“The Prince and the Pauper” is a historical novel by Mark Twain, written in the late 19th century. The story follows two boys, Tom Canty, a poor commoner, and Edward Tudor, the Prince of Wales, who meet by chance and, due to their striking resemblance, switch places. Through this tale, Twain delves into themes of class, identity, and the essence of royalty versus poverty, while offering a critique of the social injustices of his time.
The novel begins in 16th-century London, with both boys being born on the same day. Tom Canty is born into an impoverished and abusive family that neither wants nor values him. Despite his harsh surroundings, he nurtures dreams of a better life, fueled by stories of nobility and courtly splendor. In contrast, Edward Tudor is born into a life of royal privilege, celebrated by the entire nation. Yet, he remains unaware of the true joy that such wealth and status could bring.
Driven by a shared desire to experience each other's lives, the boys have a fateful encounter that leads to their dramatic exchange of identities. This swap becomes a transformative journey for both, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of each other's worlds. Along the way, they confront the stark realities of social inequality, and their lives are forever changed in ways they could never have anticipated. The story ultimately invites readers to reflect on the true value of human dignity and empathy.

I. The birth of the Prince and the Pauper.
II. Tom’s early life.
III. Tom’s meeting with the Prince.
IV. The Prince’s troubles begin.
V. Tom as a patrician.
VI. Tom receives instructions.
VII. Tom’s first royal dinner.
VIII. The question of the Seal.
IX. The river pageant.
X. The Prince in the toils.
XI. At Guildhall.
XII. The Prince and his deliverer.
XIII. The disappearance of the Prince.
XIV. ‘Le Roi est mort’?vive le Roi.‘
XV. Tom as King.
XVI. The state dinner.
XVII. Foo-foo the First.
XVIII. The Prince with the tramps.
XIX. The Prince with the peasants.
XX. The Prince and the hermit.
XXI. Hendon to the rescue.
XXII. A victim of treachery.
XXIII. The Prince a prisoner.
XXIV. The escape.
XXV. Hendon Hall.
XXVI. Disowned.
XXVII. In prison.
XXVIII. The sacrifice.
XXIX. To London.
XXX. Tom’s progress.
XXXI. The Recognition procession.
XXXII. Coronation Day.
XXXIII. Edward as King.
CONCLUSION. Justice and Retribution.
FOOTNOTES AND TWAIN’S NOTES