Question

In a short answer where you include textual evidence for your support, answer the following question.
Consider the final sentence of the speech. What is the result of the character building Twain recommends? Who is the real target for his satire?

"Build your character thoughtfully and painstakingly upon these precepts, and by and by, when you have got it built, you will be surprised and gratified to see how nicely and sharply it resembles everybody else’s."

Answer 1

The result of the character building Twain recommends is a conformity that undermines individual authenticity. Twain's final sentence suggests that despite the effort invested in personal character, the outcome inevitably leads to a sameness: "you will be surprised and gratified to see how nicely and sharply it resembles everybody else’s." The real target of his satire is society's expectations and norms that pressure individuals to conform, thereby critiquing the superficiality of social values that prioritize appearances over genuine character.