Analysis

Jim’s ability to predict the storm is an understated but important moment in the novel. As readers are aware, Pap Finn does not fulfill the role of father or parent except when it is convenient to Pap. In contrast, Jim’s protective and caring nature is clear throughout the novel. An example of Jim’s parental role is when he does not allow Huck to view the face of the body on the floating house. The motion is subtle, but the protective action is more apparent later in the last chapter of the novel when readers learn that the dead man is Pap.

With the discovery of the dead man, Huck’s earlier label as the “Angel of Death” comes into play again in Chapters 9 and 10. Despite the fabrications of death and the superstitions surrounding it, Huck does not confront death until he and Jim discover the body inside the house. Huck’s initial reluctance is replaced by a strong curiosity with the man and the events that caused his demise. “I couldn’t keep from studying over it wishing I knowed who shot the man, and what they done it for,” Huck says.

In contrast to Jim’s protective nature, Huck plays the first of three failed pranks directed at Jim. Despite his respect for Jim’s knowledge of superstition, Huck still acts in a careless and impractical manner, and the first prank results in Jim’s snakebite. Huck’s regret at the outcome demonstrates the growth of his character and indicates that Huck does value Jim as a companion and a friend. This value, however, is pitted against Huck’s belief that he should turn Jim in to authorities. The result is a constant clash between Huck’s feelings of admiration and friendship for Jim and his fear of being judged for helping a runaway slave.

Glossary

Barlow knife a jackknife with one blade.

two bits 25 cents.

reticule a small handbag or sewing bag, orginally made of needlework and usually having a drawstring.

curry-comb a metal comb.

peart pert, lively, chipper, or smart.