The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Essay Example for Free

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Essay Though the novel is entitled The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and the story is told by Huck, the key character in the novel is Jim The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn has two key characters, one is the slave Jim, the other; the protagonist Huck. Jim and Huck could each be considered the key characters for different reasons, Jim as he is the main representative of the typical slave (slavery being the most important theme of this novel) and Huck for he is the main storyteller. Jim is an important character in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and without him the novel would be ineffectual. However The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a novel about the adventures of the protagonist Huck, and it is more likely that the key character of this novel is Huck because we see everything from his view. In a novel which is written as a satiric social comment upon the southern states of America Jims role as the manifestation of slavery must be a key one. Incidents in which Jim interacts with other characters and their reactions to him are meant to symbolise the wider societys opinions on slaves and the practice of slavery. Jim, is a heroic figure in a book whose main characters consist of liars, cheats and scoundrels. Jim always does the right thing if he can, he always feels empathy for others even if those people show no such emotions for him. The incident at the end of the novel when he saves Tom and risks what he believes to be his own freedom is a case in point. We empathise with Jim because even though other characters suggest that his feelings are least important, whose life is lesser, whose existence is trivial, he manages to stay cheerful, and even kind to those who treat him in this manner. This quality makes him even more heroic, for he is a figure who turns the other cheek, and is kind to others no matter what. Jim doesnt lie or cheat, or steal or gamble and looks down on these activities. Jim is never bitter, he never complains, and never expects Huck to return or even notice what he does for him. However this is no to say that Huck is not heroic himself, his support for Jim, a black man, who Huck has been taught is inferior and as important as a pack horse is astounding, and displays that Huck is strong enough and heroic enough to make the harder choice and choose his heart over his conscience. An example of Huck choosing his heart occurs just after Jim has been sold by the King and the Duke for forty dollars, Huck believes he has been forced to make a choice between Jim and heaven. He chooses Jim with the words All right then, Ill go to hell. It is Jims escape and the subsequent threat of his re-capture that provides the reason for himself and Huck to leave the island and travel down the river where most of their adventures occur. Without Jim Twain would lack a reason for Huck to travel down the river and experience what he experiences, without Jim this would be little more than a story about a boy who fakes his own death, and then lives on an island. Add to this the fact that Jim is the leader during the travel down the river. He is the one who knows all the signs of weather, either good or bad, it is he who makes their journey its success and ensures their lives. Jim is the maturest out of himself and Huck. Hucks immaturity is shown when he puts the rattlesnake in Jims sleeping bag, or when he plays a trick on Jim during the fog. Jims maturity is displayed by his reaction to the incident when Huck plays a trick on him during the fog. Without Jim the novel would be innefectual because Hucks development would be stunted without him. One prime example of Jims importance occurs when Huck comes closer to fully realising that Jim is a real person too and the colour of his skin does not diminish his humanity. Huck has realised that Jim is a human and that he should not play tricks on him or regard him as stupid, around the end of the novel Huck says I knowed he was white inside, Huck is expresing his realisation that Jim is a human in the only way he knows through making Jim white. Hucks realisation is well brought across to us just after he has hidden in the fog, and returned to Jim, Jim works out that Huck is trying to trick him and reacts very badly to Hucks prank. Huck then says. it was fifteen minutes before I could work myself to humble to a nigger- but I done it, and I warnt ever sorry for it afterwards, neither. I didnt do him no more mean tricks, and I wouldnt done that one if Id knowed it would make him feel that way. Huck and Jim have a symbiotic relationship, they need each other Huck needs Jim to remain dynamic and keep our attention, and Jim needs Huck to justify his presence in the novel. Jims effect on Huck is huge it is through Jim that Huck begins to learn about how the colour of skin does not alter the person inside. An example of this occurs when Huck says and I do believe he cared just as much for his people as white folks does for theirn . Huck justifies Jims existence as a character of substance in this novel, for through helping Huck and caring for him, Jim is makes an impact on the reader, and hence makes his position in the novel as one of its main characters more tenable. However while it is obviously true that Jim teaches Huck he is not Hucks only teacher, several other characters such as Pap and Tom also teach Huck valuable lessons. One example of Huck being taught by someone other than Jim occurs when Huck says If I never learnt nothin else out of pap, I learnt that the best way to get along with his kind of people is to let them have their own way. It is through Huck and his reactions to various events that Twain passes on his opinions to the reader. Huck is a character through which the author, in Twain puts across his point of view, for example Hucks realisation that Jim is also a human and also important. Twain is trying to get this message across to the public. Huck is a representation of the common person at the beginning of the novel. He is white, uneducated, simple, and not willing to think about what he is told just willing to accept it. Hucks realisations about right and wrong, and importantly his own ability to determine this for himself are drawn out and argued logically inside a story which will hold the readers attention. Through Huck Twain frames all the key issues of freedom, racism and slavery, personal integrity and social rebellion against social attitudes of the period. This occurs when Huck interacts with key characters who are representative of a theme or an idea being presented by Twain. For example his interaction with Tom who represents conventional social attitudes, as the novel progresses Huck is less inclined to accept what Tom says or does as correct. One example of this occurs when Huck quits Tom Sawyers band of thieves, he no longer agrees with Tom, and many of Toms imagined incidents such as that of rading the summer school picnic no longer hold any credence with Huck. This moving away from Tom and what he represents, is an indication of Twains rejection of conventional social values. Jim is the symbolic representation of only one of these points of discussion, slavery. Jim is only a part of that whole because he represents only one of the themes that Twain is discussing in this novel. Unlike Huck, Jim is not the one who reveals the authors opinions through his actions and reactions he is merely representative of one of these ideas. Without Hucks presence the novel lacks a unifying element. Jim is unable to fill the void in this regard as he is a relatively static character who does not change. This is unlike the dynamic Huck who changes some of his opinions and learns about many things ranging from serious issues such as slavery to simpler things such as to how to discern what the weather will be. The most important factor that leads me to argue that Huck is the protagonist comes from the fact that the whole novel is told in first person. It is Hucks views not Jims that we get, it is his outlook that colours our opinion, and most importantly his vernacular we read. In fact Jim himself is seen through Hucks eyes, with Hucks opinion colouring our own. Huck is omnipresent, this is not so with Jim he continuously disappears when it does not serve Twain to have him in the episode. Debates inside Hucks mind, the incident when Huck plays a trick on Jim during the fog, and even the whole Shepardson, Grangerford incident are lacking the presence of Jim. When Huck meets the Shepardsons and the Grangerfords, for example Jim magically disappears into the bushes to repair the raft. Huck is in every moment of the novel, and other characters are merely there because they interact with Huck, Jim is no exception. Jim is an extremely important character in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Jim represents slavery the major theme of the novel, is forgiving, and kind, however this makes him a heroic character, not the key character. Huck on the other hand is the key character by virtue of his predominance throughout the book, he is on every page, and every line and unlike Jim he is the character who reveals and in effect discusses issues through his reactions, action and interaction with other characters. Hence it is fair and logical to conclude that although important Jim is not the key character of the novel, that honour must go to Huck.

Beyond Suffrage: A Book Review Essay examples -- essays research pape

The book, Beyond Suffrage; Women in the New Deal, presents the role of women in the 1930’s in a much different light than many people think of it. The goal of this book is to enlighten the reader as to what role women played in politics during the New Deal. Because of it’s broad view I have taken several specific examples from the book and elaborated on them in order to give you a better understanding.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The author, Susan Ware, begins by laying the groundwork for the women’s network. During the 1930’s, many different organizations began to evolve to include women in their decision-making. The backbone to this movement seems to lie deep within the White House. The First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, held a great deal of influence in decisions regarding women and their role. Ware writes of Mrs. Roosevelt as the â€Å"foremost member of the women’s network in the 1930’s,† and throughout the book Roosevelt’s influence seems to be everywhere.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Moving on, the twenty-eight women discussed in this book are all linked through a complex network, which made them very strong in a time where women had no real strength. Almost all of them held top federal jobs in Washington DC. They were all educated women, born in the same generation. A sisterhood, supporting each other and encouraging each other after every victory, no matter how small, linked them very closely. These women gave each other the moral support and mentorship that seems abse...

Provide Support for Mobility

Provide support for mobility (HSC 2002) Outcome 1 Understand the importance of mobility 1. define mobility Mobility is defined as, * being able to move or be moved freely and easily * the ability to move physically * The ability to move a part of the body 2. explain how different health conditions may affect and be affected by mobility No matter an individuals age, level of disability or infirmity it is important that everyone maintains some level of exercise. There are a vast range of disabilities and conditions which can result in mobility difficulties.Some of the most common on-going or permanent conditions result from muscular and skeletal disabilities and from on-going medical conditions which affect mobility. Some examples of disabilities and conditions which can have an impact on mobility are: Back and neck problems, accidents or injury leading to long term disability, arthritis and any other condition affecting the joints, dementia, amputation, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosi s, partial or total paralysis, cerebral palsy and head injury.Other conditions such as respiratory and cardiac diseases, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer and AIDS can all have an impact on co-ordination, dexterity, strength, speed and stamina. There are a vast range of health conditions which can be improved by mobility, here are a few. After an individual has suffered a stroke areas of their body will be weak and it is important that a physiotherapist devises a programme of exercise to strengthen the weak areas in order to regain the mobility.After joint surgery such as hip replacement exercise is key to making a full recovery and mobility of the joint. For individuals who are asthmatic or with chest problems, exercise can expand airways to make breathing easier. 3. outline the effects that reduced mobility may have on an individual’s well-being Both mobility and physical difficulties, and regular or constant pain can impact on an individual’s overall sense of wellbeing. So me people may be affected at times by low-self esteem and self confidence, and motivational difficulties.Keeping mobile is extremely important for health and for giving an individual increased self esteem and a sense of well being. It is vital as we get older to maintain our mobility, to help us remain active as an elderly person and avoid having to sit in a chair all day. Being mobile enables individuals to remain independent. Being able to go when and where they want when they want without having to rely on others for assistance can make a major difference to individuals lives. 4. describe the benefits of maintaining and improving mobility.It is important to maintain and improve mobility and this can be done through exercise. The benefits of exercise for any individual regardless of the level of their disability are both physical and an emotional improvement in their condition. Physically exercise increases heart and lung activity which improves and strengthens the cardiovascular system, which controls breathing and blood circulation. Physical exercise also increases the use of muscles which improves the muscles strength and tone. It also improves sleep and burns calories to keep our weight balanced.Frequent and regular physical exercise boosts the immune system, and helps prevent the â€Å"diseases of affluence† such as heart disease, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and obesity. It also improves mental health, helps prevent depression and helps to promote or maintain positive self esteem. By maintaining and improving an individual’s mobility it will increase their independence and freedom to choose actions and destinations. Outcome 2 Be able to prepare for mobility activities The learner can: 1. gree mobility activities with the individual and others Exercise can be both formal and informal. It could also take place as a group or as an individual. Exercise as a formal programme will be assessed by a physiotherapist and will help to inc rease mobility, improve strength stamina or suppleness. An exercise programme has usually been devised by a specialist in order to meet a specific outcome, so it is important to encourage the individual to follow the programme by explaining it’s importance and getting them to agree with it.You need to carry out an exercise programme exactly as specified in the care plan and record and report the outcomes and any problems at each step. Others involved in an individual’s mobility activities could include an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, G. P. or community nurse. If the mobility activities are less formal and the outcome required is to maintain the individual’s mobility on a daily basis this can be done through active support and encouragement. You should encourage the individual to do things for themselves and participate in activity and exercise where possible.An example would be to encourage their participation in household activities You should ident ify and agree with the individual the best way for them to maintain their mobility and any preferences to the form of exercise they prefer. It is important to ensure the individual agrees as it is important they are willing to participate in order for the programme to work. 2. remove or minimise hazards in the environment before beginning a mobility activity It is important to carry out a risk assessment of the environment prior to beginning a mobility activity.This is to ensure the health and safety of the individual and yourself and prevent any accidents or injuries from occurring. You need to carry out a risk assessment in relation to both the activity and the individual. This will include * The floor surface is safe and free of trip hazards * The support the individual needs in the area of equipment and number of carers * Ensure any walking aids to be used are being used properly and have been measured correctly for size of the individualIf the individual is wheelchair bound or bed bound * Ensure the chair/bed is stable and the brakes are on 3. check the suitability of an individual’s clothing and footwear for safety and mobility The individual should be wearing comfortable, easy wear clothing items to allow for mobility and unrestricted movement. Shoes should be comfortable and firm and offer good support and with non slip soles. The correct type of clothing is also important to preserve an individual’s dignity if they are bending and stretching. . check the safety and cleanliness of mobility equipment and appliances. Any equipment used should be checked to ensure it is safe and clean before use. Any walking aids should be measured correctly and be the correct size for the individual. Usually any equipment to be used will be recommended by a professional such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, who will ensure the individual can used the aid correctly and safely. Walking sticks – for an individual needing some support, mai nly to give confidenceTo ensure a walking stick is the correct height for the individual you need to ask them to hold the stick in the hand opposite their â€Å"bad† side if there is one otherwise in their dominant hand eg right or left handed. Their hand should be level with the top of their thigh when resting on the stick, elbow slightly bent, shoulders level. Ensure the ferrule (suction foot) is not worn to avoid the stick slipping when leant on. Quadrupeds and tripods – for individuals who have difficulty walking on one particular leg Quadrupeds are for individuals with very poor mobility in one leg such as hip r knee degeneration or stroke. To ensure this is the correct size use the same method as described for the walking stick and again check the ferrules are not worn. Walking frames – for individuals needing considerable support Again use the same method to measure if they are the correct size as with the walking stick and again check the ferrules are no t worn. Wheelchair All wheelchairs should be fitted with the appropriate cushions to minimise the risk of developing pressure area problems Outcome 3 Be able to support individuals to keep mobile 1. romote the active participation of the individual during a mobility activity Active participation is a way of working that recognises an individual’s right to participate in the activities of everyday life as independently as possible; the individual is regarded as an active partner in their own care or support, rather than a passive recipient. It is important to encourage active participation of the individual during a mobility exercise through encouragement and support. You should encourage them to stretch just a little more or try one more repetition, providing it is following the set plan of care.Instead of clearing away their crockery after a meal, encourage them to assist you where possible. Don’t use a wheelchair to move an individual around just because it is quicke r. It is important to give an individual the time to do things at their pace rather than at yours. Sometimes a specific piece of equipment may be able to be used to assist the individual to participate in the move. For example – an individual may be able to transfer themselves from a wheelchair to a chair either by the use of a transfer board or simply by sing their upper body strength to slide across, once you have removed the wheelchair arm for them. This encourages the individual to exercise their upper body muscles and actively participate in the move, rather than you using a hoist to transfer them. 2. give feedback and encouragement to the individual during mobility activities. It is important to encourage and support an individual during mobility activities. This will increase their confidence and affect how well the individual carries out the activity.It is also important to ensure that the exercise is not too difficult or painful for the individual as this will make t hem reluctant to participate. Always report this if the individual is suffering pain or discomfort during the activity. Discuss any reluctance they may have to participate with them especially if the plan of care advises they are capable of the activity. It may be a lack of confidence or fear of falling which is stopping them from participating. Gentle encouragement, support and discussion will encourage the individual to be more willing to attempt the activity.Never be tempted to change the exercise activity which a physiotherapist has recommended, because an individual finds it easier as this could cause further mobility problems or pain. You can give an individual feedback on their improved mobility. Remind them of how much they have improved since starting the mobility activities, for example, â€Å"When you started these moves Mrs B you could only do five repetitions now you can do fifteen and twice as quickly†. Outcome 4 Be able to observe, record and report on activiti es to support MobilityThe learner can: 1. observe an individual to monitor changes and responses during a mobility activity As a carer you are in a good position to be able to monitor changes and responses to an individual’s mobility activity. These observations are vital when planning the care an individual needs. If you observe the individual having difficulties or improvements in their mobility, if the individual complains of pain or suffers the loss of confidence in a particular technique, it is important to report and record this.Who you report these changes to, will depend on the plan of care but it could be your senior or manager, the GP, community nurse, occupational therapist or physiotherapist. For example As a carer it may be your role to encourage and monitor how many times an individual is able to squeeze a rubber ball, to strengthen their hand and arm muscles after a stroke. By counting and reporting on the number of repetitions carried out you will enable the p hysiotherapist to see any improvements in the individual’s mobility. 2. record observations of mobility activityRecording an individual’s progress on a mobility activity is important. You need to carry out an exercise programme exactly as specified in the care plan and record and report the outcomes and any problems at each step. This is necessary as the physiotherapist will need to review what progress the individual is making, so that the exercise programme can be adjusted as and when needed. You will need to note how often the individual carried out the exercises and if you noticed any improvement to their flexibility or strength, alertness, general level of fitness and mobility.This should be recorded in the care plan notes. 3. report on progress and/or problems relating to the mobility activity including: * choice of activities If an individual enjoys a particular form or type of mobility activity, this should be recorded so that other are aware. It should also be reported to the person in charge of their mobility activity plan eg Physiotherapist. They will then be able to write an exercise plan to suit the individual based on the type of activities they enjoy.There are numerous mobility activities which individuals could take part in, some as a group activity and some as individuals, formal and informal. It is important that an individual agrees with the activity and also cooperates in it otherwise the activity will not take place or benefit them. * Equipment * Appliances These are items which assist an individual to become or continue to be mobile, by providing support. This includes walking sticks, crutches, quadrupeds and walking frames, transfer boards, wheelchairs, mobility scooters etc.It is important to monitor and regularly check how an individual is progressing when using any type of mobility appliance or equipment. As their mobility changes so might the aid they need for support change. If an individual has been using mobility equ ipment or appliance for support, whilst recovering from an injury or illness, it is important to encourage them to manage without it, before they become too dependent on it. If you feel an individual is not managing to use an appliance or piece of equipment correctly or safely, you should report this immediately the support provided. It is important to immediately report on any problems regarding the mobility support provided to an individual. This could be that you feel the support is inadequate or even excessive. For example the plan of care advises two carers assist the individual to move with the aid of a hoist, where you feel one carer would be sufficient as the individual is able and willing to use a transfer board, because their mobility had improved. You should always report accurately any observations you make regarding an individual’s support needs.

Doping is a Fool’s Game - 590 Words

All athletes of all sports on a professional level must be required to undergo drug testing for performance enhancing drugs prior to participating in any sporting event to ensure an equal level playing field for all competing athletes, no matter the sport. Furthermore, performance enhancing drugs are illegal and must remain this way in order to keep fairness in the competitive world of sports. The bottom line is that athletes should not be able to do performance enhancing drugs and continue to be allowed to performance in these sports. The unfairness of doing these drugs does not allow for a fair game. Ultimately, these cheating athletes are superior in the field and dominate the other athletes that do not take steroids and how can you call that a fair game when the athletes are not equal in performance due to a enhancing drug. To further the argument, performance enhancing drugs must remain against the law to protect the athlete’s health and well being. If today’s athletes are going to be so careless and take these drugs, we as a society must step in and take control of what these athletes are putting in their bodies. And if they continue to break the law by taking performance enhancing drugs, then they must suffer the consequences by possibly being banned from the sport for an extended period of time or a lifetime ban, which is would a result of their salaries and livelihood, endorsements and possible prison time. We must take this issue with more than a grain