1. Irony
After a dramatic escape, Huck states, "We was all glad as we could be, but Tom was the gladdest of all because he had a bullet in the calf of his leg." (Twain, pg. 266) This is an example of verbal irony because one is not typically happy when one is shot. Tom is probably in an immense amount of pain, and may not be giggling and smiling. Tom is a fellow who loves dramatic flare, though, and this is the perfect ending to a rascally adventure. It is as though something he has read in one of his books is actually happening to him. Since he adores grotesque and frightening occurrences such as this, he most likely is actually excited about his awful injury.
Another moment of Tom Sawyer's that exhibits his over-dramatic tendencies is when he plots the escape of Jim. He makes an elaborate scheme that is over-the-top and ridiculous. He makes it exciting and challenging, even though there are much simple ways that could achieve the desired result just the same. The plan, along with the entire voyage down the river, is ironic, because Jim has been free all along. Miss Watson had written in her will, as Tom already knows, that Jim will no longer be a slave. Thus, his ride to freedom was unnecessary, as was Huck and Tom "rescuing" him. This also meant that Tom's elaborate plan was equally as unnecessary, because it was relatively pointless, as Jim would have been freed anyways.
The voyage still remained to be necessary for both Huck and Jim. They both learned things and developed as people because of their adventure. They would not have experienced as much and gotten to know one another, and would have most likely been stuck in their old ways. Both men became much better individuals because of this journey, and without it, their lives would have not improved as much.
2. Characterization
In chapter 34, Tom and Huck device a plan to free Jim. Throughout the chapter, Tom does not question whether going on this mission is right or wrong. Huck, on the other hand, despite the fact that he is much closer to Jim, is constantly worrying and pondering whether they should be doing this. Huck wants to help his dear friend, but does not see a point as he is already free. Huck is becoming more doubtful of his decisions and deeply questions his morals now that Tom is back. He also no longer thinks rationally and realistically about situations as he had began to while traveling, but acts as though he is playing some imaginary game. He also delves back into his old ways of follow whatever Tom says, and not thinking for himself, like he had become accustomed to.
To add even more to the story, Twain introduces a new character, Nat. He is Jim's keeper, and is also a black slave. Additionally, both are very superstitious. However, Jim has become a bit more sensible, while Nat differs in this way because he is quite gullible and believes ridiculous tales of witches told by Huck and Tom. Nat is added to the story at this point, even though the novel has almost reached the end, to pack one last punch at the idea of racism. He portrays most of the stereotypes of slaves; he is superstitious, goofy, not very intelligent, confused, and easily fooled. He is, however, helpful in Tom and Huck's endeavor to free Jim from the shed.
Jim and Huck have a special relationship throughout the book. Jim cares for the young boy and watches over him. They both trust one another and are comfortable. They do have instances of trouble where Huck defies Jim, but they are resolved relatively quickly. Both men learn and grow from one another. Huck develops morals and becomes a more selfless individual, like Jim, who seems to become more confident and also more thoughtful and less foolish than he was previously. They form a great and strong bond, which is partially why Jim spared Huck the knowledge of his father's death. Most of the reason probably stemmed from Jim's wanting to continue having Huck as his travel companion. Huck had originally found Jim because he was hiding on Jackson's Island after running away from the drunk, abusive Pap. Thus, Jim may think that, because Huck no longer has anyone to run from, he may decide there is no reason for him to continuing voyaging far down the Mississippi and will return to the town, abandoning his friend. For this reason, it was a tad selfish of him not to tell Huck. He wants to keep the boy around for his own personal reasons, somewhat like Pap did. Jim was a much better adult figure in Huck's life, though. He is caring and helpful, and the only selfish ways he lives are also beneficial for the younger boy. He gets along with Huck more on a friendly level, rather than on the level of a pesky caretaker. The boys respects and adores him because of this. The two unlikely friends are the greatest companions each will ever find.
3. Tone
When Tom Sawyer reappears in the story, so does Huck's old personality. Tom brings out the childish and playful side, defeating all the maturing Huck has done on his journey. The mood of the last chapters are less serious, and the boys are their imaginative and adventurous young selves. Rescuing Jim is a dramatic production for the young men; they make it ridiculous and way more intense than it needs to be. The lighthearted feel and sense of youth fill the pages as Tom jumps back into them.
4. Theme
Tom Sawyer is a prime example of the idea of moral ambiguity. He wants to save Jim and set him free, but it is quite clear that he does so selfishly. He wishes to do it to be involved in the excitement of an adventure. He does not seem to care as much for Jim's well-being as he does for the rebellious act he is committing. This is where his morals become fuzzy; Tom is doing the right things, but for the wrong reasons. Huck also struggles with this idea, when he learns that Jim is already freed in Miss Watson's will. He questions whether or not all the effort to save him was worth it, since he would have been set free anyways. He still does the right thing by rescuing his black friend, even though there may be no real reason to do so. This further emphasizes his newly discovered maturity and selflessness.
When Tom is injured after armed men attack the shed in which Jim is kept; he escapes with a bullet wound to his leg. Jim worries about the boy, and insists they find a doctor and refuses to leave him. Huck realizes from Jim's concern that, as he states, "I knowed he was white inside..." (Twain, pg. 267) He believes he knows for sure now that Jim is a human being that possesses compassion. This again contributes to the theme of racism, as Huck once again disregards Jim (and generally all black people) as humans, just like him. He thinks before his epiphany that only white people show evidence of good characteristics such as compassion.
5. Symbolism
While sailing down the river on their raft, Huck and Jim feel free. They answer to no one but themselves, and have no orders to follow. Huck is free from the pestering of caretakers and his abusive father, while Jim is journeying towards freedom, voyaging to the free states so he will no longer be a slave and hopefully be reunited with his wife and children. This is what makes the Mississippi River a symbol of freedom. However, it is later realized that the river is not a source of freedom and a release from all troubles and worries, but simply a mean of temporary escape, where danger and problems still lurk.
The towns are another symbol in the novel. They represent the civilizing of people. Each town has various rules that the townsfolk obey, sometimes making them think cruel thoughts, and some of these rules defy logic. An example of this appears early on in the story, when the new judge of Huck's hometown do not allow the Widow Douglas or Judge Thatcher to become his guardians, and instead force him to stay with Pap, since he does not know enough of their lives to feel it is necessary to separate father and son. This shows that societies try to be civilized, but remain unconsciously uncivilized despite their efforts.
At the end of the novel, Huck does, in fact, return to town. He is going to be adopted by Aunt Sally, but does not wish to be. He says "But I reckon I got to light out for the territory ahead of the rest, because Aunt Sally she's going to adopt me and sivilize me, and I can't stand it. I been there before." (Twain, pg. 283) By saying "the territory ahead of the rest" Huck is mentioning the Indian territory to the west of the Mississippi. He still desires to live an adventurous life, and wants to remain free and uncivilized, and does not want to be made civilized by Aunt Sally.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Chapters 31-33
1. Character
The king and the duke are awful people until the end. Never do they appear to feel remorse, and they never cease their conning ways. They are even conning with another one of their performances when they are finally taken by the enraged townspeople. This concludes that they are flat, unchanging characters. The two almost seem addicted to conning, which is exhibited when they have a streak of unsuccessful endeavors and begin to become unsettled and snap at Huck and Jim frequently. The two fake royals are still selfish individuals, whereas Jim and Huck have grown into caring people that sacrifice for and go to great lengths to help the other.
2. Dramatic Irony
When Huck decides to save Jim instead of turning him in to Miss Watson, he believes he is going to hell, since he cannot pray for the wrong deed to be done. He believes he is doing the wrong thing by helping Jim to be free, when the right thing would have been to write to his owner and tell of his whereabouts. This is an example of dramatic irony because freeing Jim, at least in this day and age, is considered to be the right thing. Readers know that Huck is being smart here, while he may think he is not. Twain most likely wanted Huck's decision to be perceived as heroic and selfless; a very mature decision that shows that he has grown up and developed morals. The fact that he is doing what he feels is the good thing to do, even if it may be frowned upon by God and society, simply to help his dear friend, makes him a very brave soul.
3. Conflict
No one should ever stoop so low as to be rid of another human being just for money. The con-men do, however. Their selling of Jim signifies that they are such scoundrels and so desperate for money that they are willing to sell him. They give him away without telling Huck, the person closest to him. They will do whatever it takes to become wealthy. This could also signify how black slaves were barely considered humans during this time, thus further emphasizing Twain's views of racism and slavery. The king and duke sell Jim easily and quickly, and without any second thought, which is common and accepted. This would never be done to a white person, though.
Huck not only deals with the temporary loss of his beloved Jim, but also with his own thoughts and moral conflicts. He does not know whether he should go rescue Jim and continue to help him find freedom, or if he should write a letter to Miss Watson and tell him where he is being kept. He knows that she will simply sell him on her own if he does so. He cares for Jim and wants to assist him, but feels as though he has already helped him enough to the point where it is sinful. After much contemplation, Huck decides he values his friendship with Jim and he is going to release from captivity, not just from the Phelps, but from slavery. Even though this decision may cause him to go to hell, he tears up the already written letter and embarks on his mission.
4. Theme
Twain subtly attacks the idea of the acceptance and encouragement of racism and slavery by religions. Religious leaders and facilities believe and spread the word that slavery is right, and people that think otherwise or help the slaves, as Huck is, are sinners. At least this is what Huck has gathered from his religious knowledge. Twain does not make it obvious that he is bashing religions for supporting slavery, but the fact that Huck considers betraying his friend for the sake of religion is a way of portraying it negatively, and further emphasizes his point when Huck goes with his own gut and decides he would rather go to hell than obey what he is being commanded.
Huck arrives at the Phelps plantation and is greeted by Aunt Sally. She believes him when he tells her he is her nephew, Tom. He tells her his arrival is so late because of a blown out cylinder head on the boat he traveled on. The conversation is as follows:
"Good gracious! anybody hurt?"
"No'm. Killed a nigger."
"Well, it's lucky; because sometimes people do get hurt." (Twain, pg. 216)
This reinforces and attacks the reoccurring theme of racism. Sally and Huck talk as though the black individual is not even a human being. Tom says no one was hurt, even though a black person died, and Sally says that people could get hurt, as if one did not. This shows that people of these times thought black people were really nothing, and were not even the same species as them.
The king and the duke are awful people until the end. Never do they appear to feel remorse, and they never cease their conning ways. They are even conning with another one of their performances when they are finally taken by the enraged townspeople. This concludes that they are flat, unchanging characters. The two almost seem addicted to conning, which is exhibited when they have a streak of unsuccessful endeavors and begin to become unsettled and snap at Huck and Jim frequently. The two fake royals are still selfish individuals, whereas Jim and Huck have grown into caring people that sacrifice for and go to great lengths to help the other.
2. Dramatic Irony
When Huck decides to save Jim instead of turning him in to Miss Watson, he believes he is going to hell, since he cannot pray for the wrong deed to be done. He believes he is doing the wrong thing by helping Jim to be free, when the right thing would have been to write to his owner and tell of his whereabouts. This is an example of dramatic irony because freeing Jim, at least in this day and age, is considered to be the right thing. Readers know that Huck is being smart here, while he may think he is not. Twain most likely wanted Huck's decision to be perceived as heroic and selfless; a very mature decision that shows that he has grown up and developed morals. The fact that he is doing what he feels is the good thing to do, even if it may be frowned upon by God and society, simply to help his dear friend, makes him a very brave soul.
3. Conflict
No one should ever stoop so low as to be rid of another human being just for money. The con-men do, however. Their selling of Jim signifies that they are such scoundrels and so desperate for money that they are willing to sell him. They give him away without telling Huck, the person closest to him. They will do whatever it takes to become wealthy. This could also signify how black slaves were barely considered humans during this time, thus further emphasizing Twain's views of racism and slavery. The king and duke sell Jim easily and quickly, and without any second thought, which is common and accepted. This would never be done to a white person, though.
Huck not only deals with the temporary loss of his beloved Jim, but also with his own thoughts and moral conflicts. He does not know whether he should go rescue Jim and continue to help him find freedom, or if he should write a letter to Miss Watson and tell him where he is being kept. He knows that she will simply sell him on her own if he does so. He cares for Jim and wants to assist him, but feels as though he has already helped him enough to the point where it is sinful. After much contemplation, Huck decides he values his friendship with Jim and he is going to release from captivity, not just from the Phelps, but from slavery. Even though this decision may cause him to go to hell, he tears up the already written letter and embarks on his mission.
4. Theme
Twain subtly attacks the idea of the acceptance and encouragement of racism and slavery by religions. Religious leaders and facilities believe and spread the word that slavery is right, and people that think otherwise or help the slaves, as Huck is, are sinners. At least this is what Huck has gathered from his religious knowledge. Twain does not make it obvious that he is bashing religions for supporting slavery, but the fact that Huck considers betraying his friend for the sake of religion is a way of portraying it negatively, and further emphasizes his point when Huck goes with his own gut and decides he would rather go to hell than obey what he is being commanded.
Huck arrives at the Phelps plantation and is greeted by Aunt Sally. She believes him when he tells her he is her nephew, Tom. He tells her his arrival is so late because of a blown out cylinder head on the boat he traveled on. The conversation is as follows:
"Good gracious! anybody hurt?"
"No'm. Killed a nigger."
"Well, it's lucky; because sometimes people do get hurt." (Twain, pg. 216)
This reinforces and attacks the reoccurring theme of racism. Sally and Huck talk as though the black individual is not even a human being. Tom says no one was hurt, even though a black person died, and Sally says that people could get hurt, as if one did not. This shows that people of these times thought black people were really nothing, and were not even the same species as them.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Chapters 24-30
1. Suspense
These few chapters are filled with suspense. Huck does not seem to be in direct danger the majority of the time. The one instance where he possibly could have been is in chapter 30 when the king strangles and threatens to drown him. Luckily, though, he is rescued once again by Jim. While Huck may not have been in a lot of danger, there were several occasions where readers could feel anxious for him. When he steals the large sack of money from the duke and king in attempts to return it to the Wilks girls, there is anxiety when he is trying to be sneaky and take it from their room, and also when he attempts to hide it. He places it in Peter Wilks's coffin, but is interrupted by one of Peter's weeping daughters, Mary Jane, entering the room. He has to hide, and intensity is built when readers wonder whether or not he will be caught, and what will happen to him if he is.
There is also plenty of anxiety given to readers from the duke and the king. We wonder whether or not they will get away with this scheme, which is probably their biggest con in the novel, and wait as it unfolds. When Doctor Robinson accuses the men of being frauds, intensity builds because it seems as though they have in fact been caught. Fortunately for them, no one believed the doctor. When the two real Wilks brothers, Harvey and William, appear in town, this makes the situation even more suspenseful and exciting. Readers are on the edge of their seats, wanting to know if the crooks will be proven guilty or the Wilks' will be misjudged as fakes. Even more excitement builds when they go and begin to dig up the grave to identify the dead man's tattoo, or lack of, and we all want to know what is going to happen. So much anxiety surrounds the two con-men because readers want to know what will become of them, and the need to know results of the sticky situations they are constantly creating is apparent.
2. Foreshadowing
The king pries the blabber-mouthed young man who takes a ride on the boat with him and Huck, and milks all of the details of Peter Wilks' story from him. Readers can easily infer that the king is beginning to grow a mischievous idea in his mind while conversing with the fellow. It foreshadows that he is going to most likely use this information as a part of his next con; the young man did nearly mistake him for Mr. Wilks, so it would be a believable role for him to play. Readers know that something is going to happen involving Peter Wilks, his family, and his fortune, and it cannot be anything good if it does by the not-so-royal king and duke.
3. Dramatic Irony
As stated in the packet, dramatic irony occurs when a character in a text perceives something differently than what readers know to be true. An example of this is apparent in chapter 26 of Huck Finn when Huck steals the $6,000 of gold from the king and duke. Readers know that Huck is not a thief whatsoever. He, in fact, is trying to steal the riches back from the actual thieves and return them to the Wilks girls, the rightful owners, or at least hide them so the con-men cannot have them. However, if he were to get caught, the person spotting him would most definitely perceive the scene in a completely different way than what readers and Huck knows is actually happening. They would assume Huck is a crook, trying to take the money from his "masters" for himself, which is, obviously, not the case. It is ironic that Huck is really trying to be a hero, by committing a small crime, which happens to be almost exactly the same crime he is trying to stop.
4. Theme
On pages 180-181 in chapter 27 of Huck Finn, a small black family is torn apart. The king lies once again and says he is going to take the Wilks girls back to England with him, so he sells their house, as well as all their property, including their slaves. These slaves were a mother and her two sons; she was shipped off to New Orleans, and they went to Memphis. According to Huck it was a "sight of them poor miserable girls and niggers hanging around each other's necks and crying..." (Twain, pg. 181) This was a terrible occurrence for both the slave family and the Wilks family. It was also a scandal in the town, and a lot of townsfolk said it was wrong to separate a family that way, but the king did not listen. This questions the morals of slavery because it shows how Twain felt it was wrong that families were ripped apart like this family's was and Jim's was. This would not happen to a white family, but he does write it so even the white townspeople disagree with this decision.
5. Bildungsroman
Huck, in the beginning of the novel, is a rascally, mischievous young lad. He only cares about having fun and getting into trouble. However, later on in these chapters of the novel, we see Huck mature and be more selfless and concerned with doing what is right and good for other people. He steals the money back for the Wilks girls, which is a very risky act that could result in severe consequences for him if he were to be caught. He may use his prankster skills still, but for good now. He also cares for the other people and realizes wrong. The conning of the king and duke disgusts him, as does the separation of the slave family, but in a different way where he is deeply saddened. Huck grows up a lot in his journey, and his morals change more than anything else.
6. Motif
While the entire town is crowded in the cemetery, there is yet another thunderstorm. Huck describes it by saying "...and it got awful dark, and the rain started, and the wind swished and swushed along, and the lightning come brisker and brisker, and the thunder boomed..." (Twain, pg. 199) Cemeteries already have a gloomy vibe about them, and this weather emphasizes that. It also adds to the intensity and escalating tension and excitement of digging up the deceased Peter Wilks and discovering who is lying, and the fate of many people's lives.
These few chapters are filled with suspense. Huck does not seem to be in direct danger the majority of the time. The one instance where he possibly could have been is in chapter 30 when the king strangles and threatens to drown him. Luckily, though, he is rescued once again by Jim. While Huck may not have been in a lot of danger, there were several occasions where readers could feel anxious for him. When he steals the large sack of money from the duke and king in attempts to return it to the Wilks girls, there is anxiety when he is trying to be sneaky and take it from their room, and also when he attempts to hide it. He places it in Peter Wilks's coffin, but is interrupted by one of Peter's weeping daughters, Mary Jane, entering the room. He has to hide, and intensity is built when readers wonder whether or not he will be caught, and what will happen to him if he is.
There is also plenty of anxiety given to readers from the duke and the king. We wonder whether or not they will get away with this scheme, which is probably their biggest con in the novel, and wait as it unfolds. When Doctor Robinson accuses the men of being frauds, intensity builds because it seems as though they have in fact been caught. Fortunately for them, no one believed the doctor. When the two real Wilks brothers, Harvey and William, appear in town, this makes the situation even more suspenseful and exciting. Readers are on the edge of their seats, wanting to know if the crooks will be proven guilty or the Wilks' will be misjudged as fakes. Even more excitement builds when they go and begin to dig up the grave to identify the dead man's tattoo, or lack of, and we all want to know what is going to happen. So much anxiety surrounds the two con-men because readers want to know what will become of them, and the need to know results of the sticky situations they are constantly creating is apparent.
2. Foreshadowing
The king pries the blabber-mouthed young man who takes a ride on the boat with him and Huck, and milks all of the details of Peter Wilks' story from him. Readers can easily infer that the king is beginning to grow a mischievous idea in his mind while conversing with the fellow. It foreshadows that he is going to most likely use this information as a part of his next con; the young man did nearly mistake him for Mr. Wilks, so it would be a believable role for him to play. Readers know that something is going to happen involving Peter Wilks, his family, and his fortune, and it cannot be anything good if it does by the not-so-royal king and duke.
3. Dramatic Irony
As stated in the packet, dramatic irony occurs when a character in a text perceives something differently than what readers know to be true. An example of this is apparent in chapter 26 of Huck Finn when Huck steals the $6,000 of gold from the king and duke. Readers know that Huck is not a thief whatsoever. He, in fact, is trying to steal the riches back from the actual thieves and return them to the Wilks girls, the rightful owners, or at least hide them so the con-men cannot have them. However, if he were to get caught, the person spotting him would most definitely perceive the scene in a completely different way than what readers and Huck knows is actually happening. They would assume Huck is a crook, trying to take the money from his "masters" for himself, which is, obviously, not the case. It is ironic that Huck is really trying to be a hero, by committing a small crime, which happens to be almost exactly the same crime he is trying to stop.
4. Theme
On pages 180-181 in chapter 27 of Huck Finn, a small black family is torn apart. The king lies once again and says he is going to take the Wilks girls back to England with him, so he sells their house, as well as all their property, including their slaves. These slaves were a mother and her two sons; she was shipped off to New Orleans, and they went to Memphis. According to Huck it was a "sight of them poor miserable girls and niggers hanging around each other's necks and crying..." (Twain, pg. 181) This was a terrible occurrence for both the slave family and the Wilks family. It was also a scandal in the town, and a lot of townsfolk said it was wrong to separate a family that way, but the king did not listen. This questions the morals of slavery because it shows how Twain felt it was wrong that families were ripped apart like this family's was and Jim's was. This would not happen to a white family, but he does write it so even the white townspeople disagree with this decision.
5. Bildungsroman
Huck, in the beginning of the novel, is a rascally, mischievous young lad. He only cares about having fun and getting into trouble. However, later on in these chapters of the novel, we see Huck mature and be more selfless and concerned with doing what is right and good for other people. He steals the money back for the Wilks girls, which is a very risky act that could result in severe consequences for him if he were to be caught. He may use his prankster skills still, but for good now. He also cares for the other people and realizes wrong. The conning of the king and duke disgusts him, as does the separation of the slave family, but in a different way where he is deeply saddened. Huck grows up a lot in his journey, and his morals change more than anything else.
6. Motif
While the entire town is crowded in the cemetery, there is yet another thunderstorm. Huck describes it by saying "...and it got awful dark, and the rain started, and the wind swished and swushed along, and the lightning come brisker and brisker, and the thunder boomed..." (Twain, pg. 199) Cemeteries already have a gloomy vibe about them, and this weather emphasizes that. It also adds to the intensity and escalating tension and excitement of digging up the deceased Peter Wilks and discovering who is lying, and the fate of many people's lives.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Chapters 19-23
1. Imagery
In the beginning of chapter 19, after
Huck and Jim have reunited and set sail again, Huck narrates how they spend
their time over these two or three days. He describes how quiet it was, with
not a sound to be heard except the occasional "bullfrogs a-cluttering,
maybe." This allows readers to gain knowledge of the quiet, peaceful
solitude the two are thoroughly enjoying. Sometimes, though, Huck states that
"sometimes you could hear a sweep screaking; or jumbled-up voices, it was
so still, and sounds come so far..." which also depicts the quiet of the
river was. As the day goes on, the songbirds stir up and emphasize the joy of
their current place.
Huck could also see the beauty of the earth while
sitting and watching the day begin. He mentions the "dull line" over
the water, which was the woods on the other side of the river. He talks about
how the sky's colors changed, and the "pale place" that spread all
over and made the water less dark. He watches "he mist curl up off of the
water" and spots a log cabin in the woods. Readers establish the time of
day, and once again the beauty of the area.
When a "nice breeze springs up," Huck
senses the sweet aroma that is "so cool and fresh and sweet to smell on
account of the woods and the flowers..." but also the repulsive scent of
the dead fish. The sense of touch is also described, as the feel of the river
is illustrated. The two men dipped into the river after setting their lines to
"freshen up and cool off," which shows that the water was nice, clean,
and cold. The sand also depicts how the river felt. All of these images touch
on the senses and make readers understand the beautiful calm Huck and Jim have
reached after a bit of chaos.
2. Characterization
Huck observes a "moaning and mourning" Jim for many of the nights they are together. He knows that Jim misses his wife and children greatly, and is awfully homesick. With this knowledge, Huck has the epiphany that black people "cared just as much for [their] people as white folks does for their'n." (Twain, pg. 155) This is Twain once again addressing the theme of racism, but specifically racial equality, for black and white individuals are almost the same. While people in the days of which Huck and Jim lived did not believe they were similar, they have all of the same qualities, apart from their complexions.
5. Pathos
An obvious example of a character in chapter 23 that is a helpless, innocent victim is Jim's daughter, Lizabeth. Jim is unaware that she has become deaf due to scarlet fever, and believes she is not listening to him and being disrespectful when he tells her to shut the door, so he hits her and causes her to fall down and weep. It is not her fault she is deaf and could not hear her father's orders, but she suffers because of it. This tugs at the heartstrings of readers, because of her inability to help herself. We feel instant pity for her because of her disability, but even more when Jim reacts so negatively towards her. We understand the remorse and mistake that Jim feels and it causes a tenderness within us.
25: Narrator and Point of View
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is told from the first person point of view from Huck himself. This omits a main character from the novel because the text is not about Huck often, even though his name is in the title. He is always talking about other characters and simply his interactions with them. The chapters focus on other major characters, from Pap, to Jim, to the Grangerfords. A main character cannot be identified because each part of the story has a different one, but it is not ever Huck.
Huck is a youthful narrator, and his personality and some views make that obvious. This influences how readers will interpret the novel because his views may not be fully developed. As a child, he does not know very much about a lot of aspects of life, such as morals and ways the world works. This means that readers can rely on what Huck is narrating, because it is his story. However, the narration of serious topics coming from a child is what produces a lot of the satire in this book, so they need to realize some things may not be accurate interpretations coming from Huck's perspective.
Huck is a youthful narrator, and his personality and some views make that obvious. This influences how readers will interpret the novel because his views may not be fully developed. As a child, he does not know very much about a lot of aspects of life, such as morals and ways the world works. This means that readers can rely on what Huck is narrating, because it is his story. However, the narration of serious topics coming from a child is what produces a lot of the satire in this book, so they need to realize some things may not be accurate interpretations coming from Huck's perspective.
23: Frame Story
The entirety of chapter 18 is basically a frame story. It takes a break from the plot thus far of Jim and Huck's escapade, and focuses on developing the Grangerfords as characters, at least in the beginning. A more specific frame story begins on page 110 though, when Buck begins to tell Huck the tale of the feud between his family and the Shepherdsons. He explains why he tries to kill Harney, but says that no one remembers why it started.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
24: Situational Irony
The sermon delivered at church could not be any more fitting than it was when the Grangerfords' and Shepherdsons' attend at the same time. The sermon was "all about brotherly love, and such-like tiresomeness." It is ironic because the families have a deep hatred for one another, and will not ever bond as brothers. This is further emphasized as they hide their rifles with them in the church. They have basically been at war for quite some time now. This feud does not even begin to fade after what the characters stated was a good sermon, but instead climaxes with a gun battle in the woods. This results in the death of Buck, his father, brothers, and cousin, along with a couple Shepherdson family members.
22: Foil
Buck and Huck have several similarities. Their names only differ by a single letter, and they are approximately the same age. The two also develop a friendship rather quickly. Buck was raised in a classy, loving, wealthy family, while Huck was brought up in quite the opposite environment, being poor with an abusive, alcoholic father who was barely around. However, Huck seems to have better sense than the Grangerfords. They are in a feud with the Shepherdsons, and a few family members from each group have been killed because of this ridiculous spat. No one can remember the way this fight has started. Huck seems to somewhat realize how awful this fight is, which shows that a better upbringing may not make an individual superior. The boys are different in the way they grew-up, but also in the way they act now because of this.
21: Satire
Satire continues to be a prominent feature in this novel. In chapter 17, one example would be Huck's forgetfulness of his fake name. It is dramatic irony when he does not remember that he is known as George Jackson, which causes him to ask Buck if he can spell it, so he will be reminded. He then memorizes how to spell the name so he is able to do it if he is ever asked to do so. It also seems ironic that Huck loves his time in the home and has a great feeling of happiness, but Emmeline, the deceased daughter, seemed to live a rather melancholic life. She had a fascination with death and created multiple poems and art pieces that were dark and depressing. It seems interesting that they both had such different experiences in the home they lived in at the same age. Chapter 18 also brings dramatic irony, when Huck is uncomfortable with a servant waiting on him. Each Grangerford family member has one, but he does not feel right about having his wait on him hand and foot, even though slavery was obviously perfectly normal during this time. This most likely developed from his friendship with Jim. Another example of irony is when the Grangerfords and Shepherdsons attend church together, but have their rifles hidden with them, and the sermon speaks of brotherhood. Not only is having a lethal weapon in a church ironic, but so is this idea of the two families hating each other despite hearing these words of how they should band together.
Twain also satirizes Emmeline Grangerford's morbid poetry, as well as the idea of feuding families. He most likely does this to show that families may seem lovely and put-together on the outside, but every one is dysfunctional in their own way. This shows that even seemingly perfect families can mess things up, which he shows through the ridiculous feud between the Grangerfords and Shepherdsons, and the sadness of the dead daughter.
Twain also satirizes Emmeline Grangerford's morbid poetry, as well as the idea of feuding families. He most likely does this to show that families may seem lovely and put-together on the outside, but every one is dysfunctional in their own way. This shows that even seemingly perfect families can mess things up, which he shows through the ridiculous feud between the Grangerfords and Shepherdsons, and the sadness of the dead daughter.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
20: Characterization
A prominent theme of this novel is "coming of age." Huck starts out the novel as an immature, mischievous young boy, but as the book progresses, particularly in chapters 12-16, readers see him begin to grow up. He is becoming a more responsible individual, as well as beginning to reason and contemplate his morals. He is starting to decipher rights from wrongs, and seems as though he wants to do the right and good things now, as opposed to stirring up trouble like he once was quite fond of.
Huck does still possess his quick wit despite his maturing mind. He is still able to get out of situations by using this cleverness he is gifted with. This becomes most helpful when he creates the fantastic story for the ferry watchman of his family being stranded on the Walter Scott, and he convinces the watchman to go rescue this non-existent family. He may be becoming a young man quickly, but his creativity and rascal-like tendencies will most likely never completely vanish.
This wit does get Huck into yet another sticky situation, however. After being separated from Jim in the fog, his canoe being pulled away from the raft, they are reunited. Jim had slept through that event, but is still thrilled when they are brought back together. Huck manages to convince Jim that he had dreamed the whole thing. Later, though, Jim notices the debris on the raft and becomes angry with Huck for lying and making a fool of him. He makes Huck feel guilty, because he was very concerned for his safety. Huck narrates, "It was fifteen minutes before I could work myself up to go and humble myself to a nigger; but I done it, and i warn't ever sorry for it afterwards, neither." (Twain, pg. 90) He apologizes to Jim because he genuinely feels bad for hurting him. This shows that the two are now true friends, and the differences of their skin colors no longer seem to matter in their relationship.
Huck does still possess his quick wit despite his maturing mind. He is still able to get out of situations by using this cleverness he is gifted with. This becomes most helpful when he creates the fantastic story for the ferry watchman of his family being stranded on the Walter Scott, and he convinces the watchman to go rescue this non-existent family. He may be becoming a young man quickly, but his creativity and rascal-like tendencies will most likely never completely vanish.
This wit does get Huck into yet another sticky situation, however. After being separated from Jim in the fog, his canoe being pulled away from the raft, they are reunited. Jim had slept through that event, but is still thrilled when they are brought back together. Huck manages to convince Jim that he had dreamed the whole thing. Later, though, Jim notices the debris on the raft and becomes angry with Huck for lying and making a fool of him. He makes Huck feel guilty, because he was very concerned for his safety. Huck narrates, "It was fifteen minutes before I could work myself up to go and humble myself to a nigger; but I done it, and i warn't ever sorry for it afterwards, neither." (Twain, pg. 90) He apologizes to Jim because he genuinely feels bad for hurting him. This shows that the two are now true friends, and the differences of their skin colors no longer seem to matter in their relationship.
19: Figurative Language
The first paragraph of chapter 13 is hyperbolic. In it, readers can comprehend the level of fear both Jim and Huck experience when they think their raft has floated away, and they are stuck dangerously close to seemingly murderous robbers. Huck narrates "Well, I catched my breath and most fainted," which depicts that he was startled and shocked by this occurrence. The paragraph also states that Jim was "so scared he hadn't hardly any strength left." This, again, emphasizes the terror the duo was suffering from and creates an understanding of the stress of this situation.
The last line of this chapter is also an example of figurative language. It is as follows: "By the time I got there the sky was beginning to get a little gray in the east; so we struck for an island, and hid the raft, and sunk the skiff, and turned in and slept like dead people." (Twain, pg. 81) This sentence is a simile that describes the very deep sleep Huck and Jim fell into after their troublesome day. It illustrates that they were sleeping so soundly that were like dead people, or, in other words, dead to the outside world. They were so exhausted nothing would cause them to stir and they would most likely sleep for a very long time.
The last line of this chapter is also an example of figurative language. It is as follows: "By the time I got there the sky was beginning to get a little gray in the east; so we struck for an island, and hid the raft, and sunk the skiff, and turned in and slept like dead people." (Twain, pg. 81) This sentence is a simile that describes the very deep sleep Huck and Jim fell into after their troublesome day. It illustrates that they were sleeping so soundly that were like dead people, or, in other words, dead to the outside world. They were so exhausted nothing would cause them to stir and they would most likely sleep for a very long time.
18: Conflict
Huck has a hard decision to make in chapter 16. He has to choose between the women who have cared for him and his new dear friend. He is unsure if he should help Jim escape from his owner,especially after he hears his plans to rescue, or possibly steal, his family. He feels as though it would be a wrong-doing to Miss Watson, who has done so much for him, if he assists her ex-slave. He almost gives Jim up when they believe they have reached Cairo, but changes his mind when an ecstatic Jim says "Jim won't ever forgit you, Huck; you's de bes' fren' Jim's ever had; en you's de only fren' ole Jim's got now." (Twain, pg. 93) He also mentions that Huck is the only person to ever keep a promise to him. Huck resolves his internal moral conflict by deciding to not worry about what is right and wrong, because that is too hard to answer. He convinced himself it is best to simply act on whichever option seems "handiest," which in this case, was continuing on in his mission with Jim.
Monday, October 20, 2014
17: Symbol
Runaways typically crave one thing: freedom. This case is not different for the two runaways of this novel, Jim and Huck. The Mississippi River symbolizes this freedom for the two. While they are sailing on their raft, or resting on the shore, they answer to no one but one another, and it seems as though nothing can catch them. The river takes them anywhere, and keeps them from things. It carries Huck further from Pap and the pecking of his caregivers in the town, and lifts Jim on his way to a free state and closer to his family.
A fog arises on the river later in the novel, which causes Huck and Jim to become separated and lost for a bit. This fog could represent blindness, particularly targeted at Huck. He is already a free young man, he is not enslaved and about to be sold off, like Jim is. He had every reason to escape his cruel, drunken father, but the right thing to do would have been to return to the town and be taken care of by the widow or the judge, despite their annoying "pecking." Huck could have been a happy, educated lad spending time with his friends if he would have returned to the town, and he would have most likely been protected from Pap. He, basically, would have had everything Jim wants. This could also explain the symbolism of Jim and Huck being separated as they sail through the fog. Jim needs to run away if he wants to find his family and freedom, but Huck does not. Realistically, Huck should return home, and Jim should keep going. However, the struggles in the fog also show how much the two really need one another, and they continue on their free way.
A fog arises on the river later in the novel, which causes Huck and Jim to become separated and lost for a bit. This fog could represent blindness, particularly targeted at Huck. He is already a free young man, he is not enslaved and about to be sold off, like Jim is. He had every reason to escape his cruel, drunken father, but the right thing to do would have been to return to the town and be taken care of by the widow or the judge, despite their annoying "pecking." Huck could have been a happy, educated lad spending time with his friends if he would have returned to the town, and he would have most likely been protected from Pap. He, basically, would have had everything Jim wants. This could also explain the symbolism of Jim and Huck being separated as they sail through the fog. Jim needs to run away if he wants to find his family and freedom, but Huck does not. Realistically, Huck should return home, and Jim should keep going. However, the struggles in the fog also show how much the two really need one another, and they continue on their free way.
16: Foil
Jim is clearly a better a father figure than Pap, Huck's biological father, ever was and ever will be. Jim cares for Huck and attempts to keep him safe by telling him of the bad things that are coming and simply looking out for his well-being. He worries about Huck and makes sure he is as safe as possible. He is also open with Huck, which is shown when he answers his questions and discusses life with him. Pap would most likely never have sat down and had a nice conversation with his son, even if he was intoxicated. He even protects Huck from seeing some of the horrors of the world when he covers up the dead man in the floating house so he cannot see it. He makes sure that Huck is well disguised when he ventures into town so that he remains hidden. Huck, while it is not blatantly stated, feels safe with Jim, and has a much better relationship with him than he did with Pap.
15: Motif
As has already been acknowledged, Jim is a superstitious fellow. He believes in crazy things, such as birds showing signs of rain. When he spots young birds soaring in the sky "a yard or two at a time and lighting," (Twain, pg. 52) he says rain is coming because of the way in which they are flying. Jim is, in fact, correct in his prediction. He also warns Huck to not touch a snakeskin, for it will bring the worst of luck. At first, after finding the dead man's house and dozens of treasures, Huck does not believe this myth because of the good fortune they have been having. But, unfortunately, their luck ends when Jim is bit by the snake and has to wait for four days for it to heal. Jim's "signs" may seem ridiculous, but perhaps they are correct, and not simply coincidental occurrences.
Huck questions Jim and wonders why his signs only predict bad luck. Jim responds, "What you want to know when good luck's a-comin' for? Want to keep it off?" (Twain, pg. 52-53) This is actually a rather logical response, and makes his seemingly negative outlook on life make more sense. Good luck is, obviously, good, and is going to make one's life better or happier. If all the good fortune that is going to come to people is told to them, what are they going to do about it? Nothing, except sit around and wait. Bad luck is something people want to prevent, which is why Jim's signs tell him of these things coming, so he can figure out ways to make it less of a bad thing, like preparing their materials for the storm. Good luck should be something that people are surprised by and get pleasure from, and knowing that it is coming will defeat these aspects of it.
Jim and Huck are inhabiting the caves and caverns of the Mississippi Valley for similar reasons; they are both escapees in hiding. These crevices in the earth illustrate the need for refuge that the two desire. Neither one of them wants to be caught, because terrible things could happen to each individual. They also offer a means of shelter, and most importantly, protection from both being caught and the natural elements of the earth. Safety is what matters most, and these caves will deliver this want to the two men.
Huck questions Jim and wonders why his signs only predict bad luck. Jim responds, "What you want to know when good luck's a-comin' for? Want to keep it off?" (Twain, pg. 52-53) This is actually a rather logical response, and makes his seemingly negative outlook on life make more sense. Good luck is, obviously, good, and is going to make one's life better or happier. If all the good fortune that is going to come to people is told to them, what are they going to do about it? Nothing, except sit around and wait. Bad luck is something people want to prevent, which is why Jim's signs tell him of these things coming, so he can figure out ways to make it less of a bad thing, like preparing their materials for the storm. Good luck should be something that people are surprised by and get pleasure from, and knowing that it is coming will defeat these aspects of it.
Jim and Huck are inhabiting the caves and caverns of the Mississippi Valley for similar reasons; they are both escapees in hiding. These crevices in the earth illustrate the need for refuge that the two desire. Neither one of them wants to be caught, because terrible things could happen to each individual. They also offer a means of shelter, and most importantly, protection from both being caught and the natural elements of the earth. Safety is what matters most, and these caves will deliver this want to the two men.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
14: Satire
Huck wakes up on his first morning as a free young man on the shore. He hears the cannons looking for him and continues to hide, but realizes how hungry he is. He remembers that the townsfolk always send loaves of bread with quicksilver in them to find corpses, so he decides to wait and watch for the bread intended to discover his non-existent corpse. The bread appears, and he enjoys it and thinks. He narrates "And then something struck me. I says, now I reckon the widow or the parson or somebody prayed that this bread would find me, and here it has gone and done it." (Twain, pg. 45) He believes that the bread has come to him because someone has asked through prayer that he receive this nourishment. This is a satirical dig by Twain at people who believe religion is simply that one always gets what one wants by asking for it by praying and believing. It is an uneducated and unrealistic view of religion and life.
13: Theme
When Huck kills a snake in the cavern, he plays what he feel is a friendly, harmless prank on Jim by he setting it on his sleeping area. His intent in doing this is simply to amuse himself. Giving Jim a bit of fright would be humorous for him and most likely a funny bonding moment for him and and his companion once it is realized to be a joke.
However, the dead snake's mate appears and bites Jim on his heel. His foot swells and he is in severe pain, and Huck feels guilty. He also feels as though he is very foolish, since he forgot that a dead snake's mate always finds their other half. Since he feels regretful, it is obvious that he cares for Jim and feels bad for hurting him, for his intent was rather the opposite. This also begins to bring up the idea that he is becoming a more mature young man because he realizes his actions were foolish and decides to not do such a thing again.
The themes of loyalty and unity are prominent throughout the novel, but particularly in these few chapters. Jim and Huck have formed an unusual but great bond. Huck has an attachment to the ex-slave and does not want to turn him in, no matter how much money he would receive, because one does not do that to a friend. It also presents the idea of unity, because the two escapees have survived and worked very well together for some time now. Huck may have realized that he would not be as well-off, and would be quite lonesome yet again, without the company of Jim. They are united like brothers, and Huck is intelligent enough to not soil that relationship.
However, the dead snake's mate appears and bites Jim on his heel. His foot swells and he is in severe pain, and Huck feels guilty. He also feels as though he is very foolish, since he forgot that a dead snake's mate always finds their other half. Since he feels regretful, it is obvious that he cares for Jim and feels bad for hurting him, for his intent was rather the opposite. This also begins to bring up the idea that he is becoming a more mature young man because he realizes his actions were foolish and decides to not do such a thing again.
The themes of loyalty and unity are prominent throughout the novel, but particularly in these few chapters. Jim and Huck have formed an unusual but great bond. Huck has an attachment to the ex-slave and does not want to turn him in, no matter how much money he would receive, because one does not do that to a friend. It also presents the idea of unity, because the two escapees have survived and worked very well together for some time now. Huck may have realized that he would not be as well-off, and would be quite lonesome yet again, without the company of Jim. They are united like brothers, and Huck is intelligent enough to not soil that relationship.
12: Figurative Language
Multiple examples of figurative language are prominent throughout The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The given passage shows quite a few of these language tools. Personification is used in line 8, when the narration is describing the gusts of wind and said they "...set the branches to tossing their arms as if they was just wild..." This gives human-like characteristics of having movable limbs to the trees, which are obviously inhuman, inanimate objects. Another tool used is repetition, as Twain writes that the thunder crashed and then went "...rumbling, grumbling, tumbling, down the sky towards the under side of the world...," which is also followed by another tool, a simile, "...like rolling empty barrels down-stairs-where it's long stairs and they bounce a good deal, you know." A simile is also used when the sky is depicted as being "...as bright as glory..." and "...dark as sin..." A small example of onomatopoeia is found when Huck narrates "...when it was just the bluest and blackest-fst!" The unreal "fst" word is used to create the sound that the trees are making as the wind blows in them.These are merely a few of the ways Mark Twain enriches his work.
Monday, October 13, 2014
11: Situational Irony
Huck's "murder" is a tragedy that seems to shake his small town, so it does make sense that a crowd of people that were close to him were searching for his remains on the steamboat. However, wouldn't it make more sense, if they truly cared for him, to go looking at the shanty to see what they could find there? It is quite ironic that they did not do such a thing. They did not care to attempt to see if they could find remains there, or possibly save Huck if they were to find him alive. It would definitely be smarter for the crowd to search the area around the shanty as well as the surrounding waters.
The time period of which this novel takes place is, if it hasn't already been made obvious, a time when black individuals were inferior to white individuals, and they were typically enslaved. Since African-Americans were supposedly less important than white Americans, it would make sense that the award for a white man would be greater than that for a black man. This is not the case in this novel though, since the award for finding Jim is three hundred dollars, as opposed to the two hundred being offered for pap. This could perhaps be because people would rather have a black man behind bars than a white man, but it is still ironic. It is also ironic because pap is believed to be responsible for killing his son, while all Jim did was run away. One would think that the award for finding a murderer would be higher than that of a runaway man. Again, society would be happier having a slave behind bars than a free man. During this time the crime of a slave running away must have been a very severe act.
The time period of which this novel takes place is, if it hasn't already been made obvious, a time when black individuals were inferior to white individuals, and they were typically enslaved. Since African-Americans were supposedly less important than white Americans, it would make sense that the award for a white man would be greater than that for a black man. This is not the case in this novel though, since the award for finding Jim is three hundred dollars, as opposed to the two hundred being offered for pap. This could perhaps be because people would rather have a black man behind bars than a white man, but it is still ironic. It is also ironic because pap is believed to be responsible for killing his son, while all Jim did was run away. One would think that the award for finding a murderer would be higher than that of a runaway man. Again, society would be happier having a slave behind bars than a free man. During this time the crime of a slave running away must have been a very severe act.
10: Imagery
We as readers are made to visualize a dark scene from Twain's words at the end of chapter seven. This is after Huck has escaped from pap and the shanty and is now finding refuge on a different shore. "The moon was so bright I could 'a' counted the drift logs that went a-slipping along, black and still, hundreds of yards out from shore. Everything was dead quiet, and it looked late, and smelt late." (Twain, pg. 42) This is the first example of imagery Twain used to describe the darkness and late hour Huck is living in. He also illustrates the pitch-black of the night when he explains that Huck cannot make out the figure of pap sailing down the water in a canoe. Other examples of this imagery would be when Huck, as the narrator, thinks, "The sky looks ever so deep when you lay down on your back in the moonshine..." (Twain, pg. 43) and he also depicts the sight of Jackson's Island as "...big and dark and solid, like a steamboat without any lights." (Twain, pg. 43) Gradually the setting becomes slightly brighter though, as a few lights can be seen from the distant town and lanterns down the stream are visible. The sky also becomes "a little gray" as Huck decides it is time for breakfast, which contains the dark intense imagery, but begins to lighten the mood a bit.
9: Suspense
In chapter seven, Huck escapes the shanty and the custody of his father. He manages to get out through a hole, and makes a convincing scene that appears as though he has been murdered. He then canoes far away from that shore. The suspense is built because this particular adventure of Huck's is very risky. Every minute there is potential for him to get caught by Pap, and only awful consequences for him could follow his discovery. Huck is nearly discovered when a ferry boat that holds all the people concerned for him sails dangerously close to him. Readers are kept in suspense during this chapter because, not only is Huck's escape very exciting, but we are kept on the edge of our seats to see whether he will be discovered, or if his escapade will be successful.
8: Theme
Twain uses one of Pap's drunken rants to question the morality of slavery in chapter six. He talks about a well-off black man that was free because he had not lived in the state long enough to be sold as a slave. He was an intelligent man; a college professor that knew many languages. He was also nice looking, had fancy things, and could even vote. Pap is complaining about how awful the government is for allowing this man to not be sold for six months, and letting him be free and successful. The way Twain writes this passage, on pages 35-36, has the potential to make readers realize that slavery is ridiculous, because the African-Americans being sold may be even better people than the white individuals purchasing them.
7: Foreshadowing
Chapter 4 makes it clear that trouble is coming Huck's way. Part of this trouble is called Pap. Huck knows that his father has returned to town and he knows he will find him soon, but has no idea what he will want. According to Jim's hair-ball, Pap has no idea what he is going to do either. Jim proclaims to Huck that his hair-ball also says, "You gwyne to have considable trouble in yo' life, en considable joy. Sometimes you gwyne to git hurt, en sometimes you gwyne to git sick; but every time you's gwyne to git well ag'in." (Twain, pg. 27) This allows readers to infer that difficult times will be coming to Huck soon, but he is going to get through it, and he will always be alright.
It turns out in the beginning of chapter 6 that Pap does indeed force himself back into Huck's life. He tries, but fails, to get the money, and takes Huck out of school and moves them to a shanty away from town. At first the conditions of the new life seem awful, as Huck is basically kept prisoner in the little cabin. He begins to enjoy it, however, showing that the trouble could become o.k.. Later in the chapter, when Pap has a dreadful nightmare and attacks his son in his sleep, Huck's outlook is bleak, but he manages to escape, and once again, all things are well.
It turns out in the beginning of chapter 6 that Pap does indeed force himself back into Huck's life. He tries, but fails, to get the money, and takes Huck out of school and moves them to a shanty away from town. At first the conditions of the new life seem awful, as Huck is basically kept prisoner in the little cabin. He begins to enjoy it, however, showing that the trouble could become o.k.. Later in the chapter, when Pap has a dreadful nightmare and attacks his son in his sleep, Huck's outlook is bleak, but he manages to escape, and once again, all things are well.
6: Motif
Huck becomes rather irrational when he reacts to the footprints. He barely hesitates after spotting it before running for his life to Judge Thatcher's house and attempting to give away his large amount of money. Readers can infer from this reaction that Huck is afraid of his father. We can also begin to acknowledge his father's motivation for returning to the town, which is to take Huck's money for his own, since Huck's first act is to get rid of it. After seeing the footprints, Huck also resorts to supernatural ways to get answers. He goes to Jim and asks what Pap is going to do and if he is going to stay, and Jim listens to his special hair-ball for the answers.
Superstition is a main theme of this novel. Huck and Jim have several superstitions, one which is introduced in the very beginning on page 13. Huck flicks a spider into a candle and kills it, which he believes will bring him bad luck. He tries to fend off the potential misfortunes by taking off his clothes, turning in his tracks three times while crossing his chest, and tying a lock of hair with a thread, to, apparently, keep witches away, since he does not have a horseshoe to nail up. All because of the simple murder of a pesky insect. Jim has superstitions along with his hair-ball. After Huck and Tom Sawyer are nearly caught sneaking out by him, they move his hat and tie him up, and Jim thinks he has been attacked by witches. He wears the five-cent piece that Tom had left, except he says it was given to him by the devil, because he believes he will be able to summon witches and cure everything with it. They all work so hard to prevent things developed in their own imaginations from occurring.
Superstition is a main theme of this novel. Huck and Jim have several superstitions, one which is introduced in the very beginning on page 13. Huck flicks a spider into a candle and kills it, which he believes will bring him bad luck. He tries to fend off the potential misfortunes by taking off his clothes, turning in his tracks three times while crossing his chest, and tying a lock of hair with a thread, to, apparently, keep witches away, since he does not have a horseshoe to nail up. All because of the simple murder of a pesky insect. Jim has superstitions along with his hair-ball. After Huck and Tom Sawyer are nearly caught sneaking out by him, they move his hat and tie him up, and Jim thinks he has been attacked by witches. He wears the five-cent piece that Tom had left, except he says it was given to him by the devil, because he believes he will be able to summon witches and cure everything with it. They all work so hard to prevent things developed in their own imaginations from occurring.
5: Motivation
Pap only has two things on his mind: money and alcohol. This is made evident not only by his constant state of drunkenness, but by his return into Huck's life, which is motivated solely by his desire to take Huck's earnings and make them his own. A potential other motivator for Pap could be the idea of clearing his name. Most of the town believes he is dead from drowning, and he is remembered as an abusive father and a drunk. He could think that getting this money will redeem him because people will perhaps admire him for being rich. There may also be the slight chance that, despite his awful behavior towards Huck, that he wants to be closer to his son, and maybe become a better parent.
Pap does not get this opportunity to be a shining father figure, however, because Huck plots his escape shortly after their move to the shanty. His motivation sprouted from the fear he had of his father. This fear reaches its peak the night before his escapade, when Pap has a wild nightmare and nearly kills him, then forgets the entire thing upon awakening. Huck seems to decide he has had enough at this point. While he no longer wants to be in the custody of his father, he also does not want to return to the "pecking" of the Widow Douglas and Miss Watson, so he simply runs away, setting up quite an elaborate scene, and voyages on his own.
Pap does not get this opportunity to be a shining father figure, however, because Huck plots his escape shortly after their move to the shanty. His motivation sprouted from the fear he had of his father. This fear reaches its peak the night before his escapade, when Pap has a wild nightmare and nearly kills him, then forgets the entire thing upon awakening. Huck seems to decide he has had enough at this point. While he no longer wants to be in the custody of his father, he also does not want to return to the "pecking" of the Widow Douglas and Miss Watson, so he simply runs away, setting up quite an elaborate scene, and voyages on his own.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
4: Syntax
This passage depicts the ridiculous and extreme rules the young boys of the gang create. It involves violent acts of murder that will be bestowed on any lad that breaks these rules by leaking their secrets. This emphasizes the first-person point of view of Huck because readers believe the rules more since Huck is describing them. If some unknown narrator was running off the list, the absurdity of them would be more obvious, but since Huck believes in them and, as he says, "everybody was willing," they seem more real. This characterizes Huck even further by illustrating in even more depth his fearlessness, but also unawareness of the world. He talks of killing others and possibly having to punish his friends as if it is not a big deal and the rules are completely normal. This also describes his wild imagination even further.
3: Narrator and Point of View
Huckleberry Finn narrates this story about himself, making the point of view of this novel first-person. From this, readers can expect to get a more in-depth description of the character and know that characters emotions and the details of the action he/she is involved in. At one point, Huck says, "I felt so lonesome I most wished I was dead." This states exactly how he feeling, and the level of intensity of which he felt that emotion, and you knew this is right because the person feeling it stated it. This also describes how he is feeling without simply writing, "Huck was lonely." Twain uses humor through this point of view because this allows for Huck's snarky and thoughtful attitude to be exposed, and Heck's wit makes for a casual, conversational narration. The improper grammar makes it seem as though the narration is really just Huck talking to the readers comfortably.
2: Characterization
There is no doubt Huckleberry Finn is a rebellious youngster. Twain makes this obvious when he illustrates the relationship between Huck and his caretakers, the Widow Douglas and Miss Watson. They are training him to become a good and better young man, and irritate Huck with their pestering. One night, when Huck sneaks out to go join and plot with Tom Sawyer and the gang, he returns dirty and tired, unable to hide the evidence of his escapade. The Widow Douglas did not scold him like Miss Watson, but "...only cleaned off the grease and clay, and looked so sorry that I thought I would behave awhile if I could," (Twain, pg. 20) as Huck says. This is an indirect example, as it clearly states that Huck does not behave.
There are multiple indirect examples. Huck sneaks out of his bedroom late into the night to meet with his gang, and he knows exactly how to get out without getting caught, which clearly shows that he has a tendency to misbehave. The goals of said gang also show the rascal side of Huck and the other boys, as they have violent imaginations and plans to rob and kill people. However, Huck significantly differs from the rest of the gang, as he seems to have a small amount of sense. He is skeptical of the rules of the gang, and nearly does not believe the stories Tom tells, like the genie tale.
There are multiple indirect examples. Huck sneaks out of his bedroom late into the night to meet with his gang, and he knows exactly how to get out without getting caught, which clearly shows that he has a tendency to misbehave. The goals of said gang also show the rascal side of Huck and the other boys, as they have violent imaginations and plans to rob and kill people. However, Huck significantly differs from the rest of the gang, as he seems to have a small amount of sense. He is skeptical of the rules of the gang, and nearly does not believe the stories Tom tells, like the genie tale.
1: Setting
Woods and forests are commonly described as places of mystery and wonder in literature. This is no different in the setting of Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Huck gazes at the woods from his bedroom window late at night and hears noises of various animals and "ghosts" that appear to be whispering to one another. It also appears to be his place for adventure, and indirectly describes his tendency and desire to be a mischievous rascal. It shows his yearning to escape and be a free boy, away from the "pecking" of Miss Watson and the Widow Douglas. His way of being imaginative is also made obvious when he goes there to summon a genie. When Huck is sitting in his room staring at the forest, as mentioned earlier, he is overcome by a feeling of lonesomeness, but the company of the sounds of the woods seem to make him feel less alone.