British university puts trigger warning on Huckleberry Finn over 'use of the n-word'

British university puts trigger warning on Huckleberry Finn over 'use of the n-word'
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Jamie  Micklethwaite

By Jamie Micklethwaite


Published: 25/08/2022

- 09:51

Updated: 14/02/2023

- 10:43

The classic American novel is the latest work of literature to receive a trigger warning, this time from Exeter University

Classic American novel Huckleberry Finn has been hit with a trigger warning by Exeter University.

The book, written by Mark Twain and published in 1884, details the adventures of a young boy and his friend, a runaway slave, in the deep south.


The novel has been credited for its commentary on racism, and credited as one of the most important pieces of American literature.

However, it was banned in the state of Massachusetts for its "coarse language" and perceived racism, and is still blacklisted in some US schools today.

And the University of Exeter has chosen to place a trigger warning on the book, urging students to refer to its policy on the use of the n-word.

University of Exeter
University of Exeter
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Advice from the university and published by The Times reads: "Set in the pre-abolition south, it tells the story of a river journey undertaken by a white boy fleeing an abusive father and a black man escaping slavery.

"Please be aware that this novel also features scenes of murder, violence and child abuse.

"You may wish to refer again to our policy on the use of the n-word in this module."

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen has accused universities of "preparing children for the world of woke" by placing trigger warnings on literary classics.

“Who is actually calling for these trigger or content warnings?

“Is it resilient young people or woke-afflicted academics? It is getting out of control and harming the next generation.

“When I attended university, it was to be educated and prepared for the world of work.

“It now appears our universities are preparing their students for a world of woke.”

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