1. Discussion Questions for Huckleberry Finn
Regarding Racism, Stereotypes, and “The Mask”
Discussion Questions for Huckleberry Finn

2. Questions about Racism
What is racism? Is it a belief? Is it an action?

3. Questions about Racism
What causes racism? What beliefs do people invoke to try to justify racism? In what kinds of situations do we see or find racism?

4. Questions about Racism
When did you first recognize your own racial, ethnic, religious (or other) identity? What does it mean to you to identify yourself in this way? What do you like most and least about being a member of your group?

5. Questions about Racism
How has racism affected you or people you know?

6. Questions about Racism
Do you think most minorities have a positive or negative image of whites? Do you think most whites have a positive or negative image of other races?
What's the biggest misconception blacks have about whites? Whites about blacks?

7. The “N” Word
In general, who can or can't say the word? When, if ever, can it be said?

8. The “N” Word
How do you feel about the use of the word?

9. The “N” Word
Is the use of the word in the classroom different from its use outside the classroom?

10. The “N” Word
Is it different to read a text by an African American who uses it than it is to read it in a text by a non-African American? Why or why not?

11. The “N” Word
Does the use of the word in a "classic" literary work give it validity outside of the classroom? If so, how?