The Censorship of Huckleberry Finn Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a significant book in the history of American literature that presents readers with the truth of our past American society in aspects such as speech, mannerisms, and tradition that we must embrace rather than dismiss by censorship. It is a novel that has been praised and proclaimed America’s “first indigenous literary masterpiece” (Walter Dean Howells) as well as one that has been criticized and declared obscene. It has undergone much scorn and condemnation as a novel and many feel that it should be censored. This, however, is not the way it should be. Huckleberry Finn is a masterpiece and, as a matter of fact, it is one on many levels. The story itself, though …show more content…

This symbolism used by Twain offers yet another factor to contribute to Huckleberry Finn’s status as a masterpiece (Twain). This novel also brings forth several valuable outlooks and lessons on life, one of which being the value of a friend. The relationship that grows between the characters of Huck and Jim is one that seems to constantly be tested and put under strain. Both of them were forced, at one time or another, to make decisions that affected the other. They had to consider the outcome of their actions and how they would affect one another. An example of this was when Huck had to choose whether or not to tell Miss Watson about Jim being held by the Phelps. In the end, he chose not to tell on Jim even if it meant Huck “going to hell.” He chose to do what he thought best for Jim and save him himself. All of these challenges that Huck and Jim faced only made their relationship strengthen and had the both of them realizing the value of a friend right along with the reader (Twain, 161-162). It would do no good to censor Huckleberry Finn from schools or any other place for that matter simply because it contains controversial topics such as slavery and the use of certain words or dialects. In fact, school is the most appropriate place for these sensitive subjects to be discussed and brought forth among students. It is here that meaningful discussions can take place. If students were to openly inquire of and confer on these subjects, then they could