Self Discovery in Huckleberry Finn and Catcher in the Rye :: comparison compare contrast essays

Self Discovery in Huckleberry Finn and Catcher in the Rye Huckleberry Finn and Holden Caulfield make take journey into self-discovery. In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Huck Finn is trying to find purpose and identity through conflicting of ethical motive. While Holden Caulfield in Catcher in the Rye, is an adolescent struggling to find advance into manhood. In comparison, they are both on a journey towards maturity and identity. Life itself is a journey full of bonding and experiences which lead to wisdom and understanding. Without maturity one may never have these essential experiences. This leads to an empty shell of a person, never truly feeling passion, love or peace. Huck Finn is a young boy deciding which morals to hold true. The quest for whats right is long and confusing. During his adventure is forced to choose between his morals and his conscience. When Huck runs into the generosity hunters he is forced to make one of these decisions. He must choose whethe r to turn his run-away slave friend Jim as his conscience advises or to trust his morals and protect his friend in need. Fortunately, his will is strong and he creates an elaborate lie to prevent Jims capture. Huck seeks refuge in nature, where right and wrong dont exist and lifes beauty is what is truly important. He mentions that nature is peaceful and he need not worry about either his morality or conscience hardly is allowed to ponder these personal discrepancies. Holden Caulfield, however, has a much more complex yet equally important struggle. His struggle is of his own hypocrisy and misunderstanding. This struggle can be overwhelming for some and it is for Holden who requires help to come to terms with maturity. Even though he is constantly speaks as if he is experienced in connection and bonding, they were eer just fa ades. Holden thinks he is superior to his environment because he has a false knowledge of it and its workings. This is best explained by his reaction his old friend June whom he would handle to have a meaningful relationship with but cant come to grips on how. Inspite of all he thinks he knows he is really only the fraudulence he despises. Both Huck and Holden must complete their own journeys to become complete individuals.