This is why Twain uses Jim, a black slave, as a symbol of society's racism and ignorance. ... The fact that a white boy apologized to an older, black slave, was ground- breaking and very controversial for this time period. The apology reflects Twain's feelings towards blacks himself. ... Jim is a symbol for the racist ideas and intolerance that plagued our nation for so long. Moreover, he is the symbol for the hope that someday, our country may someday be free of hatred and prejudice. ...

• Word Count: 477
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

Words Hurts What would you do if you where a little boy who was taught about racism when you where a child and you had to pick the right thing to do or the wrong thing? ... Twain was just writing what was said and it would sound strange if he used black man or black person instead of nigger. ... This is a little boy that had to choose slavery or a friend. Huck decides to save black mans life over his own. ... Nigger is a symbol of hatred and in the year 2003 but back in the 1800's that is what you could call an African American. ...

• Word Count: 1050
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

Nevertheless, Huck is still a boy, and is influenced by others, particularly by his imaginative friend, Tom and Jim. ... Because Jim is a black man and a runaway slave, he is at the pity of almost all the other characters in the novel and is often forced into ridiculous and humiliating situations. ... Symbols 1. ...

• Word Count: 1157
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School