In Peaches Henry's critical essay involving the controversy on race, she came to the conclusion that although "...racial perspective present in Huckleberry Finn may never be satisfactorily explained for censors or scholars, the consideration of them may have a practical, positive bearing on the manner in which America approaches race in the coming century." In other words, she believes we are now in a time that allows us to look back on the hardships racism brought, but learn from those mistakes rather than let them influence our actions for the worst. It cannot be denied that racism is present in this novel, but that does not necessarily make it a racist text. Therefore, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn should not be banned from the education system for the simple fact that these racial issues are present.
Henry has made an important point. Even though Mark Twain's arguable novel may not be the best book to teach to a class, if it is to be read, I think there are more positive aspects to the novel than there are negative. Reading about a time period much different than the one today educates students on the mid-19th century. Although it may be hard to read about the harsh treatments slavery brought, it brings to view how societies functioned and brings an insight to how life was for young white boys like Huckleberry Finn and mistreated slaves like Jim. These two characters, working together to gain their own personal freedom is one way a student can see how different these times were, and know that these circumstances were all too real, especially for Jim. In addition to the historical realism, racial terms are also a big influence during this time. Even though the words used to refer to Blacks is wrong and degrading, it is considered normal slang back then. Twain’s choice of using these terms should not cause people to see him as racist, but should acknowledge this really is the way in which these people spoke.
Graff and Phelan bring up one argument set against Twain’s historical realism in the controversial essay. They believe “in having Miss Watson free Jim in her will, Twain sins against the laws of realism-real Southern slaveholders were not characteristically prone to such changes of heart.” It seems as if Graff and Phelan are looking for any small circumstance to disprove Twain’s realism. It may have been unlikely for someone to free their slave, but having one person choose to do so does not make this novel inaccurate. (add)
The book is racist, but in some ways it educates students about the period in time when African Americans were degraded and mistreated. However, reading about such conflicting times opens students' perspectives to teach them that these conducts were wrong and such mistreatments should never occur again. This ultimately brings them to focus on the discussions on racism that will enlighten them, and direct them to stray from racist actions and beliefs.(add)
Add paragraph of the benefits that would benefit if taught
Add paragraph of my opinion on the whole issue of race
Concluding paragraph