Pudd Nhead Wilson Character Analysis

It has been long debated whether one's character and personality is ingrained at birth or developed in the environment one is raised. In his novel, Pudd'nhead Wilson, Mark Twain shows his stance on the matter through the two characters Tom and Chambers. Though race and social status minutely affect their evolution, Twain shows his affinity for nurture in determining the quality of one's character through the behavior and luxuries of both boys as children, the change in character after being switched at birth, and the impact of the boys both learning of their true identities.

When the switch took place, it appeared as if Tom and Chambers' lives became complete opposites. As Tom matures, he lives a lavish lifestyle, receiving "all the petting"(19)

while Chambers is treated as a typical slave growing up. However, as Tom continues to grow older, this luxurious lifestyle begins to take a toll on his character. He loses his sense of empathy and concern for others, becoming a spoiled and self-centered brat. Conversely, Chambers is a "meek and docile"(19) spirit, but is given nothing for his serene personality. At one point in the book, Tom's poor character is displayed as he plays an ill-mannered trick on him by swimming out into the river and pretending to be drowning, begging Chambers to rescue him. Chambers, who "believed his master was in earnest...swam out, and arrived in time, unfortunately, to save his life" (43). Feeling embarrassed about a slave saving him, Tom "heaped insults upon Chambers for 'pretending' to think he was earnest in calling for help, and said that nobody but a blockhead nigger would have known he was funning and left him alone " (43). Although most people would be grateful having their life saved, it looks as if Tom's lack of character gave rise to a resenting and ungracious attitude, hence accrediting the idea that the poor nurturing he received growing up has precipitated a poor demeanor, not “the ‘nigger’ in him” (52)