Honor in PW

Although the theme of nature vs. nurture is a very prominent and controversial idea in Pudd'nhead Wilson, I was almost more intrigued by the idea of honor. I guess I would say that it struck more of a chord with me because of its connection with irony-- honor is probably the most ironic theme throughout the novel. For example, Judge Driscoll's insistence that Tom duel Luigi in order to redeem his family's honor is just comical. Technically, this sort of duel is illegal, and since the Judge is completely immersed in the legal system, he should actually be discouraging this type of behavior in his relatives. Instead, his only concern is to redeem the Driscoll name in a manner that is considered to be noble and of the aristocratic class. When Tom instead does the technically legal thing, by filing charges against Luigi, the judge is outraged and refuses to recognize the charges. He is so furious that he disowns Tom and fights Luigi on his own.

In addition to the judge's blatant respect for honor over legality, he also makes it clear that he values this honor over the well-being of his nephew, Tom. It never even crosses his mind that there is potential danger in the duel with Luigi and that Tom may be injured. The only injury that the judge is concerned with is the injury that has been taken against the Driscoll name. What kind of uncle OR judge does that? Aren't uncles supposed to protect their nephews and do their best to make sure that they are safe? Aren't judges supposed to be the most just people in the nation? It is all just so ironic.

I believe the irony in the novel concerning the ideal of honor is what gives the novel its humor. It is not necessarily pleasant humor, but humor that brings to mind questions about people's moral characters and their motivations.