Freedom in Huckleberry Finn
The theme of Freedom in Huckleberry Finn.
Many themes can be identified throughout this story, but what was very evident in the story was the theme of freedom.
This theme is very clear early on in the book, beginning in Chapter 1. In this chapter we see Huck already struggling with the widow Douglas as she attempts to ‘civilize’ him. Huck complains about the cramped feeling he gets when the widow puts him in new clothes, he complains about the structure of school, and he especially is unhappy with the rituals before dinner. He wonders, “When you got to the table you couldn’t go right to eating…” Although Huck has adjusted to this structured lifestyle, it is clear that he wants adventure.
Another aspect of the story that is suppressing Huck is his Pap. The character of Pap is vividly displayed, and so is Huck’s fear of him. Unfortunately for Huck, a judge hands him over to Pap, and not Huck has lost total freedom. He is locked in both day and night. Even though Huck does express that he is somewhat comfortable with the unstructured ness of living with Pap, as opposed to the widow, he is not happy.
After planning a crafty escape, Huck flees from Pap’s cabin and is free.
The character of Jim also exemplifies freedom. To Jim, freedom is more than important. When Jim and Huck meet up in chapter 8, Jim was trying to free himself. He was trying to free himself from Miss Watson who was threatening to sell him south, and he was escaping the suspicion that he was Huck’s murderer.
The theme of freedom can also be looked at from a social point of view. Society at this time was at a struggle for freedom. War and slavery were upon the biggest issues of this time. The concept of Freedom vs. Confinement is evident in both Huck’s life and Huck’s society.
Can you think of any other aspects of the book that relates to the concept of freedom an/or confinement?
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sorry Jessica...I meant to tell you Great presentation...I take yours back AManda...;)
Great presentation Amanda! I saw a lot of the same themes that you saw also. I was also wondering if Huck was searching for freedom or simply happiness. Now he may have been searching for happiness, but I think that with his happiness came his freedom. The same goes for Jim and the rest of the crew. It seems that today we take our freedom for granted. I could not imagine what it would be like as a human being, to be the property of another. It is important to remember how greatful we should be that we are FREE!!!
I really enjoyed your presentation today. The topic of freedom litters the book. Have you thought about maybe connecting that theme to the historical events of the period for your paper?
I have been searching online and posted some review sites on my blog if you need some starting references. It's a great topic. I hope someone writes about it. :-)