The primary conflict in Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” revolves around the struggle between societal norms and individual morality. This central conflict is predominantly illustrated through the relationship between Huck and Jim, a runaway slave.
Huck Finn, raised in the deeply racist society of the Southern United States, initially grapples with the moral teachings he’s been given, which view helping Jim escape as wrong. On one hand, Huck has been taught that helping Jim is a sin, as society deems him property rather than a person. On the other hand, Huck develops a deep bond with Jim and comes to see him as a friend and a fellow human being deserving of freedom and respect. This inner turmoil leads Huck to question the morals he’s been taught and to ultimately choose his own sense of right and wrong.
This conflict is emblematic of the broader themes of the novel, including racism, friendship, and the struggle for freedom. As Huck and Jim journey down the Mississippi River, Huck’s moral growth challenges the societal values of his time, making it a profound exploration of what it means to be human in the face of injustice.