Human Nature and Gender Roles in Mark Twain’s The Diaries of Adam and Eve

Mark Twain (1835-1910) presents a critical and philosophical approach to human nature and gender roles through the fictional diaries of the first humans in The Diaries of Adam and Eve (1906). Reimagining the biblical account of creation and the fall in Genesis II and III and writing sequel stories, Twain examines the multidimensional interactions between Adam and Eve using humour and his witty style by revolting against traditional religious norms. By portraying Eve as curious and scientifically minded, Twain challenges the patriarchal view of women's intellectual inferiority and subverts the traditional depiction of Eve. Additionally, these stories provide various situations in which Adam and Eve, the earliest form of man and woman, evaluate each other and draw attention to the multiple ways in which the male and female genders think, feel and make meaning. From naming animals to enduring death, their experiences reflect broader human struggles with identity, morality, and existence. In addition, the author implies that the meaning of the creation of the first human couple, who are strangers to the world and in the process of continuous education, is the love they have achieved with difficulties. Through this subtle and humorous critique, Twain expands the conversation on human nature and gender roles, questioning deep-seated social and religious prejudices. This study seeks to explore Twain's approach in The Diaries of Adam and Eve, a work that serves as a sequel to conventional biblical narratives, where he combines his literary creativity with sharp social commentaries to engage with the long-standing debates on human nature and gender roles.