How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
But for an unfortunate remark of his, [Pudd'nhead] would no doubt have entered at once upon a successful career at Dawson's Landing. But he made his fatal remark the first day he spent in the village, and it "gaged" him. (1.14)
Forget that saying "you are what you eat." In Dawson's Landing, you are whatever "unfortunate remark" you happen to blurt out. Pudd'nhead's situation goes to show just how important a factor language can be in making or breaking a first impression.
Quote #2
"Said he wished he owned half of the dog, the idiot," said a third [person]. "What did he reckon would become of the other half if he killed his half? Do you reckon he thought it would live?" (1.21)
"Perfect jackass—yes, and it ain't going too far to say he is a pudd'nhead. If he ain't a pudd'nhead, I ain't no judge, that's all." (1.29)
We can't help but think Twain is having some fun here by showing that these self-appointed judges of Pudd'nhead's intelligence would themselves likely be flunking out of high school English.
Quote #3
Mr. Wilson stood elected. The incident was told all over the town, and gravely discussed by everybody. Within a week he had lost his first name; Pudd'nhead took its place. (1.30)
Meanies. These townspeople seem a lot more like bullies on a playground than credible judges of other people's characters.