Analysis

Twain’s decision to name the boat the Walter Scott continues his mockery of romantic novels and their authors. The wreck’s importance to the novel, however, is found in the contrasting images of peace and brutality and Huck’s inevitable deliberations on death.

Chapter 12 signals a separation from Huck and Jim’s familiar surroundings as the two begin their journey down the Mississippi. The peaceful images of the river are similar to those that readers have seen in the many film adaptations of Huck Finn: Huck and Jim on a large and comfortable raft, free from outside interference and enjoying the serenity of their new life. Although the river is seen as a safe haven for Huck and Jim, the viciousness of the shore arrives in the form of the Walter Scott wreck. In this manner, Twain is able to interrupt the peaceful environment of the river by combining it with the brutality of men. The pattern is one that will recur when the duke and the king board the raft in Chapter 19.

Despite their savageness and unfeeling attitude, Huck cannot help but “worry about the men” as he leaves them to die. Huck’s compassion is evident, and he does attempt to save the men by alerting the ferryboat watchman. The “Angel of Death,” however, claims more victims as the Walter Scott breaks apart and sinks.

Glossary

tow-head sandbar with thick reeds.

harrow-teeth wood or metal spikes used to plow land.

mushmelon a cantaloupe or other moderate sized melon.

jackstaff an iron rod or wooden bar on a ship to which the sails are fastened.

Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) Scottish poet and novelist, author of Ivanhoe.