The functions of Chapter Eight are to bring Huck and Jim together as twin protagonists representing escape, to add color of time and place through language and description of customs, and to establish the character of Jim. What does this chapter suggest about their relationship with and standing in society?

Both Jim and Huck feel alienated from society, and want to escape from those who try to control them.

Explanation:

In a moment of adversity, Huck finds a friend in Jim, with whom he can face the difficulties of living on the island and talk about the challenges they endure in society.

Jim's actions reveal how slavery is socioeconomically and racially oppressing him. Jim considering Huck's provisions as witchcraft show how poorly fed slaves were. He has such a difficult position in society, that he sees freedom as a kind of wealth. Furthermore, to Jim, seems like superstition serves as an expectation of bad things happening, which can be understood as reference to the constant suffering he endures due to social oppression.