Aunt Polly In Huck Finn

Also, it should be noted that Aunt Polly, guardian and aunt of young Tom, is based on Mark Twain’s own mother, Jane Lampton Clemens. In his autobiography, Twain writes about a childhood incident in which he became fed up by the constant singing of the family’s slave, Sandy. He complained to his mother, who scolded, yet also consoled him. Jane’s simple, warm, and deep words held a profound effect on Mark, as he recalls that “She [Jane] never used large words but she had a natural gift for making small ones do effective work” (7). Furthermore, Twain writes, “She has come handy to me several times in my books, where she figures as Tom Sawyer’s Aunt Polly… I tried to think up other improvements for her but did not find any” (7). Twain shows his

Similar to the description of Jane Clements, Aunt Polly is a character who cares greatly for her beloved nephew, yet must reprimand him for his mischievous actions. Her priority as Tom’s caretaker is for Tom to be happy, and she expresses this through her patience in showing constant support; she is truly a lovable character. For instance, during a scene in which Tom is feigning injuries and illnesses to try and skip school, Aunt Polly says, “Tom, Tom, I love you so, and you seem to try every way you can to break my old heart with your outrageousness” (45). While the reader is sure to sympathize with Aunt Polly and frown upon Tom’s childish antics, her continued display of affection is heartwarming. Jane Clemens must feel honored to be the foundation of such a likable, poised

Not only did he write compelling, professional works, but he also possessed a strong desire to please his readers. As stated in his preface, Twain writes, “Although my book is intended mainly for the entertainment of boys and girls… part of my plan has been to try pleasantly to remind adults of what they once were themselves, and of how they felt and thought and talked.” It is apparent that Twain wanted to appeal to a mass audience. By incorporating likeable young characters such as the naughty yet responsible Tom Sawyer and the adventurous Huck Finn, Twain made a connection with the children of that generation. While the story takes place in the 1800s, the themes of coming-of-age, finding a niche in society, and survival are timeless and thus relate to children of today. Furthermore, Twain’s writing style provokes a feeling of nostalgia in adults, who see their own children, reflect upon their childhood, and reminisce about their days roaming through town like