Social Class and Inequality

Twain contrasts the lives of the wealthy and powerful with the poor and marginalized, as seen in his accounts of the starving girl in the sweat shop, the freedom of Huckleberry Finn, and the dignity of servants like Patrick.

The chapter contrasts the low cost of goods and labor in 1830s Missouri with the higher costs in 1870s Hartford, highlighting economic changes and class differences.

The chapter describes Hannibal's class divisions and the aristocratic pretensions of the Lampton family, contrasting with the town's democratic surface.

Twain notes the artificial inequalities between the rich Empress and poor John Malone, despite their equal worth.

The power dynamics between established businessmen like Sage and the inexperienced young partners highlight class and status in commerce.