Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Introduction: As discussed in class, Mark Twain’s novel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, has been controversial since its publication date. Beginning in 1885, readers criticized its crudeness, as it depicted what many considered vulgar habits and, worse, traits that many feared children would emulate. Today the controversy has shifted from content and has focused on one word. The use of the “n-word” and the novel’s depiction of a “sambo”-like Jim at times has caused many to disregard its literary merits and demand its immediate banning from school libraries and, in some instances, public ones, too. Others, of course, have argued the opposite, claiming that the language used by Huck Finn and others was merely a “realistic” depiction of speaking patterns, and that Jim is anything but a buffoon; rather, he is one of the most intelligent and moral characters found within the novel.
So, what do you think? Is Adventures of Huckleberry Finn a novel that is racist?
Assignment: In a paper no less than four pages in length, discuss whether the novel is racist. In your paper, you must come to a concrete conclusion, choosing one side or the other of the argument. The novel either is or is not racist. And, by the conclusion of your essay, the reader will know exactly where you stand.
Specifics: You must use a minimum of 10 sources within your paper, not including Twain’s novel. Additionally, only two of those sources can be found through traditional public search engines such as Google or Yahoo. The other sources must be obtained through UDLab Search or other, similar, library resource tools.
Format: You must format your paper using the APA guidelines taught in class. If you are unsure how to format your paper, please see Mr. Foltz or Ms. Shubert after school. At least one of them will be available the week of 4/18, Tuesday through Thursday, from 3:00 until 5:40 after school. Speak to them directly and let them know you are planning to meet with them.
Due date: 4/28/10