“The Notorious Jumping
Frog of Calaveras County”
Mark Twain
Some literary devices used in
humor writing include…
 Incongruity,
or the differences in logic or
degree. For example, a speaker may use
a serious tone to describe ridiculous
events.
 Hyperbole, the exaggeration of details or
embellishment of events beyond what is
logical.
 Comic uses of language, including funny
names.
Social Commentary
 Many
of Twain’s writings are also known
for their social commentary, or critique of
society.
 Twain carefully observes and writes about
human foibles, or weaknesses, which he
usually describes affectionately.
 *As we read, think about how this story
is an example of “social commentary.”