INTRO
Satire is applied to many aspects of the novel, and racism is no exception. The message is developed using racist characters and derogatory language. Yet this does not label the novel as racist. Every racist character is ridiculed, showing their lack of legitimacy. For example, the Duke and King are not only made fun of but tarred and feathered after selling Jim. Prior to this, they are thieves and burdens to Huckleberry Finn. Mark Twain emphasizes racist characters’ flaws. A racist novel would portray these characters with little regard for their actions.
Every White character, racist or not, is still flawed. The Judge, although well-meaning, owns slaves. He also gives Pap custody of Huck, negatively affecting him and causing him to
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Still, society is ridiculed and identified as the main conflict. Huck decides against racism by distancing himself from society’s chaos. On the raft, he is free from the expectations, ethics, and judgments of society. Each time Huck leaves the raft, a bizarre event takes place. This shows the disorganization of society. (insert example). Each time society finds its way to the raft, similar scenarios occur. When the Duke and King board the raft, they wreak havoc almost immediately. (insert example). Huck is thinking of ways to get rid of them posthaste, as they disrupt him and Jim’s isolated microcosm. Twain then poses the question: How can a dysfunctional society make adequate decisions, especially regarding other people’s inherent status? It is made clear that this society is incompetent and – like the characters– cannot be trusted. (say something about mob mentality). There is a dichotomy between the peacefulness of Huck and Jim’s way of life and that of society. Ironically, Huck doubts his diversion of society's accepted …show more content…
Jim's benevolence exemplifies the novel's anti-racist message. Despite leaving his family, he still loves them dearly. Jim deeply regrets punishing his daughter: (insert quote). Not only does he love his family, but cares for the people around him as well. He continues to travel South with Huck after missing Cairo. He is well aware of the dangers awaiting him in the deep south, yet sacrifices his plan of freedom to protect Huck. Jim also saves Tom Sawyer’s life, even after enduring unnecessary hardship in his name. Jim has more humanity than any other character. Twain gives Jim compassion, while a racist author will portray him in a negative light due to his race. After spending time with Jim, Huck begins to doubt the standards that cause Jim to be considered