The Struggle to Find Oneself
In the novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, by Mark Twain, the main character
enters a transitional period of his life. This character, Huck Finn, faces many situations forcing
him to deal with decisions that carry with them the ability to bring about change. Since
transition can be defined as "the process of entering change", Huck begins searching for an
identity which is truly his own. In determining his self image, Huck deals with conformity and
freedom, trying on different identities that do not belong to him, and shaping these new found
tributes into an identity which best suits his conscience.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn begins with Huck under the care of Widow Douglas
as "she took me for her son, and allowed that she would civilize me; but it was rough living in
the house all the time."(p.1) Huck has become so used to being free that he sees the Widow
Douglas' protection solely in terms of confinement. Huck finds this unacceptable because he
loses his freedom amongst "the bars and shackles of civilization."(p.2) Huck feels that he
belongs out under the stars where the community cannot bound him. Huck then faces the return
of his drunkard father.
When Huck's father comes back to the town, he only intends to steal money from his
son.; "I hain't heard nothing but about you being rich. That's why I come. You get me that money
tomorrow-I want it."(p.15) Huck's own father does not feel one bit inclined to treat his son with
any respect. Then his father brings him to a log cabin deep in the woods and Huck once again
faces confinement. Huck's escape, flight, and the changing of his identity are his only release
from being in the log cabin. Then after escaping from it all, Huck is left with himself and his
freedom.
The raft on which Huck and Jim travel demonstrates one of symbols of freedom in the ...