The Influence of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn on American Literature

05.14.2023 // By Tome Tailor

When we think about classic American literature, few works are as universally revered as Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Published in 1884 in the United States and 1885 in the United Kingdom, the novel has since become a mainstay in literary classrooms and a beloved work of American fiction. But what is it about this novel that has made it such an enduring and influential part of American literature?

Crafting a Unique Literary Voice

One of the most significant and revolutionary aspects of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is Twain’s use of vernacular language. By choosing to write the story from the perspective of the uneducated, thirteen-year-old Huck Finn, Twain broke from the standard highbrow and formal language that was common in literature at the time. Instead, he employed authentic dialects and regional slang to create a unique voice that was true to the characters and their cultural backgrounds.

This decision not only made the story more accessible and relatable to a broader audience, but it also pushed the boundaries of American literature by legitimizing the use of everyday language in novels. Writers such as William Faulkner and Ernest Hemingway would later adopt Twain’s approach, using their own unique vernacular styles in their work and further shaping the landscape of American literature.

Challenging Social Norms with Satire

Twain also used satire as a powerful tool to criticize society’s ills and provoke critical thought, ultimately having a profound impact on American literature. Through the misadventures of Huck Finn and his companion, the runaway slave Jim, the novel addresses the difficult issues of slavery, racism, and human morality. By presenting the story from the perspective of the naïve but inherently decent Huck, Twain invites readers to question the accepted morals and social norms of the time.

For example, by having Huck subsequently reject the teachings of his society in favor of his own moral compass, Twain challenges the notion that societal norms should dictate ethical behavior. The novel’s satirical critiques of the hypocrisy and moral failures of the society it depicts can be seen as a precursor to the works of future authors such as Harper Lee in [To Kill a Mockingbird](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=to+kill+a+mockingbird+harper+lee&i=stripbooks&tag=tometailor-20) and Joseph Heller in [Catch-22](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=catch-22+joseph+heller&i=stripbooks&tag=tometailor-20)_.

Paving the Way for Modern Literature

Lastly, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn can also be considered as the first Great American Novel – a comprehensive representation of the nation’s culture and history. Twain’s use of vernacular language, sharp wit, and ability to capture the spirit of America established a literary standard for American authors to follow.

Furthermore, the novel’s focus on the coming-of-age journey of its protagonist, as well as the use of a first-person narrative, laid the foundation for the modern American bildungsroman – or coming-of-age story – which can be seen in works like J.D. Salinger’s [The Catcher in the Rye](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+catcher+in+the+rye+j.d.+salinger&i=stripbooks&tag=tometailor-20)and [_S.E. Hinton](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=s.e.+hinton&i=stripbooks&tag=tometailor-20)‘s [The Outsiders](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+outsiders+s.e.+hinton&i=stripbooks&tag=tometailor-20)_.

Conclusion

In summary, Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn has had a significant and lasting influence on American literature. Through its groundbreaking use of vernacular language, satirical criticism of social norms, and portrayal of a young protagonist’s growth amidst adversity, the novel challenged conventions and laid the foundation for many literary techniques and themes that continue to shape modern American fiction.

Don’t miss the chance to read or listen to this timeless classic. Buy The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn on Amazon today!

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