The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County

Describe two ways in which Wheeler’s speech is humorous. In each case, explain how the humor is meant to appear accidental.

What do Wheeler’s Jim Smiley stories suggest about small-town attitudes toward sophisticated visitors from the big city? What about the Narrator’s reactions to rural life?

Why does Twain use a frame for the story? What elements of theme and humor would be lost without the Narrator, his friend, and Simon Wheeler?

Why did Twain choose to set the story in a mining town? How does the setting create humor or emphasize the themes of the story?

Is Jim Smiley an honest gambler or a cheater? Support your argument with evidence from the story.

What mistake does Smiley make during his bet on the jumping frogs? How does the Stranger manipulate Smiley into making that error?

What significance do animals have in the story? Why did Twain include so many of them?

When does the Narrator realize he has been tricked? Support your answer with evidence from the story.