Theme in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark
Twain D2B1
A theme is a main idea in a work of literature. Theme
should be expressed in a complete sentence. Theme is
an observation about life or human nature, and not
always a moral.
Topic
Slavery/equality
Education
Superstition
Religion
Theme (what does the novel say
about this topic?) and evidence
Slavery is wrong; everyone should be
treated equally. (Huck succeeds in
freeing Jim; Jim is an intelligent and
sympathetic character)
Practical learning can be more useful
than book learning. (Tom has
ridiculous ideas from books; Huck’s
practical learning is useful)
People who are more likely to be
superstitious have less control over
their lives. (Jim & Huck are more
superstitious than Miss Watson)
Superstition can be used to control
behavior. (Tom convinces Nat the
dogs aren’t real)
Organized religion is not for
Freedom
Nature
everyone. (Huck concludes prayer
only works for some people)
Religion doesn’t necessarily make
you a good person. (Grangerfords &
Shepherdsons take guns to church
and then shoot people)
Society’s rules can be oppressive,
racist, unfair/unjust. (Huck & Jim feel
free on the river)
Freedom means being able to govern
oneself according to one’s own
conscience.
It can be hard to go against society.
(Huck wants to turn Jim in but also
wants to free Jim)
Follow your own conscience, not just
what society tells you to do. (Huck’s
internal conflict about Jim)