In his masterpiece, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain uses satire to expose the racism, injustices and lack of morality in society. Huck and Jim's journey down the Mississippi River allows the reader to examine the attitudes, actions and beliefs of a southern community during the mid to late nineteenth century. Both Huck and Jim escape from social injustice and are both distrustful of the civilization around them. As the two struggle to maintain their freedom, Huck constantly challenges his morals with the way he was brought up, as a racist southern boy, and his own personal beliefs. Huck's dilemma is based on the racist attitudes of that consume his society and disrupt and nearly destroy the life of Jim. Twain presents vivid interpretations of racism and morality through the eyes of fictional characters. These issues have continually been intertwined throughout history and have resulted in strong political and humanitarian efforts based on internal morals, rather than those of society. Twain's underlying message for humanity is to be brave enough to break from what others assume is correct and just, and make decisions for yourselves and the ability to stand on your own and do something about it. .
Twain depicts slavery and racism through the eyes of Jim, Huck and the Southern society as a whole. Jim allows the readers to see the human side of slaves and acknowledge the love, friendship, and goodness that they are capable of when given the chance. Huck's development throughout the story portrays various degrees of racism, including his decision to promote the freedom of slaves in the end of the novel. The Southern society of this time has left no place in their hearts for African American slaves. They are simply considered property and their life is as valuable as the money the slave owner bought them for. Twain presents but does not advocate the attitudes and actions of the society.
