A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court

Mark Twain’s humorous tale of a Connecticut factory supervisor being transported back in time to the days of Camelot is a classic example of the author’s double-edged wit. Hank Morgan falls unconscious during an altercation in 19th century Connecticut, but awakens to the questioning of a knight curious to know his reason for trespassing in Camelot. Hank’s advanced engineering knowledge allows him to rise to a high, but precarious, position in King Arthur’s Court. As Twain uses his imaginative talents and engaging style to create a fantasy world to delight his audience, he simultaneously presents a sharply critical satire.