why did Mark Twain use humor in the book TOm Sawyer?

Humor is one of the best ways of drawing people's attention to the points that Twain wanted to make.

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http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/tomsawyer/

Mark Twain, as a writer, often used humor in his works to entertain his readers and bring his characters to life. In the book "Tom Sawyer," humor serves several purposes.

Firstly, humor helps in capturing the essence of childhood. Tom Sawyer is a young boy, and by using humor, Twain showcases his mischievous and adventurous nature. The humorous situations and dialogues reflect the playful spirit of children and add a lightheartedness to the story.

Secondly, humor creates a sense of relatability among readers. Twain uses wit and satire to highlight the absurdities and follies of society, providing social commentary through laughter. By incorporating humor, Twain invites readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences with a humorous lens.

Lastly, humor acts as a narrative tool. It helps in engaging readers and maintaining their interest throughout the story. By injecting funny incidents and witty dialogues, Twain effectively breaks the monotony and adds entertainment value to the narrative.

To understand why Mark Twain specifically used humor in "Tom Sawyer," it is important to analyze the context of the story, the character of Tom Sawyer, and the themes Twain wanted to convey. By examining the book itself, as well as Twain's personal style and intentions as a writer, we can gain a deeper understanding of his use of humor.