Background
Mark Twain, born as Samuel Langhorne Clemens, is an iconic American author known for his novels ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ and ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’. Twain’s experiences from his childhood to his moments of fame were captured in his writings, and they still remain a part of the American cannon.
‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ was first published in 1885, and is widely considered as one of the most important classic novels in American literature. The story follows the young protagonist Huck Finn as he navigates his way through the turbulent social norms and challenges of the southern United States.
Source of Inspiration
It has long been suspected that Twain’s own upbringing in the Mississippi river town of Hannibal, Missouri was perhaps the source of inspiration behind writing of Huckleberry Finn. An article in the academic Journal of American Studies suggested that the novel was a way for Twain “to reinvent himself and his region anew” and a way of exploring “the pains, injustices and triumphs of his own life”.
Twain’s days as a river pilot on the Mississippi river and his experiences during the Civil War all played a part in the development of Huckleberry Finn’s character, particularly his strong moral conscience. The blunt and tough lifestyle of the rural south was also common in Twain’s writing. His use of colourful language, typically derived from Midwest dialects, is seen throughout his works.
The Literary Impact of Huck Finn
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn had a significant influence on the literary works of other prominent writers, notably Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner. Hemingway in particular was greatly inspired by Twain’s characters, including Huck’s journey of self-discovery in a difficult world. The influence of Twain’s work on many modern authors has been widely documented.
Furthermore, the work of Twain was used as a medium to challenge the culture of racism and segregation widely practiced in the 19th Century. The novel openly expressed opposition to racism, particularly directed at slave owners, and it soon attracted controversy due to its frank discussion of slavery. Its effective condemnation of racism was one of the novel’s most important contributions.
Controversy
Huckleberry Finn has been yet again embroiled in controversy following calls by some groups of readers to censor the novel due to its controversial content involving the use of ethnic slurs and other overly-offensive language. These critics feel that the language is not suitable for the 21st century and suggest the novel should be edited to be less offensive.
On the other side of the debate, experts maintain that editing the novel would be tantamount to censorship, and would ultimately make it a far less powerful and compelling work of literature. It would also take away from Twain’s clever use of irony and his disapproving perspective on racism. The deep-rooted emotions of these opposed groups demonstrate the impact of the novel and its power over the public.
Relevance in the 21st Century
Despite the contentious atmosphere surrounding Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the novel has stood the test of time and remains ever relevant in the modern world. The novel speaks to people across the world and its messages echo as they pertain to racism and other related issues in society.
English professor Patricia A. McKee noted how “Huck Finn remains a source of moral and ethical instruction, a source of insight, and a source of continuing delight,”.
The release of the novel coincided with a period of rapid industrialisation and modernisation, which greatly influenced Twain’s writing style and themes. The juxtaposition between the traditional morality associated with Huck and the ultimate changes to the world observed by Twain remains an important part of the novel, and has since been analysed by generations of readers.
Symbolism in Writing and Characters
Twain’s effective use of symbolism and allegory can be found throughout Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. His use of a companion for Huck, Jim, a runaway slave, reflects the dynamic between two different social classes. The novel further dives into ideas of loyalty, family and the human condition.
The characters portrayed in the novel are all extremely real and are indelibly tied to the topics explored. Twain’s use of dialects, satire and other forms of humour allow the reader to empathise with the characters and meanings of the novel.
Twain’s obvious use of satire, especially in regards to the common prejudices held by people at the time, is so powerful that it continues to be appreciated by modern readers. The impact of Huck’s morality on the characters around him is further brought to life by the use of symbolism.
Conclusion of the Novel
The conclusion to Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, where Huck forgoes the traditional path of colonial America by deciding not to involve himself with it, can be seen as a reflection of Twain’s own sense of freedom and exploration. This ending has a powerful message to readers of all ages, regarding the idea of a new America and how it should be shaped.
The novel continues to spark conversations, debates and controversies. Through literature, Twain was able to show the depths and complexities of the human condition, and to challenge stereotypes and common prejudices. This is why, more than 130 years after its publication, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is still being read.
