Mike Clinton
Mark Twain’s Savage Side
Mark Twain is widely known for his humorous and satirical writings, but he also had a savage side that often went unnoticed. In "The Lowest Animal," Twain unleashes his aggressive tone to critique humanity’s behavior and morals. This essay showcases Twain’s ability to use biting sarcasm and ridicule to expose the flaws of his fellow humans.
It’s easy to forget that Twain was a man of many contradictions. Despite his reputation for wit and humor, he also had a deep-seated anger and cynicism towards humanity. He was known to be rather pessimistic about the human condition, and "The Lowest Animal" is a perfect example of this. Twain doesn’t hold back in his criticism, and his words are filled with a raw power that is both intimidating and captivating.
Twain’s aggressive tone in "The Lowest Animal" can be seen as a reflection of his frustration with society. He was a man who witnessed firsthand the injustices and inequalities of his time, and it’s clear that he wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. While some may be put off by the ferocity of his words, it’s important to remember that Twain was simply using his voice to shed light on important issues.
Analyzing the Ferocity in "The Lowest Animal"
"The Lowest Animal" is a scathing critique of humanity’s behavior and morals, and Twain’s aggressive tone is a key component of this essay. From the very beginning, Twain sets the tone by describing humans as "the animal that blushes." This seemingly innocuous phrase quickly takes on a more sinister meaning, as Twain uses it to highlight the hypocrisy and cruelty of human behavior.
Throughout the essay, Twain employs a range of rhetorical devices to drive home his point. He uses repetition to emphasize the similarities between humans and animals, and he uses irony to highlight the absurdity of human behavior. His use of sarcasm is particularly effective, as it allows him to criticize society in a way that is both biting and humorous.
Ultimately, Twain’s aggressive tone in "The Lowest Animal" is a reflection of his desire to provoke change. He was a man who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, and this essay is evidence of that. By using his voice to highlight the flaws of humanity, Twain was able to start important conversations about morality and ethics. While his words may have been harsh, they were ultimately necessary in order to inspire change.