How can a book said to be by Ernest Hemingway “Where all American literature stems from” also be dubbed the most crude and pro-racist book of all-time? Holding both titles is The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. It is a centerpiece for American Literature, and a common place for communal debate. The novel has been attacked for various reasons, mostly stemming from an interracial friendship. However, in modern time is only cast away for its low morals and apparent racism.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was written by Mark Twain (Samuel Clemons) and was first published in 1884, and it didn't take long for the book to be talked about. The immediately controversial novel was first banned in 1885 by the Concord Public Library. Many more followed in their steps, however, some believed it should be defended. Quickly to their aid was the San Francisco Chronicle, claiming “Nothing is truer.” However, this was thwarted by many more libraries and schools saying the book's crude language was irrelevant and racist.
Nevertheless, many people feel Mark Twain intended to show the inhumane nature of slavery from a young boy's point of view. Those people also believe Twain is trying to instill the symbolism of personal values, free speech, and basic human rights. The allegations of the constant use of the word “nigger” (212 times total) is combated by a constant theme of friendship, and how it can overcome anything. These people also believe Twain enlightens us on how ignorant we can be, and the stupidity of some of us towards people of another color.
All in all, the fact of the matter remains that there is no consensus. The book will always have its critics, just as any other debate in life. No matter the reasoning there will never be a unanimous outlook on the novel. But one thing is for sure: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn has sparked constant debate for over a century, and will continue to do so for many centuries to come.
