New Book on Mark Twain’s Animal Empathy by Shelley Frost
If man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat. Mark Twain
I
have been studying the traits and dispositions of the ‘lower animals’
(so called) and contrasting them with the traits and dispositions of
man. I find the result humiliating to me. Mark Twain
Mark
Twain, a 19th-century American writer and satirist, remains much
beloved today, But many may not know of his respect for and recognition
of animals. Twain was an early and ardent animal welfare advocate, the
most prominent American of his day to take up that cause.
Mark Twain’s Book of Animals,
a new hardcover compilation by Shelley Fisher Fishkin, explores Twain’s
work on behalf of animals. Fishkin edited the book choosing passages
from Twain that reflect his thoughts and conclusions about animals and
their status in society.
Fishkin is a professor of English and director of Stanford University’s American Studies Program.
Shelley Frost has served in both executive and volunteer positions at animal shelters. A co-author of Your Adopted Dog, she also produces documentaries about animal issues.
