American Literature 246                  Name:_________________

Writing Assignment #2—20 points

Mark Twain

Due: The beginning of class, Monday, October 2, 2006.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is one of the most banned or challenged books in American history. In fact, it ranks fifth in the list of the most challenged books in the last decade. (Click here to see the complete list.)

So let’s see what you think about the novel after reading the first five chapters. Please follow these steps:

Ø First, read the first five chapters of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, pp. 173-186. In particular, look for language and situations that might be interpreted today by some as offensive.

Ø Next, in a short essay, support or oppose the following position, giving specific reasons for your position:

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn should not be available in junior or senior high school libraries nor should it be used in junior or senior high school classrooms because of its potentially offensive (racist) nature.

Note: Please remember that since this is a ‘W’ course, the quality of your writing will in part determine the points you earn. Please turn in a thoughtful, edited draft.