were discussed in the book. This was a moderate read with thought provoking ideas. This book was both educational and practical. Annotations could be done while reading it. The book was written in simple language but one thing which disappointed me was the representation of things. It was dragged , it could be possible to write in short length. Both beginners and pro readers can read this book but one should know about Mark twain's literary works. The book cover was eye catching. Pictures, Numerical data, bullet points and multiple definitions were given throughout the book. Undoubtedly this was a well researched read. The title was justified throughout the book. 
Profile Image for bong_bookworm.
395 reviews8 followers
July 29, 2024
Decoding the Enigma of Natural Man in Mark Twain's Works by Taro Maeyashiki presents a thorough analysis of intricate interplay between the literary world of Mark Twain and the philosophical framework of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The scholarly work meticulously explores Twain's portrayal of the "natural man" and its profound implications within the broader societal and moral context of his writing.
The book delves into Twain's discontent with modern societal vices and illustrates how his characters are deeply connected to nature while challenging societal norms.
Moreover, the book provides insights into Twain's own life experiences and biographical perspective, enriching the reader's understanding of the author and his works.This book goes beyond literary criticism, delving into Twain's personal philosophies and influences, and is recommended for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Mark Twain's literary and philosophical contributions.
Profile Image for Hema.
356 reviews19 followers
July 29, 2024
Decoding the Enigma of "NATURAL MAN" in Mark Twain's Works by Taro Maeyashiki is a very unique book. I am not that aware of Mark Twain’s work as I have read his work long long back. As much as I remember his books always deal with social problems.
In this book you will try to understand what it actually means by Natural Man. We also come across what Twain’s personal beliefs were, how was his life etc. This book is divided into different informative sections. The author brings into our vision that how Twain’s characters were morally correct, and not always like the one what the society needs.
This book is mostly for people who have read Mark Twain’s work and want to get more insight in his life and get more understanding how his beliefs were. The dedication and research that the author has done for writing this book is incredible and helped me to understand that Mark Twain was not only a classic writer but also a person who wants his readers to get more to society and the condition.
Profile Image for Swarnali Karar.
561 reviews18 followers
June 26, 2024
"Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain's Works" by Taro Maeyashiki is a fascinating look at Twain's stories through the ideas of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The book explains how Twain's characters show innocence, justice and individuality despite society's rules. It sheds light on Twain's thoughts about society and his skepticism about its progress.

The book is more than analyzing the literature, diving deep into Twain's life, beliefs and simple moral views.

By connecting Rousseau’s theories with Twain’s unique storytelling, the book shows a new way to understand human nature and societal influences.

This book is a tribute to Twain's brilliance, encouraging us to see the deeper philosophical themes in his works.
Profile Image for Pavireads.
380 reviews4 followers
July 20, 2024
"Decoding the Enigma of 'Natural Man' in Mark Twain’s Works" by Taro Maeyashiki is a unique examination of how Twain’s characters embody Rousseau’s philosophical idea of the "natural man." The book delves into Twain's portrayal of individuals who maintain their innocence and sense of justice amid societal constraints. Maeyashiki offers a fresh perspective on Twain’s literary world, exploring his life, philosophy, and skepticism towards societal progress.

The book is engaging and thought-provoking, making complex ideas accessible. It is best suited for fans of Mark Twain, literary scholars, and anyone interested in the philosophical dimensions of literature.
Profile Image for Mugdha Mahajan.
765 reviews75 followers
July 30, 2024
This book is a fresh look at Mark Twain's stories through the ideas of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Maeyashiki shows how Twain's characters struggle between their natural innocence and the pressures of society. This book helps readers understand Twain's thoughts on human nature and his doubts about modern society. It's a great read for anyone who loves literature and philosophy.
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