You've heard the phrase don't judge a book by its cover, but it's just so easy to judge people and things based on their appearances. The only problem is, that's also a really easy way to get tricked. The Prince and the Pauper is totally centered on the idea that appearances can be misleading. Edward and Tom trick everyone around them just by changing their outfits. Makes you think twice about buying that book with the pretty cover, doesn't it?
Questions About Appearances
- What is the effect that changing appearances has on how people are treated in The Prince and the Pauper?
- Is judging a person based on his or her appearance a reliable way to determine who that person is in The Prince and the Pauper? Why or why not?
- What statement do you think Mark Twain is trying to make about appearances in The Prince and the Pauper?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Appearances tell you a lot about people in The Prince and the Pauper.
Appearances have very little to do with the truth in The Prince and the Pauper.