This broad-ranging companion brings together respected American and European critics and a number of up-and-coming scholars to provide an overview of Twain, his background, his writings, and his place in American literary history.

• One of the most broad-ranging volumes to appear on Mark Twain in recent years.
  
• Brings together respected Twain critics and a number of younger scholars in the field to provide an overview of this central figure in American literature.
  
• Places special emphasis on the ways in which Twain's works remain both relevant and important for a twenty-first century audience.
  
• A concluding essay evaluates the changing landscape of Twain criticism.