Examples Of Satire In Huckleberry Finn

Single narrative and satire, as used in the novel Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, are utilized by Mark Twain for the sole purpose of emphasizing the false perceptions and dehumanizing traits that U.S. history’s oppressors obtained within the time frame of American slavery. The novel's satire revolves around the despotism against African Americans that has plagued the United States for 89 years, regarding the topic of race and slurs as a norm for conversation and debate. The topic of racism is illustrated through the White American perspective, ridiculing the hypocritical and toxic mindset that has been ingrained in the minds of youth for generations. Examples of his satire are strategically employed through Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,

Both pieces of literature emphasize the effect of generational influence regarding racist mindsets, the degrading of diverse cultures and ethnicities, and the lack of empathy and aid to shield innocent strangers from abuse and mental harm. Twain addresses these issues strictly through Huck’s actions and internal dialogue toward himself and Jim. For instance, much like the boy from Twain’s article, Huck is influenced by society's norms and influence. He states, “Just see what a difference made in him the minute he judged he was about free. [...] Here was this nigger, which I had as good as helped to run away, coming right out flat-footed and saying he would steal his children- children that belonged to a man I didn’t even know; a man that hadn’t ever done me no harm”(Twain, 115). Huck’s inner dialogue signifies that he has been taught that it is normal for men to own another man, his wife, and his children; that it is immoral for a black man to speak of being free and having his family back. Despite Huck’s influenced dehumanization toward Jim, he decidedly doesn’t betray his trust and helps him to freedom, portraying the message that norms can be nullified by individuals to make a

Fishkin provides an analysis of the novel that further proves Twain’s efficiency of his satirical inclusion in AoHF. She starts her analysis off with the recognition that the novel is a hard book to read, providing insight on the difficulties revolving around teaching the novel and its message. However, she also states that despite being a complex read, she believes that it is important to not shy away from this topic when teaching it to adolescents, considering Twain’s purpose was to speak on these trivial issues of that time period. She claims that, “We continue to live, as a nation, in the shadow of racism while being simultaneously committed, on paper, to the principles of equality. [...] it is this irony at the core of the American experience that Mark Twain forces us to confront head-on” (Fiskin,8). Twain’s exposing of the racism surrounding American is even more apparent and relatable presently, highlighting his message for readers who are able to see past Huck’s usage of slurs and discern the satire hidden underneath. In the 21st century, racism is exposed to anyone who has the availability of social media, creating an indifference to the blatant racism in the novel. This generation's exposure to racism allows for the novel’s satire to be more prominent and understood, whilst also creating more debate for the topic itself. Fishkin states, “It is a book that puts on the table the very questions the culture so often tries to bury, a book that opens out into