Child and Childhood in Two Novels

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the books 'Daisy Miller' by Henry James and 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' by Mark Twain. Specifically the paper compares and contrasts the image of the child and childhood in the two novels, including an analysis of the relationship between parents and children. The writer points out that the children in these two novels are anything but model. Further the writer notes that Randolph is a loud brat, while Huck is an uneducated urchin who runs away from home because of a cruel and drunken father. The writer concludes that these two novels portray children in a new light and a different image than the "perfect little angel." Perhaps that is part of what makes them such satisfying reading.

From the Paper:

"Tom Sawyer, however, is much more like Randolph. He comes from a higher level of American society, and is much more sophisticated than Huck. He can also be a bit cruel. He teases Jim with escape plans all the while knowing that Jim's owner, Miss Watson, is dead and Jim is indeed a free man. This shows a spark of cruelty and self-centeredness in Tom that does not exist in the innocent and child-like Huck. Tom makes up his mind based on the opinions of others, while Huck is quick-witted and tends to make up his own mind while he questions those with authority. Thus, Twain seems to be illustrating the difference between layers of American society, and making a tongue-in-cheek reference to his feelings about society and children in general."

Sample of Sources Used:

• James, Henry. Daisy Miller and Other Stories. Ed. Jean Gooder. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1998.
• Twain, Mark. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. New York: P. F. Collier & Son, 1918.

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