Discuss the use of human as a tool of social criticism in Huckleberry Finn

Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” is a classic American novel that utilizes the character of Huck Finn as a tool for social criticism.

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Twain employs Huck’s narrative perspective and experiences to comment on the social issues of his time, particularly slavery, racism, and the hypocrisy of civilized society. Here are key aspects of how Huck Finn functions as a tool of social criticism:

1. Satire of Civilization:

• Huck’s journey down the Mississippi River becomes a satirical exploration of the so-called “civilized” society he encounters. Through Huck’s eyes, Twain critiques the moral and social values of a society that condones slavery, discrimination, and hypocrisy.

1. Critique of Racism and Slavery:

• Twain uses Huck to expose the prevalent racism and the institution of slavery in the Southern United States. Huck’s evolving relationship with Jim, a runaway slave, challenges the dehumanizing racial stereotypes of the time. Huck’s recognition of Jim’s humanity runs counter to the prevailing racist attitudes of society.

1. Individual Morality vs. Societal Norms:

• Huck grapples with the conflict between his individual sense of morality and the societal norms he encounters. Twain highlights the hypocrisy of a society that claims to uphold moral values while condoning slavery and mistreatment of others. Huck’s internal struggles serve as a critique of a society that values conformity over personal ethics.

1. Critique of Religious Hypocrisy:

• Twain satirizes religious hypocrisy through Huck’s encounters with various characters who profess religious beliefs but engage in morally questionable actions. The “good Christian” society depicted in the novel often contradicts the teachings of compassion and kindness found in Christianity.

1. Innocence and Social Corruption:

• Huck, portrayed as an innocent and naive boy, serves as a contrast to the corrupt and morally bankrupt society he encounters. Twain suggests that societal norms can corrupt individuals and that the so-called civilized world may be more morally compromised than the seemingly untamed wilderness.

1. Irony and Humor:

• Twain employs irony and humor, often through Huck’s narration, to lampoon the irrationality and absurdity of societal customs. The gap between what Huck observes and what society claims to uphold creates a satirical commentary on the contradictions within civilization.

1. Rejection of Social Conventions:

• Huck’s decision to help Jim escape slavery and his rejection of societal expectations regarding race and class highlight the novel’s criticism of rigid social conventions. Huck’s defiance of established norms reflects Twain’s call for individual conscience to supersede societal expectations.

1. Humanizing the “Other”:

• By portraying Jim as a fully developed and sympathetic character, Twain challenges the dehumanization of African Americans in the prevailing racial discourse. Jim’s humanity, as recognized by Huck, undermines the racist attitudes prevalent in the society depicted in the novel.

In conclusion, “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” uses Huck Finn as a lens through which to critically examine the social ills and hypocrisies of 19th-century America. Twain’s satirical approach, combined with Huck’s innocence and moral growth, allows the novel to offer a scathing critique of societal norms, racism, and the contradictions inherent in a supposedly civilized society.