1601: Conversation, as it was by the Social Fireside, in the Time of the Tudors

Description

1601: Conversation, as it was by the Social Fireside, in the Time of the Tudors is one of Samuel L. Clemens’ lesser known works. The acclaimed author known as Mark Twain by his pen name has written numerous successful classical novels the likes of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer, and the association of his name with a work considered so bawdy and “out there” during the late 19th century was unheard of.

The topic at hand is flatulence, also laced with an intricate discussion of 17th century fornication at the Royal English Court. Set in the time of the Tudors, this short squib is presented as a fictitious diary entry of one of Queen Elizabeth the I’s ladies-in-waiting. It introduces the Queen sitting at a dinner table together with Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, Beaumont and several other notable literary figures of the time.

Although short, the sketch is extremely funny and considered acceptable by today’s standards, despite having been deemed inappropriate and even named pornography in the days of Mark Twain. Under the circumstances it is understandable why the famous author would publish it anonymously in 1880, and only claim it as his work 26 years later.

In spite of its unconventional style and object of discussion, 1601 is remarkably droll and witty. Twain’s genius shines through his language and style despite the fact that he had written the sketch in a time that he was experiencing writer’s block while working on what would become one of his greatest novels – Huckleberry Finn.

Some might find it crude and vulgar, while others will see 1601 as it truly is – a short gem and a real masterpiece of humor written by one of history’s most talented and unique authors. Whether or not you are familiar with Mark Twain’s works, this brief and highly unconventional satirical writing may be just what you need to get you off the beaten path.
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