Who Tom Driscoll is
Tom Driscoll grows up as the heir of the Driscoll household in Dawson's Landing, a slaveholding Missouri river town. He receives toys, schooling and praise, while Chambers grows up doing chores and taking orders.
The town accepts Tom's position without knowing that Roxy switches the boys when they are babies. His place in the household lets Twain explore how privilege and upbringing shape a person's character.
What Tom Driscoll wants
Tom is always short of money, and the allowance Judge York Driscoll gives him never seems enough. He drinks, gambles and builds up debts in nearby cities, then steals from neighbors to pay what he owes.
Tom Driscoll and the others in the story
Roxy is Tom's mother, but his position forces her to call her own son young master and bow to him. She makes the exchange because she fears her child might be sold to the harsh plantations of the lower South.
Judge York Driscoll takes Tom into his household, treats him as his heir and places his hopes in him. Chambers, meanwhile, is strong, kind and brave, and often protects Tom from bullies despite their unequal positions.
Întrebări
Who is Tom Driscoll's mother?
Tom's mother is Roxana, usually called Roxy. She secretly puts him in the place of Percy Driscoll's son.
Why does Tom Driscoll steal?
Tom steals to cover the debts he builds up through his reckless habits and gambling.
Is Tom Driscoll kind?
No, Tom is selfish and spiteful, and he treats those below him cruelly. His behavior contrasts with Chambers's kindness and courage.
