The idea of broad-mindedness seems at variance with Twain’s harsh comments on foreign cultures, as many of his harsher comments may be tongue-in-cheek. Yet in other respects, the principle clashes with what we have read in the book. They meet people, like the French, whose approach to life is refreshingly different from their own and from which they can learn. He and his friends see natural wonders and artistic achievements that provoke awe and wonder. In some respects, Twain’s experiences on the trip reflect this idea. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime (512). Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.
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