Throughout The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, the relationship between Jim and Huck evolves from a simple acquaintanceship to a close and trusting friendship. However, this evolvement is a timely process, most of which takes in the beginning of the book. Through adventures, trust, guidance, advice, and love, the two characters begin to develop a strong and lasting relationship. .
Jim, a paradoxical figure, is at some points the weakest and at others the strongest character in the novel. As an escaped slave, he is vulnerable to every aspect of society, even of Huck, who helps him escape from Miss Watson's house. In some ways, Jim functions as the only true adult in the novel. His childish superstition conceals a true intelligence and an understanding of the natural world, as evidence on Jackson Island. He is the only genuine father figure Huck has, teaching him the ways of the world and sheltering him from danger. Jim is therefore a kind of role model to Huck; he is strong and determined, despite a world that won't allow him to express his true feelings or live a free life. Jim teaches Huck about inner strength, and that people's differences are less important than their respect for each other as individuals. Jim's ability to evolve from just knowing Huck to becoming a very influential figure in Huck's life shows how close the two boys have become despite their many differences. .
One scene, in particular, that depicts this ever growing relationship quite well is when Huck saved Jim by saying he had smallpox. Though this scene is more of a test of their relationship rather than a depiction, it clearly proves Huck's devotion to Jim. It is in this scene that Huck has been brought up to view the abolitionists who helped slaves escape as evil, immoral people. It is also clear in the beginning of this scene that Huck is still prejudiced against Jim. He is truly shocked that Jim would steal his wife and children.
