Here's a breakdown of Twain's purpose:
* To expose the absurdity of fabricated last words: Twain uses humor to highlight the fact that many historical figures' last words are likely apocryphal, passed down through unreliable sources and embellished over time. He presents a series of outlandish and humorous last words attributed to famous figures, drawing attention to the lack of evidence and the tendency to create memorable pronouncements even when they're fictional.
* To critique the tendency to create myths around historical figures: Twain questions the desire to present historical figures as flawless and heroic, even in death. He satirizes the romanticized narratives that often surround their last moments, exposing how these narratives often serve to maintain a particular image rather than reflect reality.
* To highlight the importance of critical thinking and skepticism: By presenting absurd and fabricated last words, Twain encourages readers to question the information they encounter and to be skeptical of claims without evidence. He implies that historical accounts, particularly those dealing with dramatic events like death, should be examined critically.
* To entertain through wit and irony: Twain's essay is ultimately a humorous piece that employs wit and irony to make its points. He uses satire to entertain the reader while simultaneously challenging their assumptions about historical narratives.
By using humor and satire, Twain achieves a multi-layered purpose. He simultaneously entertains, criticizes historical inaccuracies, and prompts readers to think critically about the way history is presented.