The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , by Mark Twain, presents the theme of death and rebirth in a philosophical way which was different from many of the early American writers. Through the characters, Huckleberry Finn and Jim (the African American slave), death and rebirth are shown through actions, thoughts, and emotions. .
Huckleberry Finn (Huck), the main character, simulates death in order to break away from the life which he is forced to live. Huck does not agree with many of the social morals and ethics which are present in the southern states specifically those of his father Pap. Pap feels that Huck should not be educated, develop his own opinions, or even have financial security. Huck decides to end the relationship with Pap through a faked death. .
The simulated death of Huck proves to be one of the many turning points used to convey the "death and rebirth" theme. Huck's "death" is the crossover from civilized life to personal freedom. After Huck finds this personal freedom, he begins his life journey with Jim. .
Jim desperately wants to die and experience rebirth in hopes that he may strip himself of the slave life he is forced to live. Huck helps Jim achieve this feat by becoming his adopted child, unbeknownst to either of them. While traveling together, Huck and Jim help each other grow into new people. Huck develops and matures through his "death and rebirth", while Jim achieves social freedom. .
The death and rebirths of Huck and Jim prove that no matter how dismal the situation, a person can always change. Huck learns that many things can be achieved through compassion, ethics, and morals; Jim learns that not all people are out to harm him. .