* Exaggeration and Hyperbole: Twain's writing is full of wild, unbelievable events and characters. He pushes the boundaries of reality, using exaggeration and hyperbole to create humor and emphasize his points. Think of characters like Tom Sawyer, who can always talk his way out of trouble, or the jumping frog of Calaveras County, whose leaps defy all logic.
* Folklore and Oral Tradition: Twain's stories often draw on the rich folklore and oral storytelling tradition of the American West. These tales typically involve larger-than-life heroes, fantastical creatures, and incredible feats of strength and ingenuity. Twain masterfully blends these elements into his own unique style, crafting narratives that feel both rooted in the real world and wildly imaginative.
* Humor and Satire: Twain's use of tall tales is not just about creating entertaining stories. He often uses exaggeration to critique societal norms, poke fun at human follies, and highlight the absurdity of certain situations. He uses humor to expose hypocrisy, challenge authority, and ultimately, to make people think.
* Regional Dialect and Vernacular: Twain's use of regional dialect and vernacular adds to the authenticity and humor of his tall tales. He captures the voice of the American frontier, using colloquialisms and slang to create a vivid and memorable experience for the reader. This linguistic style further enhances the sense of exaggeration and hyperbole, making his stories feel both authentic and fantastical.
Overall, Mark Twain's stories are considered tall tales because they combine elements of exaggeration, folklore, humor, and regional dialect to create captivating and thought-provoking narratives that are both entertaining and insightful.