I'd echo the ideas of kplhardison and suggest that you take a look at how the laws of the time served to inform Huck's view of moral behavior. Due to the prevalent views of the time, codified by law, Huck believes that helping Jim escape is wrong (because it is illegal). Aiding Jim's freedom is tantamount to stealing from Miss Watson, in Huck's mind. This is true, in part, due to the laws that stipulate Jim's legal status.
Since you are relating this line of inquiry to the novel, an excellent direction to take is the effect of fugitive slave laws on the relationship between Huck and Jim. You might explore how Huck would react if Jim were to be captured. You might also explore how Huck would feel emotionally if were to be captured. along with Huck's feelings, you might explore what Huck's moral perception would be were Jim to be captured. Your thesis could then present the findings of this analytical exploration and ask what the details of the relationship between Huck and Jim suggest...
(The entire section contains 6 answers and 827 words.)
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