how does mark twain show racism and slavery in huckleberry fin?
thanks!
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/huckfinn/themes.html
In Mark Twain's novel "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," he addresses the themes of racism and slavery by portraying their existence through various characters and incidents. Here's how you can explore these themes in the book:
1. Read the text: Start by reading the novel itself. Pay attention to the interactions and attitudes of the characters towards individuals of different races. Note any instances where racism or slavery is mentioned or indirectly portrayed.
2. Analyze characterizations: Look closely at how Twain portrays the different characters. Observe the racist beliefs held by some characters, such as the Widow Douglas and Miss Watson, who embody the attitudes of mainstream society at the time. Highlight instances where these characters express racist views or treat African-American characters differently.
3. Examine racial slurs and dialects: Twain uses specific language choices and dialects for certain characters, including African-American characters like Jim. Analyze the stereotypes and racial slurs used, paying attention to how these elements contribute to the overall depiction of racism within the narrative.
4. Explore Huck's internal conflict: Observe the development of Huck Finn's character throughout the story. While he initially holds some racist beliefs, his friendship with Jim, an escaped slave, challenges these prejudices. Analyze Huck's internal struggle as he grapples with societal expectations and his own growing empathy towards Jim.
5. Identify satirical elements: Twain employs satire to criticize and highlight the absurdity of racism and slavery. Notice instances where he uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to expose the contradictions and ignorance surrounding these issues.
6. Examine social commentary: Twain uses Huckleberry Finn as a means to provide social commentary on the injustice of racism and the dehumanizing institution of slavery. Look for passages or incidents that shed light on the harsh realities faced by African-Americans during that time period.
By following these steps, you'll be able to analyze how Mark Twain portrays racism and slavery in "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and gain a deeper understanding of the novel's themes.