Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc by Mark Twain, Fiction, Classics

The novel was initially serialized anonymously in Harper's Magazine in April 1895, allowing Twain to explore serious themes without the weight of his comedic reputation. Despite his efforts, readers quickly recognized his style, leading to the book edition's publication by Harper and Brothers in May 1896, which acknowledged Twain as the author. This approach highlights Twain's desire for the work to be taken seriously, contrasting with his established comedic persona.