In this section of the novel, Huck's search for identity continues, taking a turn when meeting two new characters, the Duke and the Dauphin. These two conmen depict the corrupt society and individuals which exist. The exposure of the Duke and the Dauphin’s unjust motives bring out a new side in Huck. At first, when the conmen perform their rip-off plays and other cruel activities, Huck finds these performances to be somewhat humorous. This shows the playful, immature mentality that still exists in Huck. Yet when the con men fake to be the two brothers of the dead man Peter Wilks, Huck develops a strong sensation of emotion and anger. Witnessing such a sweet, gullible family get ripped off, tore Huck apart. The heavy guilt stirring within Huck drives him to steal back the money and return it to the family. This attempt shows Huck’s new, severe development in determining right from wrong. He can also be viewed as a type of heroic or leading figure, considering he is the only one brave enough to do something about the matter. These actions bring Huck one step closer to the revelation of his identity.
Aside from the coming of Huck through the Duke and the Dauphin, you can see an even softer side of Huck through Jim during these chapters. Using the racial lense, during the time setting of this novel, blacks were abused and known for almost only their use as servants and slaves. Huck, being the naive, lost boy that he is, sees Jim as a “nigger” who was Miss.Watson ‘s and the Widow’ slave. Although Jim and Huck already have established an evolving relationship, Huck finally views Jim as human. When Jim’s raw emotion in regards of his family pour out of him Huck claims to see him as a “white man”. Based off of all the disappointing factors in society that Huck has recently witnessed, he sees Jim an even better man than a white male. Throughout these chapters Huck sees the horrific malice and vengefulness of the world and the horrid people it contains. With the sense of moral confusion still existing, it seems that Huck is preparing to go against the grain and rise above the horror.
2 comments:
Hey Bridget! I totally agree with your analysis of Huck's search for identity throughout this chapter! I do believe that due to the unjust acts of the Duke and the Dauphin, Huck starts to grow and develop a more mature mindset. I like how u add the racial lense to depict Huck's softer side. This proves how Jim's and Huck's friendship is growing and strengthening. I also really like your point of how "Huck is preparing to go against the grain and rise above the horror." Thats a great observation of Huckleberry!
I think this is really good! You made some of the same points I made in my post. I also thought Huck grows through his relationship with Jim. Huck seems to open up his mind a bit in these chapters and does not see Jim as a black man but as just as man. I also agree that Huck grows up during the situation with the Duke and Dauphin. Huck recognizes their injustices and tries to do something about it. I agree that Huck shows a lot of anger and emotion which shows he is developing morally.
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