Huck's Mind: A Psychological Analysis

This article explores the depths of Huck 's unconscious acting on the influence of his super ego. Levy examines the realms of the river signifying freedom and the banks symbolizing societal conformity and bondage, which Huck is reluctant to submit to. Also, this criticism fixes Pap as a symbol of natures depravity being conformed by community itself, which is the reason for a major part of Huck 's scorn. Without the influential parental figure Huck resorts to establishing a relationship with Jim to compensate for his fathers incapabilities. Huck 's relationship with Jim is, in this criticism, a result of his father having a lack of influence in his life, and Jim in a way replaces that kinship. Their relationship is shaped also by their lack

From a critical approach this article is considered an example of a psychoanalytic criticism. There are many concepts throughout the article that prove this specific criticism. For instance, one of the main focuses is Huck 's conscience and how he strives to elude the conformities of society. He represses contempt that he holds for his father 's negative attitude, which contributed greatly to Huck 's low self-esteem. The Oedipal Complex created by Freud comes into play at this point in time. Huck was without a maternal figures other than the strict guidance of Miss Watson and the Widow Douglas who were not modeled as mothers, but teachers. Having this lack he is gendered without the influence of a mother which creates the possibility that his repression of feelings will force him into becoming a homosexual. This is also a question in this criticism. Huck and Jim 's relationship is quite powerful. Although there is not implicit evidence that these two engaged in physical activity the strength of their bond is

The Oedipal Complex is responsible for the development of the superego, which is comprised, of morality, conscience, law and authority. Huck throughout this novel tends to follow his superego. The superego influences gender roles, relationships, and the transition from pleasure to reality principles, from family to society, and from nature to culture. All of these aspects come into play throughout this criticism. For instance, the superego reflects moral judgements and the sacrifice for good even if not logical. Huck 's escape to the river is not a logical option.
Although he has a rough relationship with his father, Miss Watson and the Widow Douglas are trying to manipulate Huck into becoming an educated individual that conforms to society. Huck foresees a different future for himself. Instead of giving in to the pressures to conform to society he runs in the opposite direction, which signifies a sacrifice for good rather than a logical discussion. Psychoanalytic criticism centers on repressed emotions and what the superego decides not to do that are pushed into the unconscious. Huck fails to realize that he is running from society by fleeing down the river because it is an unconscious drive. Freud also mentions that these repressed feelings emerge in disguised form, which I equated to language. Huck 's language is associated with that of Jim 's. This criticism provides evidence that this language commonality is driven by his repressed emotions. In addition, Huck 's