How are the prince and the pauper different?

Answer 1

The point that Twain makes in the "Prince and the Pauper" is that the two boys are essentially the same but society makes them different. This is what some psychologists call the difference between nature and nurture.By his up bringing the Pauper (Tom Canty) will have has less food, education, cleanliness and care. He would have developed life experiences based on being on the lower part of the social spectrum which would include fear of authority, deference to his "betters" and an expectation that whatever happens he will be on the short end. The "Prince" (the Prince of Wales – Edward VI)) will have the opposite expectations - an expectation of a good future, deference, good treatment, intellectual stimulation and physical comfort.

When the two boys exchange identiities the demonstrate that either can live the life go the other and are essentially the same.

Twain also explores this theme in "Puddin'head Wilson". a story of flack and white babies switched shortly after birth.