Mark Twain

Born Samuel Clemens in Hannibal, Missouri, Mark Twain became one of America's best known and best loved authors. His novels such as THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN and TOM SAWYER are still read by millions today. His social commentary is also just as stinging today as it once was. This documentary looks into the life and work of the celebrated author. His life was wrought with heartbreaking tragedy as well as moments of unmatched hilarity. Using archival photography and interviews with such noted writers as Russel Banks, Arthur Miller, and William Styron, this portrait of one of the most American of all novelists is a rare look into an author's life and how he is viewed by contemporary artists in the field. The fifth of Ken Burns's "American Lives" presentations for public television.