Introduction…………………………………………………………………….3Main Part……………………………………………………………………1.The Historical and Cultural Context of American Humorous Literature Before Mark Twain………………………………………………………………………52. Mark Twain's Literary Biography and the Formation of His Humorous Style……………………………………………………………………………….133. Key Features and Techniques of Mark Twain's Humor: Language, Character, and Narrative…………………………………………………………………..…214. Mark Twain's Legacy and His Influence on the Development of American Humorous Literature………………………………………………………………………….29Conclusion………………………………………………………………………..37List of References and Sources………………………………………………….40Appendices…………………………………………………………………….…43