Final answer:
Mark Twain uses hyperbole and vivid imagery to build tension in his anecdote, bringing readers into the experience with a first-person point of view and highlighting the theme of relying on training over fear.
Step-by-step explanation:
In his vivid descriptions of both the Earl and the anaconda, Mark Twain effectively employs literary devices such as hyperbole and vivid imagery to not only enhance the narrative but also to build tension. Twain, a master of American Literary Realism, is known for his skillful use of dialect, regional humor, and satire.
He often incorporated these elements into his works, creating enduring stories that addressed the societal issues of his time and showcased his experiences, such as those of becoming a riverboat pilot. In the specific anecdote referred to, Twain’s use of first-person point of view places the reader in his shoes, experiencing the same sensory events and escalating tensions as the character himself.
The depiction of Mr. Bixby and Twain’s exaggerated perception of their situation creates a palpable sense of urgency and humor, a technique that Twain utilizes to underscore the story's deeper theme: the importance of relying on one's training and knowledge rather than succumbing to fear.