Introduction

The Prince and the Pauper, published in 1881 by Mark Twain, is a historical novel set in Tudor England. While often marketed as a children's book, it appeals to readers of all ages. The story centers on two boys—Edward Tudor, the Prince of Wales, and Tom Canty, a poor boy from London—who swap lives and experience the stark differences between royalty and poverty.

Twain, born Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was known for his humor and sharp social critiques. In The Prince and the Pauper, Twain satirizes the rigid class distinctions of the time, highlighting the absurdity and injustice of societal structures based solely on birthright.

Plot Summary

In 16th-century London, two boys are born on the same day: Tom Canty, the son of a beggar, and Edward Tudor, heir to the throne of England. Nine years later, Tom lives in Offal Court, a squalid neighborhood where his father forces him to beg and steal. Edward, meanwhile, lives in luxury, groomed to be the future king, but he is curious about life outside the palace.

Tom ventures near the palace one day, and Edward invites him inside. Struck by their identical appearances, the boys decide to switch clothes and experience each other's lives. The real adventure begins when Edward, dressed as Tom, is mistaken for a beggar and thrown out of the palace. Tom, left inside the palace, is assumed to be the prince and struggles to navigate royal life, while Edward faces the brutal reality of poverty.

Edward is beaten and mocked in the streets and eventually captured by Tom's abusive father, John Canty. Only Tom's mother suspects something is wrong, though she believes her son is simply mad. Edward's fortune changes when he meets Miles Hendon, a kind man who helps protect him from danger, though Miles believes Edward's claims of being a prince are delusions.

Back at the palace, Tom slowly adapts to his royal role. King Henry VIII dies, making Tom the new king in name, though he continues to struggle with the duties of leadership. His reign is marked by acts of mercy, and he impresses the court by ruling justly despite his background.

As Tom prepares for his coronation, Edward returns to Westminster with Miles, determined to reclaim his rightful place. In a dramatic moment, Tom steps forward at the ceremony and acknowledges Edward as the true king. To verify their identities, the court tests the boys by asking about the Great Seal of England, which only Edward can correctly locate.

Edward is restored to the throne and rewards Tom by making him his ward, ensuring his well-being. He also punishes John Canty and reforms unjust laws based on his experiences among the poor. Tom lives a long and respected life, never forgetting the adventure that gave him a glimpse into the world of royalty.