Huckleberry Finn Transcendentalism Analysis

“Not all who wander are lost” (J. R. R. Tolkien).This quote by J. R. R. Tolkien claims that those who “wander,” choose to live a life of wholeness and in dependability. This concept is clearly displayed In Mark Twain’s novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, where Huck Finn proves he is a transcendentalist through refusing to conform to society’s expectations, exhibiting self reliance, and showing a deep appreciation for nature. Henry David Thoreau, a father of transcendentalism, once decided that instead trying to fit in with society, he was going to pursue a life of self-reliance alone in the woods. He claims,“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not
Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “What I must do is all that concerns me, not what people think” (Emerson). Emerson had chosen to not follow the majority’s actions, which is the exact mindset Huck reveals throughout the story. These acts of nonconformity are first seen when Huck breaks away from life with his bullheaded caregiver. Huck claims, “The Widow Douglas, she took me for her son, and allowed she would sivilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time...so when I couldn’t stand it no longer, I lit out” (Twain 3). Although Huck was treated well by Widow Douglas, he soon realizes the lifestyle she is instructing is not one that Huck prefers. Adding to that, Huck strays from society’s expectations when he chooses to befriend, and travel with, an African American slave named Jim. This was unheard of at the time because slaves were not even viewed as people. Nonetheless, Huck decides to make Jim his companion and sees Jim for who he truly is. In addition, at the end of the book, Huck makes an obvious point that the life of conformity is not one he desires. He exclaims, “I reckon I got to light out for the Territory ahead of the rest, because Aunt Sally she’s going to adopt me and sivilize me and I can’t stand it. I been there before” (Twain 338). Thus proving, once again, that Huck is denying the standard path that society takes, and chooses to follow his own path
(Thoreau)” This quote by Henry David Thoreau was one that fit the mindset Huck had as he adventures down the Mississippi, increasing his appreciation for nature. In the beginning of his journey, Huck joyfully states, “The sun was up so high when I waked, that I judged it was after eight o’clock. I laid there in the grass and the cool shade, thinking about things and feeling rested and ruther comfortable and satisfied” (Twain 44). Huck has a strong appreciation for nature and all it has to offer and finds great peace in the outdoors. Furthermore, Huck has encounters with society on his adventure down the Mississippi where he has to opportunity to become civilized, yet insists on living in nature. He explains, “Other places do seem so cramped up and smothery, but a raft don't, you feel might free and easy and comfortable on a raft” (Twain 137). Huck thinks he experiences the perfect family and living situation, but soon realizes that simply existing in nature is his version of perfect. It is also important to add that Huck is a transcendentalist through his appreciation for the Mississippi River. It is on the Mississippi River where Huck announces,”...it did seem so good to be free again and all by ourselves on the big river, and nobody to bother us.” (Twain 29). Huck and Jim are able to use the Mississippi as an escape route which equates to much appreciated freedom