Who Is A Father Figure In Huckleberry Finn

The choice of a father figure is rarely one that an individual is able to determine for themselves. Yet, in the book Adventures of Huckleberry Finn we watch the main characters transition from one father figure to another. Huck's life is presented as a choice between an abusive father and one that is genuinely interested in his well being. Paps character permeates with all of the horrible realities of his failures as father. He takes take out all of his problems on anyone that happens to be standing in the vicinity. Even as he is bettering himself, Huck is constantly berated for pursuing an education that Pap doesn't have. Furthermore, Pap has an immense amount of avarice towards Huck's fortune. To his father, Huck is nothing more than a piece
of his property. He is a slave that exists for the sole benefit of his biological father. As events unfold however, we are presented with another father figure that stands as the polar opposite to Pap. Jim is a gentle slave that is on the run in the hopes of finding his own family. Jim and Huck share the common trait that they are both considered someone's property. As Jim's character is revealed, Huck comes to admire Jim as more than a slave. As the story progresses in the book Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, we see the notions of an idealized father figure in contrast with a deranged father figure. The differences between Jim and Pap are stark, and we ultimately see these dramatic differences help to shape the adventures that Huck embarks upon.