Essay/Term paper: Classic tales of tom sawyer

Essay, term paper, research paper:  Mark Twain

Classic Tales of Tom Sawyer


Grudgingly going through the motions of reading page after page of a
book while pretending to be interested is not a pleasurable way to spend time.
Reading a book with a weak plot, dull setting, and lifeless characters requires
much effort. Unfortunately, many books are like this. Some books are not as
difficult to read and enjoy, but only a tiny percentage of books deserve enough
to wear the classification of "classic," like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by
Mark Twain.
Finding out what makes a piece of literary work a "classic" is essential
to fully understanding the significance of the books. In The Adventures of Tom
Sawyer, Twain successfully brings the story alive and makes it a pleasure to
read. This book has gained the respect of people all over the world and earned
itself this special distinction, because it contains the necessary substance.
These integral ingredients of a classic are the vivid descriptions of the
physical aspects of the story – the characters and setting, an entertaining and
eventful plot, and the lasting truths the story's themes express.
The most vivid memories of this story come from the striking
descriptions of the physical aspects of the story. Mark Twain immediately
brings the story to life with his introduction of the characters and their
surroundings. From here, the familiarity of the characters and setting
continues to grow. The depictions of the characters, both in mannerisms and
dialogue, are so picturesque that Tom's superstitions and fantasies soon cause
no great surprises, Aunt Polly's religious sayings and hidden affection for her "
mischeevous" Tom come to be expected, and Sid's sly attacks on Tom appear
deserving of Tom's revenge.
The unique setting of St. Petersburg on the Mississippi River provides a
suitable background for all of the characters' adventures. With McDougal's
Cave's "vast labyrinth of crooked aisles" nearby, the pirates' hideaway island
along with the old haunted house, Tom is situated in a setting worthy of his
activities.
The second needed portion of a classic is a captivating plot that
appeals to people of all ages. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer has no lack of this
enchantment. Tom's "giddy and harum-scarum" devilment, his romance with Becky
Thatcher, and Aunt Polly's masked feelings for Tom all provide for an especially
entertaining and humorous sample of life on the Mississippi River in the 1800s.
As the story progresses, despite the many changes of scenery, the reader relates
comfortably with the characters, their personalities and the surroundings.
Disguised in the events of the plot are the themes the author wishes to
express. These themes in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer are not explicitly stated,
yet are strongly conveyed. Tom Sawyer and his rowdy, unpredictable behavior
appeals to the readers, showing the priceless need of a fun childhood. Twain's
entertaining stories also make a statement against strict and orderly living.
Tom's whitewashing experience is only one of the instances where Mark Twain
helps transport his audience into Tom's world of mischief and fun. The
Adventures of Tom Sawyer reminds readers of their childhoods and urges them to
never forget those cherished days.
This timeless classic is guaranteed to leave every reader with a
distinctly favorable impression. The legendary and stirring details in this
classic cause much reflection on readers' own youths. People easily relate to
the unforgettable endeavors that Tom experiences in this story; they were once
there themselves, living the innocent lives of children. In very few other
places can someone find the humorous anecdotes and ever-lasting lessons of
childhood.