Recently, a professor at Auburn University expunged the
word "nigger" from every page that contained it in The Adventures of
Huckleberry Finn. This action exemplifies the problems that occur when one
seeks to "modernize" a work of literature that is set in a historical context. Quite
simply, the novel loses its verisimilitude. In Twain's novel, for instance, the n-word
is used because this is what people said, and Huck merely uses it as one would use any
common word; he has no denigration intended. In fact, as the narrative continues and
Huck begins to perceive Jim as a loving and caring friend, he decides to "go to hell"
for protecting an escaped slave, believing that slavery is wrong. So, if Huck did not
speak of Jim as merely a n----, how would he be able to change in his perceptions, a key
theme of the novel.
Therefore, whenever people read a
novel, they must accept the verisimilitude which exists in this novel, even if they find
some words or situations offensive by modern standards. Clearly, Margaret Mitchell
attempted a realistic portrayal of the Old South, so she used words and situations that
are realistic to the setting of pre-Civil War and post-Civil War. Otherwise, the
narrative loses its value. Besides, Scarlett actually cares for Mammy. And, Prissy is
meant more for comic relief than she is for racial ridicule. Readers must not forget
that Gone With the Wind is a historical romance, so they need not
be so politically critical. It is meant to portray the drama of the South under the
impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Novels are
works of literature that often reflect the human experience of their time period. Are
they, now, to be censored, edited, or maligned because they represent their era
realistically? These works of literature are an important part of history, and must
remain so.
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