Final answer:
The central theme in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is the conflict between societal norms and individual freedom, specifically focused on racism and injustice. The emergence of this theme is seen through the contrast between the river and shore scenes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central theme in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn that emerges in this excerpt is the conflict between societal norms and individual freedom. The emergence of this theme can be seen in the contrast between the river and shore scenes.
The river represents freedom and a connection to nature, while the shore represents the constraints and prejudices of society. Through Huck's desire to escape society and live on the raft with Jim, Twain critiques the social norms of the time that perpetuated racism and injustice.
This theme is significant to the social norms of the time because it challenges the accepted belief that slavery and racial discrimination were justified. Twain's depiction of Huck's moral growth and his rejection of societal norms reflects the changing attitudes towards race and the need for individuals to question and challenge unjust social norms.