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Question:
#2) Analyze the representation of children as innocent in Huckleberry Finn.
Mark Twain’s representation of children in his satirical, classical literary novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a perplexing one. The falsely represented theme of children’s innocence which exists in the novel is commonly intertwined with the characterization of the protagonist, Huck, according to some critics. Nevertheless the term, ‘innocent’ itself is perceived differently for many causing individuals to make significant assumptions which lead to distorted thoughts on the characterization of Huck. Thus, this essay question is imposing an already set supposition that Huck is an innocent character without defining ‘innocence’. For the sake of argument, there needs to be clear-cut definitions of the term(s) (innocent, innocence) before any assumptions are made. Both, innocent and innocence are defined as freedom from sin, wrong, or guilt (The Senior Dictionary, 1973). ... Examining the character of Huck, I will argue in this paper that the representation of children as innocent in Mark Twain’s novel is misleading due to the many contradictions that are brought about with the actions of the protagonist; rather Huck’s dishonesty portrays a notion of benevolence, a wanting of only good. By clearly illustrating and analyzing two episodes, bringing forth ideas of William Wordsworth, Rousseau, notions of the ‘Romantic and Evangelical Child’ and providing a counter-argument in regards to the misrepresentations of children as innocent in the book, I will prove my case and bring this paper to a sound closure. ... William Wordsworth believed that children are innocent for they lack knowledge but they are wise (Lecture). Even though Huck carries both qualities (knowledge and wisdom); it would be irrelevant to label him innocent rather than benevolent. ... Psychologically speaking, when one unpretentiously believes and takes in ‘everything’ he or she hears from external forces, then there is an automatic internal assumption made by the individual to think that ‘everything’ he or she says to another person will be unassumingly acknowledged in the same manner, especially in children. ... This, according to our definition of innocence, does not make Huck innocent. ... Therefore, once again going back to our definition, Huck’s actions and character do not fit in with the term ‘innocent’.
Approximate Word count = 1775
Approximate Pages = 7.1
(250 words per page double spaced)
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