PlanetPapers.com RSS Feedhttps://www.planetpapers.com/ To Kill a Mockingbird Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird, published in the year of 1960, is the American classic novel awarded the Pulitzer Prize in fiction as well as the Brotherhood Award of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. The racism which is prevalent in many small American towns in the 1930s is illustrated with profound imagery in To Kill a Mockingbird. Although there are several characters in the book, the true main character is the young narrator's father, Atticus Finch, a man of great integrity and intelligence. He is a very heroic figure in more ways than one. Atticus possesses such traits as being principled, determined, and what's more, he's a teacher to others. By looking at To Kill a Mockingbird, one can see that Lee utilizes physical description, dialogue, and actions to characterize Atticus as a heroic individual; this is important because Atticus is a very serene, but spirited man. The most important legacy Atticus teaches in To Kill a Mockingbird is the message about how best to educate a child. From the beginning of the book, it's obvious that Atticus' life is down in luck. "It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyways and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do"(124). He strives to instill in Scout and Jem three specific values: spirit, bravery and tolerance of others. Atticus tries to clarify the disposition that's shown in the book by saying that it's important to appreciate the good qualities in people and comprehend the bad qualities by treating others with compassion or trying to see life from their standpoints. "If you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you'll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view--until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" (30). He teaches this life lesson to show that it's possible to live with principles without losing sight of hope or acting skeptical. For example, Atticus is able to highly regard Mrs. Henry Lafayette Dubose's courage even though he disapproves of Mrs. Dubose's continuous acts of racism. "She had her own views about things, a lot different from mine, maybe...son, I told you that if you hadn't lost your head I'd have made you go read to her. I wanted you to 2006-06-13T15:41:31-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-6534.aspx Both as a father and as a lawyer, Atticus is a failure. In the 1960 novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird”, Harper Lee explores the concept of racism in the legal system and the upbringing of children. These notions are shown as one of the main patriarchs, Atticus Finch. He shows his children a principled path through life, and through his court case, he reinforces these philosophies. He also shows the small southern town of Maycomb what it really feels like to be a Negro. Atticus did not fail at either of these responsibilities: as a lawyer, he did not fail, and as a father, he didn’t fail either. He succeeded what he set out to do, with flying colours, and taught everybody a lesson or two on how to behave. Atticus Finch is a success as a father because he has raised, with the help of Calpurnia, two healthy young children. He has helped them deal with their own emotions, and in turn, helped them stand in another person’s shoes. Atticus teaches Scout (the narrator) how to be more reflective. On page 33 of the novel Atticus says: “First of all,” he said, “if you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you'll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view – until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” In this quote, Atticus is trying to tell Scout to be more reflective in the way she acts. When Jem and Scout have finished reading to Mrs Dubose, and have just found out that she is dead, Atticus tells them what true courage is. (Page 124): “I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do. Mrs Dubose won, all ninety-eight pounds of her. According to her views, she died beholden to nothing and nobody. She was the bravest person I ever knew.” Atticus’ powerful words helped the children come to terms with the many levels of meaning in the world. He explains that things are not just in black 2006-05-17T10:01:55-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Both-as-a-father-and-as-a-lawyer,-Atticus-is-a-failure_-6508.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird “To Kill a Mocking Bird” by Harper Lee is a novel set in the prejudice American town of Maycomb in the 1930’s. I feel she portrays the theme of prejudice extremely evidently in the characters of Bob Ewell and Tom Robinson. The story is written from the perspective of a girl named Scout who writes about the events that happen in Maycomb in this period of time. One of the things that happen is that Tom Robinson, a black man, is tried and accused of raping Mayella Ewell, the daughter of Bob, a local layabout and drunk, even thought it is much more likely that Bob caused her injuries. Tom would appear to be a much more honourable man than Bob. One of the main differences between them is their local reputation. This quote is regarding Tom and his family. “They’re clean living folks.” This suggests that they try to stay out of trouble and try to live as best they can. On the other hand, Bob Ewell and his family don’t have such a good reputation. “The Ewell’s have been the disgrace of Maycomb for three generations.” This quote tells us that many people aren’t proud of having the Ewell as residents. A second significant difference between the characters in question would be their home life. A general quote of Tom’s home life would be. “In the December dusk, their cabins looked neat & snug... doorways glowing from fires inside.” However the Ewell residence doesn’t sound quite as charming. “It’s windows... in the summer were covered with greasy strips of cheesecloth to keep out the varmints.” These quotes tell us it would be more pleasant to stay in the Robinson house rather than in the Ewells. A third example of comparison between Bob and Tom could be their work. A typical quote of Tom’s would be during the court-case when Mr Link Deas announces, “That boy’s worked 8 years for me and I’ve never had a speck of trouble outta him.” This quote gives an idea of how hardworking Tom is. This next quote on the Ewells describes the laziness of the family. “The Ewells...none of em had done an honest days work.” This gives an idea of just how lethargic this family is. I would consider the personalities of these two men as a huge contrast. For example, “Toms manners were as good as Atticuss, he would not 2005-01-31T22:28:11-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-6022.aspx What does the title of the book refer to? How is this connected to patriotism? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is about the racist South during the Great Depression. The title literally means killing mockingbirds. They are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Atticus and Jeremy Atticus Finch. The title connects to patriotism because one of the main actions of a patriot is to help the helpless. One can help the country not only through actions, but also by words and thoughts. “To Kill a Mockingbird” literally means to not only cause death of a person, but to hurt a “Mockingbird”. A “mockingbird” is literally a common singing bird that is remarkable for its exact imitation of the notes of other birds. In this story it stands for an innocent man that reflects the community in which he lives in. “Killing” a “mockingbird”, in other words, is about defeating an innocent person who reflects the community. Patriotism is the love and devotion to one’s country. A patriot must be willing to risk his own life for his country. Patriots do the right thing for the country and care about equality. Patriots do their civic duties and respect for different viewpoints. Arthur “Boo” Radley is an excellent example of a “mockingbird”, because it not only says so in the book, but he is someone from the lower hierarchy, who is weaker than others. His hair was described as “feathery” like a bird, which is a hint that he is a Mockingbird. He reflects the Maycomb community by staying inside of his house after his father’s death. He is not willing to have anything to do with other people because that will lead them to gossip and eventually to trouble. He has been supposedly “with the wrong kind of people”. He stabbed his father with a pair of scissors and went back to his work, but because he was a child, not knowing what’s wrong, he can be seen as innocent. His father traps him at home, “killing” the innocent child. Boo Radley no longer has a life, and stays at home. At the end of the book he comes out and saves Scout and Jem when Bob Ewell tries to kill them. Mr. Heck Tate doesn’t tell on him because Boo has done something good, even though it was violent. Telling on him would be “killing a 2004-06-11T00:56:36-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/What-does-the-title-of-the-book-refer-to-How-is-this-connected-to-patriotism-5697.aspx What does the title of the book refer to? How is this connected to patriotism? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is about the racist South during the Great Depression. The title literally means killing mockingbirds. They are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Atticus and Jeremy Atticus Finch. The title connects to patriotism because one of the main actions of a patriot is to help the helpless. One can help the country not only through actions, but also by words and thoughts. “To Kill a Mockingbird” literally means to not only cause death of a person, but to hurt a “Mockingbird”. A “mockingbird” is literally a common singing bird that is remarkable for its exact imitation of the notes of other birds. In this story it stands for an innocent man that reflects the community in which he lives in. “Killing” a “mockingbird”, in other words, is about defeating an innocent person who reflects the community. Patriotism is the love and devotion to one’s country. A patriot must be willing to risk his own life for his country. Patriots do the right thing for the country and care about equality. Patriots do their civic duties and respect for different viewpoints. Arthur “Boo” Radley is an excellent example of a “mockingbird”, because it not only says so in the book, but he is someone from the lower hierarchy, who is weaker than others. His hair was described as “feathery” like a bird, which is a hint that he is a Mockingbird. He reflects the Maycomb community by staying inside of his house after his father’s death. He is not willing to have anything to do with other people because that will lead them to gossip and eventually to trouble. He has been supposedly “with the wrong kind of people”. He stabbed his father with a pair of scissors and went back to his work, but because he was a child, not knowing what’s wrong, he can be seen as innocent. His father traps him at home, “killing” the innocent child. Boo Radley no longer has a life, and stays at home. At the end of the book he comes out and saves Scout and Jem when Bob Ewell tries to kill them. Mr. Heck Tate doesn’t tell on him because Boo has done something good, even though it was violent. Telling on him would be “killing a 2004-06-11T00:56:33-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/What-does-the-title-of-the-book-refer-to-How-is-this-connected-to-patriotism-5696.aspx What does the title of the book refer to? How is this connected to patriotism? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is about the racist South during the Great Depression. The title literally means killing mockingbirds. They are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Atticus and Jeremy Atticus Finch. The title connects to patriotism because one of the main actions of a patriot is to help the helpless. One can help the country not only through actions, but also by words and thoughts. “To Kill a Mockingbird” literally means to not only cause death of a person, but to hurt a “Mockingbird”. A “mockingbird” is literally a common singing bird that is remarkable for its exact imitation of the notes of other birds. In this story it stands for an innocent man that reflects the community in which he lives in. “Killing” a “mockingbird”, in other words, is about defeating an innocent person who reflects the community. Patriotism is the love and devotion to one’s country. A patriot must be willing to risk his own life for his country. Patriots do the right thing for the country and care about equality. Patriots do their civic duties and respect for different viewpoints. Arthur “Boo” Radley is an excellent example of a “mockingbird”, because it not only says so in the book, but he is someone from the lower hierarchy, who is weaker than others. His hair was described as “feathery” like a bird, which is a hint that he is a Mockingbird. He reflects the Maycomb community by staying inside of his house after his father’s death. He is not willing to have anything to do with other people because that will lead them to gossip and eventually to trouble. He has been supposedly “with the wrong kind of people”. He stabbed his father with a pair of scissors and went back to his work, but because he was a child, not knowing what’s wrong, he can be seen as innocent. His father traps him at home, “killing” the innocent child. Boo Radley no longer has a life, and stays at home. At the end of the book he comes out and saves Scout and Jem when Bob Ewell tries to kill them. Mr. Heck Tate doesn’t tell on him because Boo has done something good, even though it was violent. Telling on him would be “killing a 2004-06-11T00:56:30-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/What-does-the-title-of-the-book-refer-to-How-is-this-connected-to-patriotism-5695.aspx What does the title of the book refer to? How is this connected to patriotism? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is about the racist South during the Great Depression. The title literally means killing mockingbirds. They are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Atticus and Jeremy Atticus Finch. The title connects to patriotism because one of the main actions of a patriot is to help the helpless. One can help the country not only through actions, but also by words and thoughts. “To Kill a Mockingbird” literally means to not only cause death of a person, but to hurt a “Mockingbird”. A “mockingbird” is literally a common singing bird that is remarkable for its exact imitation of the notes of other birds. In this story it stands for an innocent man that reflects the community in which he lives in. “Killing” a “mockingbird”, in other words, is about defeating an innocent person who reflects the community. Patriotism is the love and devotion to one’s country. A patriot must be willing to risk his own life for his country. Patriots do the right thing for the country and care about equality. Patriots do their civic duties and respect for different viewpoints. Arthur “Boo” Radley is an excellent example of a “mockingbird”, because it not only says so in the book, but he is someone from the lower hierarchy, who is weaker than others. His hair was described as “feathery” like a bird, which is a hint that he is a Mockingbird. He reflects the Maycomb community by staying inside of his house after his father’s death. He is not willing to have anything to do with other people because that will lead them to gossip and eventually to trouble. He has been supposedly “with the wrong kind of people”. He stabbed his father with a pair of scissors and went back to his work, but because he was a child, not knowing what’s wrong, he can be seen as innocent. His father traps him at home, “killing” the innocent child. Boo Radley no longer has a life, and stays at home. At the end of the book he comes out and saves Scout and Jem when Bob Ewell tries to kill them. Mr. Heck Tate doesn’t tell on him because Boo has done something good, even though it was violent. Telling on him would be “killing a 2004-06-11T00:56:15-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/What-does-the-title-of-the-book-refer-to-How-is-this-connected-to-patriotism-5694.aspx How Is The Message From The Movie Different From The Book? When Harper Lee published To Kill A Mockingbird in 1960, she did not yet know that it was going to be made into a movie. The movie, filmed under the same title around that time, differs from the book at some points. The main themes of the book and the movie are different. While the novel mainly deals with racism, patriotism, and the mob attitude of society, the movie partially ignores these, if not totally. The movie concentrates more on the scenes dealing with Tom Robinson’s case. The issue of racism is handled differently in the movie than the book. The book concentrates on racism in the South during the Great Depression. One of the ways Harper Lee does this is by introducing Dolphus Raymond. Dolphus Raymond, a white man, is married to a black woman and has children with her. Neither the white nor the black societies accept them because they are not part of either society, they believe. This shows that a community back then in the South was often divided into two parts, divided by race. The invisible division is also shown when the county starts to gossip about Atticus, calling him a “nigger lover”. In addition, Harper Lee shows racism by presenting the blacks as inferiors. When Jem and Scout go to the Black Church with Calpurnia in the book, they are quite surprised by the blacks’ illiteracy and their poorness. The fact that blacks do the dirty, manual work in the novel is another proof of their inferiority. Zeebo, a black character, is the county’s trash man. In the movie, however, this segregation in society and jobs is not as well portrayed, mainly because these important parts are omitted. Simple things in the novel are blamed on the blacks, but the movie leaves this out. It was the black presence that made Mr. Radley take Boo out of the jail. An additional proof of racism in the book is Atticus’ remark, namely when he says that Tom Robinson’s case is a lost case from the beginning simply because he is black sued by a white man. The court scene of the movie does not give off the same impression and racism does not become a main theme in the movie. The only character that seems to be racist in the movie is Bob Ewell, who gets insulted by the fact that Atticus believes a black 2004-06-11T00:54:43-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/How-Is-The-Message-From-The-Movie-Different-From-The-Book-5693.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird To Kill A Mockingbird To Kill A Mockingbird tells a dramatic story of a small, southern town and the difficult issues it faces. Prejudice plays a serious role in telling the account of a black man accused of rape and the effects it had on two children. Harper Lee allows the reader to experience the trial through a child’s eyes and see a negative aspect of human nature. Lee uses Scout’s perspective to portray a sense of innocence, allow explanations and point out details to the reader. The author uses Scout’s outlook to render a feeling of innocence amidst the mature issues of the small county of Maycomb. At a point when Mr. Cunningham and his friends threaten to do Atticus and Tom Robinson harm, she and her brother, Jem, and a friend, Dill, approach Mr. Cunningham and inquire about his son. Facing Scout under the circumstances brings out a sense of guilt in Mr. Cunningham, and he orders his friends to go home. Scout’s childish conversation with Mr. Cunningham made him think of his son and what he was doing that night. When Scout first converses with Mr. Dolphus Raymond, she is wary of him, but soon warms up to him after she learns why he lives the way he does. She views Mr. Dolphus Raymond, a white man married to a black woman, without prejudice – while the community sees him as a traitor to his race. Scout was able to see him as a human being who is simply different than everyone else. Lee cleverly utilizes Scout to depict a child-like feeling among the serious problems that this sleepy, southern town faces. The author uses Scout’s age to subtly explain mature themes and situations to the reader. In the story, Atticus explains to Scout what real courage is. “Real courage isn’t a man with a gun. Real courage is going into something, knowing you’re not gonna win.” In view of the fact that Scout is not old enough to understand a few things, this scenario gives the author a chance to let the reader know what real courage is, according to Atticus’ terms. Later, when the Finch’s cook, Calpurnia, takes the children to First Purchase, an all-black church, they, for the first time, hear Cal talk like the rest of the Negroes. Scout asked Calpurnia why she talked like that if she knew better, and Cal calmly replied, “Folks 2004-02-05T02:37:13-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-5433.aspx How language contributes to theme Harper Lee uses a variety of language styles to establish the distinct characteristics of the characters she creates. The many forms of diction and dialect used throughout the novel To Kill a Mockingbird help accentuate the realism of the characters to the reader. The story takes place in a small town in Maycomb county, Alabama, so it’s not surprising that siblings, Scout and Jem, and their friend Dill all talk with a southern accent. In a conversation between the three of them in Chapter 1, the southern dialect is quite evident. Jem, who is meeting Dill for the first time says, “Shoot, no wonder, then. Scout yonder’s been readin’ ever since she was born, and she ain’t even started to school yet. You look right puny for goin’ on seven.” The use of the words ain’t, and yonder give the reader a more realistic feeling of being in the south. If the characters spoke with proper English, the reader would have a hard time believing that these children live in a small southern town. Without even being told that the story takes place in the south, the reader can figure it out just by the dialect alone. In the same conversation, Jem makes fun of Dill’s name. Dill then replies, “ ‘s not any funnier’n yours.” When the text is read, the improper contractions help the reader hear the character’s voice. The written-out southern dialect helps the reader to not only read the dialogue, but also speak it as if it were the character. In doing so, the character comes alive through the words, and the reader can sense that. The author also uses diction throughout the story. The different vocabularies each of the characters have can tell the reader many things about that person. For instance, in chapter 3, Burris Ewell yells to the teacher, “Ain’t no snot-nosed slut of a schoolteacher ever born c’n make me do nothin’! You ain’t makin’ me go nowhere missus. You just remember that, you ain’t makin’ me go nowhere!” From this quote alone, the reader might get the impression that Burris is uneducated. The use of the words slut and snot-nosed inform the reader that the character obviously doesn’t have a wonderful vocabulary. If it had been written, “no conceited and unchaste school teacher is forcing me to proceed anywhere,” the reader would’ve gotten a completely different impression of the character. Burris, in fact, 2002-09-18T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/How-language-contributes-to-theme-4997.aspx Do you agree with Miss Maudie that Maycomb has advanced as a result of the Tom Robinson case? <H2>“And I thought to myself, well, we’re making a step-it’s just a baby step, but it’s a step.” Do you agree with Miss Maudie that Maycomb has advanced as a result of the Tom Robinson case?</H2> To Kill a Mockingbird, crafted expressly, intricately and beautifully by Harper Lee exhibits the unrelenting Maycomb, a small town with big issues. This classical marvel along with its “authentic humour,” is intertwined with the bigot and prejudice views of the township. The commencement of the Tom Robinson trial, in which a Negro is unjustly charged with the sexual assault of a young white girl triggers an onslaught towards blacks by the white people with horrific outcomes. But, it is one white man’s attempt to make things just with all people that leads to remarkable results. Atticus Finch sets a standard of morality and wisdom. Through his influence and although his case is lost, Miss Maudie utters that the town is “making a step” (p.238). This factual response is justifiable, as we notice the abnormal amount of discussing taking place behind the jury doors, some characters new analysis of the Negroes and foretelling that the younger generations can bring new hope for the “disease” infested town of Maycomb. Throughout much of the depression, Negroes have suffered from frequent massacres, threats and sexual assaults. Worse still is the ongoing ridicule the blacks faced even after they had been set free. Since the early years of freedom and when blacks were allowed to defend their name and innocence in court, they received harsh jail terms –even if they were innocent. As the astute Reverend Sykes puts it, he had “…..(never) seen any jury decide in favour of a coloured man over a white man.” (p.230) The higher power, in this case, the white people, always seemed to prevail. Thus, meaning it took the jury less than four or five minutes to make their final decision. The Tom Robinson trial was relatively different from the other predictable cases. The case in itself was significant. This particular case came along with a message, which would someday banish all prejudice between the two races. The duration of the trial is exceptionally protracted. This factor fortifies the dreary hopes of the black people. It was very atypical for the jury to take as long as two hours to come to a decision. Even the poignant Atticus had his expectations rise after seeing the jury out for 2002-08-11T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Do-you-agree-with-Miss-Maudie-that-Maycomb-has-advanced-as-a-result-of-the-Tom-Robinson-case-4936.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird: A Battle of Good vs. Evil "Discrimination is a hellhound that gnaws at Negroes in every waking moment of their lives to remind them that the lie of their inferiority is accepted as truth in the society dominating them." Martin Luther King, Jr., speech, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Atlanta, Georgia, August 16, 1967. To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, is a classic novel that takes place during the 1930s where we are introduced to the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, in which there was prejudice and stereotyping towards the people who were different then the general public. In the book, Jem and Scout learn the theme of prejudice and are taught by their father, Atticus, ways to use themes like courage and justice to prevent hatred and discrimination in their own lives. The main and underlying theme in the novel is that of prejudice. Prejudice has caused the pain and suffering of people for many centuries. Throughout the whole novel, there are many examples of racism and its destructive force in any society. An example of discrimination was when Francis, relative of Aunt Alexandra, talked about Atticus when he said, "He’s nothing but a nigger-lover!"(page 83) In the story, people who are unlike the majority get hurt by those who think less of them. Tom Robinson is one character who is discriminated by the biased community. Because Tom is black, the members of the white community look down upon him and treat him with no respect. Tom undergoes a court case after being accused of raping Mayella Ewell. Because Tom was black, he wasn’t given a fair trial and ended up receiving a guilty verdict. The guilty verdict is a direct result of a racist community. Tom was never given a fair chance in the trial, even though the evidence proves him innocent. People that are born differently often get mistreated and are discriminated against. Atticus described a type of prejudice to Jem when he said, "As you grow older, you'll see white men cheat black men every day of your life, but let me tell you something and don't you forget it-whenever a white man does that to a black man, no matter who he is, how rich he is, or how fine a family he comes from, that white man is trash."(page 220) Another character that faces the prejudice town is Boo Radley. Boo stays inside his house for a number of years 2002-04-23T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-A-Battle-of-Good-vs_-Evil-4680.aspx Integrity in To Kill a Mockingbird Believe it or not, individuals have trouble seeing black from white. Mankind has the ability to develop an immoral sense of integrity suited to their needs, yet morally accept their sense of integrity. The author of To Kill a Mockingbird illustrates this illusion portrayed by a Southern society. By using a 1930’s Southern point-of-view, Harper Lee demonstrates that integrity not only has the power to unite humankind, but to divide humankind as well. The setting of To Kill a Mockingbird, in a small Alabama community is constructed from the contradictions of Christianity and prejudice. Through prejudice and bigotry, the Southern society builds a strong sense of integrity that masks their immoral prejudice. The Southern culture of Maycomb derives from the antebellum culture of Christianity and slavery. The morals of slavery greatly clashed with the morals of Christianity. While Southerners desperately needed slavery, they also needed to maintain their Christian sense of integrity that stated all of humankind must be treated according to the laws of God. To mask the immorality of prejudice, Southern society classified Negroes as not human, but of an inferior race. Incapable of confronting their immoral sense of prejudice, Southern culture permitted a sense of integrity based on this deception. This occurs in all prejudiced senses of integrity and is a powerful dividing force of mankind. The community of Maycomb is built from this sense of integrity. Several events in To Kill a Mockingbird indicates that the community holds this immoral integrity. In To Kill a Mockingbird, it is apparent that the prejudiced sense of integrity is very strong in the town of Maycomb. After Mr. Radley shoots at an unknown figure in his backyard, (being Jem) he says, “got another barrel waiting for the next sound I hear in that patch, dog or nigger.” By denying Negro’s humanity, and neglecting the rights all humans should possess, Bradley draws a strong line between blacks and whites. The white society of Maycomb constructs a caste system, which has a degrading effect to the community. This prejudiced sense of integrity has a huge impact on society: it divides humankind. To Kill a Mockingbird illustrates that a prejudiced society strongly oppresses individuals who are affiliated with Negro’s in a positive light. Throughout To Kill a Mockingbird, the community of Maycomb continuously antagonizes Atticus, because he has gave a Negro the same rights as whites. Mrs. Dubose “Not only a Finch 2002-03-30T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Integrity-in-To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-4591.aspx Equality? Under the constitution all men, and women, are created equal. Unfortunately what the constitution reads and what the general population practices in every day (southern) society differs greatly. Most people have a predilection for how they feel towards other people and how they must act, depending on your rank in the ever-present caste system. The predetermined preference is one that is instilled in humans from the day they are born and it is near impossible to shake a person of these beliefs. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird this very caste system is clearly depicted through the eyes of a young girl and raises the question of how willing, or not so willing, people are to accept change or differences in one another. The stereotypes of Boo Radley being a dreadfully scary man whom is feared by all have drifted all the way down to even the young children of Maycomb. Scout’s description of the Radley’s home is as if she knew for a fact that the devil himself lived there. “The Radley place jutted into a sharp curve…The house was low…long ago darkened to the color of the slate gray yard around it…Rain-rotted shingles drooped…oak trees kept the sun away…the remains of a picket drunkenly guarded the front yard…”(Lee 8). Her opinion is most likely a colored one, the Radley house may be in slightly more disrepair than the other houses on the street, and it may even appear gloomy with the lack of flowers and such. No where in Scout’s description of the Radley home is there any mention of the house being even somewhat normal, she hardly even makes it sound like a house. Everything in the picture she gives the reader is on the sub, or lower lever. The house is low, the colors are dark, and she even throws in alliteration to make it sound more disgusting with the rain-rotted shingles. Then there is the metaphor comparing the sunshine of Boo’s life, Jem and Scout concerning the hole in the tree, to that being blocked out when Nathan filled it in with cement. If these stereotypes were to stop at the level of visually dissecting another’s home then it wouldn’t be such a bad thing, but they don’t! The thought of a caste system is usually related to the old Hindu culture in India, oh how very wrong this is. As with many small towns 2002-02-23T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Equality-4431.aspx Atticus Finch Character Sketch Atticus Finch, a nearly fifty defense lawyer for small Maycomb County, is the honorable father of main character Jean Louise (Scout) and Jemermy (Jem). He is the lawyer for accused black rapist, Tom Robinson, and he tries to change injustices and racism in his small hometown. Atticus' inner conflicts and moral dilemmas are expertly written in To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee. Atticus's physical appearance doesn't play a big part in the novel. Atticus is nearly fifty and wears glasses because his left eye is nearly blind. We can assume Atticus normally does not look his age, because Jem and Scout say he looks as old as he was for once. Atticus is also a very neat person, (as seen on page 202), and "He never loosened a scrap of clothing until he undressed at bedtime, and to Jem and me, this was the equivalent of him standing before us stark naked." Jem and Scout are Atticus' own children and even they haven't seen him casually dressed. Atticus' character isn't focused of for its appearance, but for his personality and inner strength. Atticus is very fair and just person. In a time when black people were still considered a lower class by almost all, Atticus believed in equality and equal rights for all. His beliefs were summarized in his powerful closing at Tom Robinson's trial. He said, on page 204, “Confident that you gentlemen, would go along with them on one assumption, the evil assumption, that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are immoral beings, that all Negroes are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption that of one mind of their caliber. Which gentlemen, we know is in itself a lie as black as Tom Robinson’s skin, a lie that I don’t have to point out to you. You know the truth. The truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men can’t be trusted around women, black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men.”Atticus fights for Tom Robinson with all of himself, he does not care about his skin color, only his innocence. Atticus represents all of the honorable people in Maycomb County. Atticus Finch is a very honest man. When his children ask his difficult questions he doesn't try and sugarcoat his answers, he is blunt and 2002-01-07T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Atticus-Finch-Character-Sketch-4259.aspx Society’s Intolerance In society, people are symbolized as mockingbirds because of their differences. The mockingbird is an animal that only sings for us and to harm such a creature would be a sin. The mockingbird can represent people where they are harmed for doing nothing wrong. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a work of fiction which displays intolerance of differences. The book displays prejudice and intolerance in different ways to various people. This leads to them being symbolized as mockingbirds or innocent creatures that have done no harm. In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the intolerance of differences results in Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, and Mayella Ewell symbolizing the mockingbird. Through the town’s intolerance, Boo Radley can be represented as a mockingbird. Arthur “Boo” Radley is a man that is misunderstood and is treated as something harmful to Maycomb. “Inside the house lived a malevolent phantom” (Lee 8). They blame Boo for their problems and tell stories about him even though they are untrue: People said he existed, but Jem and I had never seen him. People said he went out at night when the moon was down, and peeped in windows. When people’s azaleas froze in a cold snap, it was because he had breathed on them. Any stealthy small crimes committed in Maycomb were his work. Once the town was terrorized by a series of morbid nocturnal events: people’s chickens and household pets were found mutilated; although the culprit was Crazy Addie, who eventually drowned himself in Barker’s Eddy, people still looked at the Radley Place, unwilling to discard their initial suspicions (9). Aside from his cruel father, Arthur has never harmed anyone and is a kind and caring person who saved the lives of the Finch children when Bob Ewell attacked them. “To my way of thinkin’, Mr. Finch, taking the one man who’s done you and this town a great service an’ draggin’ him with his shy ways into the limelight - to me that’s a sin” (276). Arthur is used to things the way they are and bringing him into an unknown world would be like killing a mockingbird because he is not used to a regular society. Boo also leaves the children gifts in a knot-hole, mended Jem’s pants and gave Scout a blanket. Boo chooses to remain inside his house so that he does not have to deal with problems 2001-12-29T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Society’s-Intolerance-4190.aspx Relationships in To Kill a Mockingbird At the heart of “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, is the relationship between Atticus and Bob. Before the trial, Atticus is well respected by Mr. Ewell, but he soon turns sour upon the realization that Atticus is actually going to fight for a black man against him. This relationship is used to portray the books key themes of understanding and tolerance, values, and reactions when morals are questioned. One of the novel’s key themes is the theme of understanding and tolerance. Lee is able to show that even in the most unpleasant of situations, that men with good values can see things from another person’s view. When Bob Ewell spits on Atticus’ face, instead of retaliating, Atticus simply returns home and simply says, “I wish he would stop chewing tobacco”. This shows his great degree of tolerance. His behavior in this situation also shows his understanding. Atticus “destroyed [Bob’s] last shred of credibility”, and as he understands where Bob Ewell is coming from, he takes it in his stride. Throughout the novel, the theme of values, respect and morals is brought up regularly. Once again, a clear example of this is when Bob Ewell meets Atticus outside the courthouse. Despite being harassed and being called a “nigger lovin’ bastard” and other obscenities by Mr.Ewell, he holds his head up high and does not sink to Bob Ewell’s level. Instead, he lets Bob Ewell take out his anger on himself, in the hope that “[Atticus] saved Mayella Ewell one extra beating”. This shows Atticus’ good values and priorities. At the end of the novel, the relationship between Bob Ewell and Atticus ends with a twist. Atticus is faced to chose between his family and his morals in his decision as to who killed Bob Ewell. When the sheriff, Heck Tate, suggests that someone else may have killed Mr.Ewell, Atticus says that he “won’t have it”, and clearly shows that his morals and values are fair and are held against all people, even his own family. Despite his anger, over “not thinking about Jem”, when finding out what happens, he still sticks to his original statement. He tries to show his children that values are everything, and that if “[my children don’t trust me [(Atticus)], then they won’t trust anybody. The Relationship between Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell is certainly, in my opinion, the heart of “To Kill A Mockingbird”. Although Bob 2001-10-22T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Relationships-in-To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-3893.aspx Maycomb: A balanced Society of the Good and Evil The novel To Kill a Mocking Bird written by Harper Lee is told from the perspective of a six-year-old girl named Scout. The story focuses on the maturation of Scout and her elder brother Jem in the "tired old town" of Maycomb, Alabama, in the 1930's. The story takes place in Maycomb, a classic southern town of that era, a town full of gossip, tradition and burdened with a legacy of racism and prejudice. Jem and Scout live together with their father Atticus and their black cook Calpurnia in the small town of Maycomb. Atticus is a prominent lawyer and the Finch family is reasonably well off in comparison to the rest of society. A major plot in the story is the Boo Radley plot. One summer, Jem (10) and Scout (6) befriend a boy named Dill, who had come to live in Maycomb for the summer, and the trio acts out stories and plays together. Eventually, Dill becomes fascinated with the spooky house on their street called the Radley Place. The house is owned by Mr. Nathan Radley, whose brother, Arthur, nicknamed Boo, has lived there for years without venturing outside. Jem and Scout had always been afraid to go near the house for there were many scary rumors about Boo Radley, such as that he had stabbed his father in the knee and that he eats meat raw. As the story progresses they learn more about Boo and realize he was not at all like the way the rumors made him appear to be and at the end of the story Boo even saved them from the attack by Bob Ewell. Another major plot in the story was the Tom Robinson trial plot. Atticus was appointed to defend a black man named Tom Robinson who had been accused of raping a white girl named Mayella Ewell. Many white people of Maycomb were outraged at his decision to defend Tom and did their best to make life difficult for the Finches. As the trial drew nearer, racial tensions between the blacks and whites mounted, and their schoolmates subjected Jem and Scout to many insults and abuse. Despite Atticus' efforts, Tom was convicted and sent to prison. Atticus was going to appeal to a higher court but Tom tried to escape from prison and was shot to death. Harper Lee presented a more balanced society in Maycomb because she delineated 2001-10-19T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Maycomb-A-balanced-Society-of-the-Good-and-Evil-3869.aspx Speech to the Jury For any speech to be successful, it must persuade its audience. To attain this goal, the speech has to first get the attention of the audience and at all times, maintain those audience’s interest. In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch, in his speech to the jury uses conflicting ideas to arouse and keep the interest of the jurors. By doing so, Atticus tries to sway his audience toward his ultimate intention, proving beyond a reasonable doubt that Tom Robinson is not guilty of attacking Mayella Ewell. As a lawyer defending a black man being accused of rape in the 1930’s, Atticus indicates to his prejudiced audience that he, like everyone else, has “nothing but pity in my heart for the chief witness for the state”. After establishing this rapport with his audience, Atticus firmly tells the jury that “his pity does not extend so far as to her [Mayella’s] putting man’s life at stake, which she has done in an effort to get rid of her own guilt”. Through these two conflicting ideas, Atticus shifts the role of the criminal and the victim by implying that Tom, is also a victim. On the other hand, Atticus does not accuse Mayella of her “guilt”. Instead, he again builds up mutual understanding with his audience that Mayella, too is a victim, “the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance”. Expectantly, this is again later supplemented with a contradiction when Atticus stated, “but I cannot pity her … she struck out at her victim [Tom Robinson] – of necessity she must put him away from her – he must be removed from her presence, from this world. She must destroy the evidence of her offense”. Later in his speech, Atticus Finch mentions a quote of Thomas Jefferson, “all men are created equal.” He tells the jury that in reality, it is not the case, “we know all men are not created equal … some people are smarter than others, some people have more opportunity because they’re born with it…”. Atticus here appeals to the common sense of the juror that Tom Robinson, being a black man is not viewed as an equal. “But there is one way in this country in which all men are created equal”, Atticus goes on to say that in fact, there’s a “human institution” when all men are created equal; it is the “great reveler”, our 2001-10-13T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Speech-to-the-Jury-3838.aspx What Makes Atticus Finch A Hero What is a hero? In the dictionary a hero is described as an object of extreme admiration and devotion, idol. I think this definition should also include that a hero should have courage and put others before themselves. In To Kill A Mockingbird Atticus Finch demonstrated true heroic qualities. He was admirable and devoted, he was brave and put others before himself in a difficult time. Atticus had to overcome many challenges and take many risks. He was a single parent yet he raised his children to be well behaved, polite and open minded. To instill something like that shows what kind of man he is. Taking Tom Robinson’s case and putting so much time and energy in to it really began to make his heroic qualities shine. Atticus treated all people, black or white, with kindness, courtesy and respect. He doesn’t hold grudges against the people of the town. Atticus recognizes the good and bad qualities in people. He tries to look through the bad in a person and find and admire the true goodness of them. Atticus agreeing to defend Tom Robinson in court showed that he believed in fairness and justice for all. During that time black people were considered to be lower class, which caused white people to always suspect blacks before they suspected white people. People in the town begin to call him a “nigger lover” and threaten him and his family. During the trial Atticus makes this statement, “Confident that you gentlemen, would go along with them on one assumption, the evil assumption, that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are immoral beings, that all Negroes are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption that of one mind of their caliber. Which gentlemen, we know is in itself a lie as black as Tom Robinson’s skin, a lie that I don’t have to point out to you. You know the truth. The truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men can’t be trusted around women, black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men.” That statement gave the people of Maycomb something to think about and may have made some of them think twice before judging someone based on the color of their skin. Atticus was one in a million. I don’t know anyone that 2001-09-29T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/What-Makes-Atticus-Finch-A-Hero-3784.aspx To kill a Mockingbird Despite cultures and conflicts, the fundamental bonds remain: We all belong to a common family. The book, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee is a timeless classic about the coming of age of a small southern town and it’s people in the 1930’s. The book follows Jem and Scout, two siblings, who must face the harsh realities of life. Hypocrisy and racism together make the two most important themes of all. (72 words) Hypocrisy is as much a part of Maycomb’s society as church and community spirit. For example, Mrs. Merriweather talks about saving the poor Mruans from Africa, but she thinks black people in her community are a disgrace (p.234). The hypocrisy of this teaching is shown as soon as she mentions the word ‘persecution’. This is due to the fact that she herself is persecuting the black people of Maycomb by not raising an eyebrow at the killing of innocent black men. Furthermore, it is obvious Bob Ewell is abusive to his daughter, Mayella, and that he is the one who violated her, not Tom Robinson (p.178). Since there is such hypocrisy in Maycomb, there are excuses made for whites. The jury probably thinks that if they pronounce Tom innocent the citizens will mock them as they do to Atticus. Harper Lee uses hypocrisy to show how the people of Maycomb are so engulfed in a variety of elements that they unknowingly complete acts of unjustified discrimination. Racism is wrought within the whole story. For example, even though Calpernia is a female, Aunt Alexandra overlooks her good work because of her race (p. 129). Blacks, because they are considered inferior, are expected to do everything for whites. People are so biased it doesn’t matter how well a job a black person does they are still frowned upon. Furthermore, the jury declares Tom Robinson guilty even though the evidence is clearly in his favor (p.211). A human being has more color pigment in their skin so it is assumed they are guilty without question; truth is never a factor. It is easy to associate the mockingbird symbol to Tom Robinson, a harmless man who becomes a victim of racial prejudice. The Maycomb community are trying to make a fool of them selves by believing they are model citizens and good Christians, even though a small number amongst them know that they are wrong to persecute and hate due to color. I 2001-09-17T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-kill-a-Mockingbird-3740.aspx To Kill A Mockingbrird - Prejudice In Harper Lee’s book, To Kill A Mockingbird, she reveals to her audience that prejudice, is a destructive force in any society. During the time that Mockingbird was written, racism was acceptable. Racism is a key theme in her book. Not only those who were black, but also those who affiliated with blacks, were considered inferior. Atticus, a lawyer, who defended blacks in court, was mocked. An example of this is when Mrs. Dubose told the children “Your father’s no better than the niggers and trash he works for”(Lee??). This strong example of how racism would control the lives of many people throughout the early 20th century. The reasons why prejudice is so destructive to a community is each side thinks that they are better than the other side, which means instead of trying to solve the problem at hand they are getting divided by their race, as they have no interest in communicating with the other party. Back in the time period of To Kill A Mockingbird, black people were considered to be lower class, which caused white people to always suspect blacks before they suspected white people. An example of this is when a character named Nathan Radley hears someone in his cabbage patches. He shot his gun in the air and when people asked what happen, he automatically told them it was a ‘nigger’, even though he didn’t see the person. But, he knew the person was white by this quote someone said he said. “Shot in the air. Scared him though, says if anyone sees a white ‘nigger’ running around here that’s him” (Lee 54). Meaning that he knows the person is white. Another example is that some people even put animals above blacks, as told in the rest of the quote. “Got the other barrel waitin’ for the next hears in his patch, be it dog, ‘nigger’, or Jem Finch” (Lee 54). This shows that Mr. Radley didn’t have any respect for blacks. In some parts of the world this is true even to this day. In South Africa since statistically black men commit more crime than any other race it is just in people’s nature to think that a black person has commited the crime. Which is the worst thing that can happen, as black people cannot receive a fair trial. Racial comments have been around since there have been minority groups and they will 2001-06-21T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbrird-Prejudice-3519.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird <center><b>How does Scout and Jem’s perception of Boo Radley change during the novel? How does Boo affect the lives of the Finch household in the novel?</b></center> Boo Radley is the neighborhood mystery. The Radley place fascinated the children, because it was a popular subject of gossip and superstition in Maycomb. Arthur Radley had gotten into trouble with the law when he was a boy. Instead of being sent to the state industrial school, his father took custody of him within their house. He was not seen again for fifteen years. Many legends grew up about the Radley house and about what went on inside. Miss Stephanie Crawford, added to the stories - which included stories of crime, mutilation, curses and insanity. Dill was fascinated by these stories, and gave Scout and Jem the idea of making Boo Radley come out of seclusion. When Dill, always eager for a new adventure, dares Jem to run up to the house and touch the door. Jem thought things over for a few days. Finally, filled with fear, he accepted the dare. He ran up, touched the house, and ran back. As the three children stared at the old house, they thought they saw an inside shutter move. On the last night that Dill was in Maycomb they decided to go to the Radley place to take a peak in one of the windows. When they were there, they saw a shadow of a man pass, they ran and while they were running they were fired upon by a shotgun, Jem got his pants caught in the fence. He took them off and they ran back to the woods. About 10 minutes later the neighborhood was gathered outside the Radley place. The adults asked Jem, Scout, and Dill where they had been, Jem told them they were playing strip poker and that was how he had lost his pants. Later that night Jem made a run for his pants he found them neatly folded and sew on the fence. Scout and Jem start to find things in a tree right outside the Radley house, they find different trinkets such as a watch, a knife, and some figures that look like them. When they were walking by one day, Mr. Radley was putting cement in the tree’s hole, he said it was sick and that it needed to be filled. So that ended the gifts in 2001-05-09T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-3341.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird - courage To Kill a Mockingbird is a book about courage. To what extent do you agree with this? Courage is the quality of mind that enables one to face danger with confidence, resolution, and gain a firm control of oneself. Many of the characters in To Kill a Mockingbird showed courage in their own way. Courage can come in many different forms: physical, mental, emotional and moral. Courage is not the only main theme displayed in To Kill a Mockingbird; prejudice and education are also very important themes exhibited throughout the progression of the novel. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, a bright, sensitive and intelligent little girl, these themes of the novel are explored in great depth. The many forms of courage are shown throughout the novel by the characters of Jem, Boo (Arthur), Mrs. Dubose, and Atticus. Jem showed one of the greatest acts of physical courage as he protected his little sister Scout from the attack of Bob Ewell on the night of Halloween. Boo was also very courageous, he lived many years without human contact. That is a lonely thing to do, and it took mental courage for him to try and reach out to Jem and Scout when his father kept him imprisoned. Emotional courage is shown through Mrs. Dubose; she was a morphine addict and it took great courage for her to quit before her death to ¡°die beholden to nothing and nobody¡±. Atticus is one of the most courageous characters in the novel. He showed moral courage when he defended a black man who was falsely charged with the rape of a white woman. He stood up for his believes despite of what the people of Maycomb thought of him as a ¡°Nigger lover¡± and a disgrace to his family. Prejudice is a strong opinion an individual may possess for or against someone without knowing all the facts about them. It can be passed down from generation to generation. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird there are numerous accounts of racism and prejudice. The novel is set in the 1930's, a time when racism was very prevalent. Although bigotry and segregation were pointed in majority towards blacks, other accounts towards whites were also heard of, though not as commonly. Anyone that is out of the ordinary from society is treated differently because of their dissimilarities. The most obvious example in the novel would be Tom Robinson. 2001-04-29T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-courage-3274.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird In the widely known novel To Kill A Mockingbird there are two families that are very diverse and are text book examples of complete opposites on the moral ladder of success. The Cunninghams and the Ewells have two very distinct and opposite reputations. The Cunninghams which are very respected while the Ewells very much despised. The Ewells are given the privilege to hunt out of season, so that the residents of the small town of Maycomb would not have to tolerate their continuous begging twenty-four hours a day for seven days a week. These two families show the respectability of hard workers or, in the Ewells case, can fill their peers with sorrow. The Cunninghams have pride, as for the Ewells, they have a natural like anarchist nature that will eventually haunt them and hurt others because of their lurid like attitude. The Cunningham's are very respected by the citizen's of Maycomb county. The Cunninghams took nothing, unless they could pay it back. Walter the youngest in the Cunningham clan was in the same class at school as Scout Finch the daughter of Atticus Finch. While in school, a fresh young new school teacher known as Miss Caroline did not know the reputations of the predecessors of these two children. In what looked like a good day for the rookie teacher quickly turned into complete disarray and a total adversity trip for the teacher. Walter Cunningham being raised in a very hard working environment was taught not to take what he could not pay back. The teacher obviously did not know about his background in the most minute way and embarrassed him extensively by almost demanding him to take some lunch money. Knowing that he could not pay Miss Caroline back in the way that she had in mind he knew that he could take the money which he wanted to take so bad. Walter eventually ended up eating with the Finch's. While eating at the Finch's he did not know what to do with all of the food that they have offered to him. For example he drowned his waffles in a lake of syrup. Bob Ewell's son, Burris was also faced in the same way but in an total opposite direction and purpose. The same day as the Walter Cunningham incident there was another incident concerning the Ewells. Burris had "cooties." A "cootie" came frantically flying out of the 2001-04-21T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-3237.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird - Style The stylistic elements that an author chooses are instrumental in ensuring that the theme or tone that he or she wishes to convey is in fact conveyed to the reader. Harper Lee obviously realizes this, for in the novel To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee, To Kill A Mockingbird, [New York: Warner, 1982] 278) she wisely selects a distinctive style to relate the moving story of a young child discovering harsh truths regarding human nature The predominant stylistic element Miss Lee uses is her diction and choice of sentence length. At the beginning of the selection, the sentences are short and simple. This syntax is especially appropriate, due to the fact that the novel is written in first person, the narrator being a six year old girl named Scout. “I never saw him again,”she says, referring to her mysteriously reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley. “We never put back into the tree what we had taken out of it: we had given him nothing, and it made me sad.” Here, Lee takes on the persona of a child by using a short, simple sentence structure— no excessiveness or educated glibness, just the purity and honesty of a child’s prate. As the piece progresses, Lee’s writing style begins to transform. It becomes more educated and mature. “I had never seen our neighborhood from this angle,” Scout says, creating not only a transition in how Scout sees her world, but also a transition in the syntax. While the sentences remain short, the diction Miss Lee chooses is more advanced, as Scout recaps what she has seen in her lifetime – no longer through the eyes of a child. “The boy helped is sister to her feet, and they made their way home. Fall, and his children trotted to and fro around the corner, the day’s woes ans triumphs on their faces. They stopped at an oak tree, delighted, puzzled, apprehensive.” Once again, Lee’s syntax is very suitable in the message she is trying to impart. Scout’s exposure to the strange and startling realities of the human soul take away her youthful innocence. Thus, she begins to, as all people must do, mature. Another stylistic element that greatly aids in progressing the theme and tone of the novel is Lee’s implementation of imagery. She begins with Scout on the porch of a house she had once thought to be haunted. “Street lights winked down the street 2001-04-04T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-Style-3127.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the Mockingbird was used to symbolize those characters who were senselessly harmed by others yet harmless themsleves. In this novel, certain individuals were singled out by society 2001-03-26T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-3086.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the story unfolds through the eyes of a six-year-old girl named Scout. The story takes place in the small southern town of Maycomb, Alabama during the early 1900s where prejudice was at its peak. Miss Harper Lee has chosen Scout as the narrator in this story. This narrative technique has many strengths and some weakness. Scout is a bright, sensitive and intelligent little girl. For all her intelligence, she is still a child and not always fully understands the implications of the events she reports. This is sometimes amusing, like the time she thinks Miss Maudie’s loud voice scares Miss Stephanie. Scout does her best to inform us of the happenings at the Tom Robinson trial. Yet, she is not certain what rape is, or aware of the prejudice surrounding her. Ultimately she represents the innocence within society. This story has a variety of themes and lessons including maturity (the story shows Jem and Scout going through many life lessons and how they’ve grown from it), prejudice (like in the Tom Robinson case in this small community), and courage (it takes courage for anyone to stand up to the events that go on in this book. Throughout the story the reader see how Scout and Jem are afraid of Arthur “Boo” Radley because they think he is a monster and try to tease him. They try to play tricks on Boo. Later in the novel they are no longer afraid of him and are no longer interested in teasing him. Jem and Scout had believed that their father was not like any other fathers in school. They see him as an old man who cannot do anything. However, when a dog appears on the street, Atticus, their father, kills that dog with one shot. They are surprised to learn that he is the best shot in the town. They’re attitude towards their father changes. This is a sign of maturity. “ The rifle cracked. Tin Johnson leaped, flopped over and crumpled on the sidewalk in a brown-and-white heap. He didn’t know what hit him.”(96) Jem became vaguely articulate, “you see him, Scout? You see him just stand there? All of a sudden he just relaxed all over. It looked like that gun was a part of him… and he did it so quick, like… I hafta aim from ten minutes fore 2001-03-24T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-3074.aspx Prejudice In The Time Of To Kill A Mockingbird Three students kicked out of a high school for threatening to bring a gun to school. Why would they? Because people were prejudice against them because other students thought they were “losers”. Moral: You shouldn’t not like a person because they aren’t like you. Prejudice was far much worse in the time period of To Kill A Mockingbird. But, Prejudice is the reason for much social injustice. Three characters named Nathan Radley, Atticus Finch, and Aunt Alexandria show us this in the novel, To Kill A Mockingbird. Back in the time period of To Kill A Mockingbird, blacks were referred to as “niggers”, and blamed for most things, even when they were innocent. An example of this is when a character named Nathan Radley hears someone in his cabbage patches. He shot his gun in the air and when people asked what happen, he automatically told them it was a “nigger”. Even though he didn’t see the person. But, he knew the person was white by this quote someone said he said. “Shot in the air. Scared him though, says if anyone sees a white “nigger” running around here that’s him” (54). Meaning that he knows the person is white. Another thing is that some people even put animals above blacks, as told in the rest of the quote. “Got the other barrel waitin’ for the next hears in his patch, be it dog, “nigger”, or Jem Finch (a character) (54). Now he must have known it was Jem, or why would he have said his name? This shows that Mr. Radley didn’t have any respect for blacks. Not only were blacks referred to as “niggers” but, anyone associated with them, except for slave masters, were called, “nigger” lovers. An example of this is that a character named Atticus Finch is defending a black person named Tom Robinson in court. Because he is doing this, most people in town are calling him a “nigger” lover. Not only are the adults saying it, but their children are saying it too. Since Atticus is defending this man, he has also tried to been jumped many time also. But Atticus makes a very interesting point during the court case. “The witnesses for the state have presented themselves to you gentlemen, to this court, in the cynical confidence that their testimony would not be doubted. Confident that you gentlemen, would go along with them on 2001-03-22T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Prejudice-In-The-Time-Of-To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-3067.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird <center><b>Proposals: To examine the character of Atticus Finch as a hero in Harper Lees’ “To Kill a Mockingbird.</b></center> “To kill a Mockingbird”, an acclaimed novel, by Harper Lee is recognised throughout the world. Having read her novel, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1960 soon after its publication, I was compelled to consider the novel in greater depth but was particularly intrigued to examine the character of Atticus Finch as a hero. Maycomb, a fictional town in the Southern States of America plays host to the novel during the period of 1933-1935. “To Kill a Mockingbird” follows a lawyer and his family prior to and during a legal case to defend a black male, Tom Robinson, charged of raping a white female, Mayella Ewell. This occurs in a very white orientated town. Atticus Finch, Attorney and father of two children only plays a brief part in the opening chapter but as this epic novel progresses so does his importance. It becomes apparent that Atticus Finch, arguably the novel’s main character, is extremely well respected in Maycomb by the majority of its residents. If someone expresses a dislike towards him he will still try to do his “best to love everybody”. Atticus is a man of extreme integrity and some say that it is through his mouth that Harper Lee expresses her own morality, an opinion that I share. He represents a true gentleman; his conduct is always courteous despite any provocation whether privately or publicly. This is enhanced by the very carefully selected word choice. Atticus is able to use language stylishly when appropriate but he can also communicate very simplistically such as when in a moment of crisis he can talk straightforwardly, for example to Jem and Scout, to enhance understanding. Atticus is a devoted family man; he manages to care for his children without the help of their mother, who died. Harper Lee gives Atticus a very “modern style” regarding parenting (in comparison to other families in the 1930’s i.e. principally he was a single parent). This could perhaps be a reflection on Atticus’s opinion that everyone has the right to be an individual and because of this we should not be judged. He is one person in a select few who feel that coloured people should be able to have the same standard of living as their white counterparts. Atticus is open to all opinions and will accept each individual for 2001-03-13T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-3034.aspx How the ending of the novel manages to end or resolve the novel's key themes “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a classic novel that deals with two “mockingbirds” in Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. “They don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird,” says Atticus. Despite the stigma involved with such an action, Maycomb physically and socially kill two Mockingbirds. This theme and many more are resolved in the book’s ending. One of the first key themes dealt with in the ending of novel is that of the first mockingbird, Boo Radley. Throughout the novel Scout, Jem and Dill are preoccupied with one of Maycomb’s “monsters”, Boo Radley. Finally, Scout has the chance to meet him, after “He gave…. [Scout and Jem] [Their] lives. Scout, through standing on the Radley porch and “Standing in [Boo’s] shoes and walking around in them”, finally understands Boo Radley. Furthermore, when Scout says, “he was real nice”, Atticus replies back “most people are, Scout, when you finally see them”, thus resolving the readers and Scout’s doubts about Boo Radley. With the description of his hair as "feathery," Boo is immediately identified with the "mockingbird" idea, especially with his slight appearance and fluttery hand movements. He has finally become a real person, completing the progression from monster to human; meanwhile, Mr. Ewell's evilness has turned him into a human monster, whose bristling facial stubble felt by Scout suggests an animal-like appearance. Another key theme that is dealt with in depth, is that of the second mockingbird, Tom Robinson, the Negro who is killed trying to escape from jail after he is wrongfully accused and convicted for rape while helping a young woman. At the end of the book, the two mockingbirds collide, as Boo kills Bob Ewell, the young girl’s “white trash” father, in a scuffle between Bob and the Finch children. As Heck Tate says “ There’s a black boy dead for no reason, and the man responsible for it’s dead. Let the dead bury the dead this time…”. During the course of this book, Harper Lee tries to show us people’s reactions when they have to choose between their prejudices and what is right. Tom Robinson is the recipient of unfair racial prejudice, as he finds out how a man’s false beliefs can override his better judgement. Boo Radley is also the victim of social prejudice. Just because he stays inside, people automatically 2001-02-25T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/How-the-ending-of-the-novel-manages-to-end-or-resolve-the-novel-s-key-themes-2923.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird - how to change your peers opinon on racism If this information makes you feel uncomfortable do not further research it. It can cause mental disturbance if you are not ready for it. I know it may seem cool but I am being serious. Today I am going to compare racism in TKAMB between racism in real life situations. The main topics that I have chosen are racism in the form of bullying and racism as in the form of discrimination. In the book there are many more forms of racism as bullying than I thought there would be. They are common like when people say Nigger talk they mean talking without making sense or talking with out proper wording. There are everyday issues like while building a snowman partly out of mud Scout says as a joke ”Jem I ain’t ever heard of a Nigger snowman.” Here they find paying out Negroes funny. The kids in the book tease scout and Jem because they have an annoying nature. As when Cecil Jacobs announces that Scout Finch’s daddy defends niggers and when Francis calls Scout a “Nigger lover” These terms although are nearly said in the way that saying Nigger lover is just like saying snot-nosed. While in real life bullying occurs because of many reason which can be that It makes bullies feel powerful, Because they want to impress others, Because they have an unrelated prejudice against the victim, the bully simply doesn’t know how offensive they are being, Because others have influenced them to do so, Because they have been taught this way, Because they find it a matter of amusement, Because they are forced to do so to fit in, Because they haven’t thought about what they are saying and have no previous thoughts before they open their mouths, Or they do so to get even with the bully who bullied them. Racism As in discrimination and extreme hatred In TKAMB there are many instances where the black Negroes are discriminated against or the Negroes discriminate against the white people. Situations, which occur in this book also, occur in real life. Many where racism is a tool of discrimination, situations like excluding people from social groups or from communities or not giving them equal rights. Situations in TKAMB are seen in the following instances. Where cal wants to take the children to the black church people try to oppose her. Being around Negroes is derogatory to your reputation and a punishment this is shown 2001-02-11T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-how-to-change-your-peers-opinon-on-racism-2862.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird - Scout's Maturity As people grow in life, they mature and change. In the novel , To Kill a Mockingbird ,by Harper Lee, Scout, the main character, matures as the book continues. Slowly but surely, Scout learns to control her explosive temper, to refrain from fistfights, and to respect Calpurnia, their maid, and to really learn her value to the family. Scout simply changes because she matures, and she also changes because Atticus, her father, asks her to. In the early chapters of the book, Scout picks fights at the slightest provocation. One example of this is when Scout beats up Walter Cunningham, one of her classmates, for “not having his lunch”, which isn’t a very good reason at all. “Catching Walter Cunningham in the schoolyard gave me some pleasure, but when I was rubbing his nose in the dirt Jem came by and told me to stop. ‘You’re bigger’n he is,’ he said … ‘He made me start off on the wrong foot.’ … ‘Let him go Scout. Why?’ ‘He didn’t have any lunch,’ I said, and explained my involvement in Walter’s dietary affairs” (27). Scout is also very mischievous and has a devious mentality towards Calpurnia. She describes Calpurnia as a tyrannical presence, and she does everything she can to get her out of the house. One time Scout does this is when Walter comes over to her house to eat dinner. Scout criticizes Walter for drowning his food in molasses, and Calpurnia scolds Scout. After Walter leaves, Scout asks Atticus to fire Calpurnia, which of course he doesn’t do. “Jem said suddenly grinned at him. ‘Come on home to dinner with us, Walter,’ he said. … Walter stood where he was, biting his lip. Jem and I gave up, and we were nearly to the Radley Place when Walter called, ‘Hey, I’m comin’!’ While Walter piled food on his plate, he and Atticus talked together like to men, to the wonderment of Jem and me. Atticus was expounding on farm problems when Walter interrupted to ask if there was any molasses in the house… Walter poured syrup on his vegetables and meat with a generous hand. He would probably have poured it into his milk glass had I not asked what the sam hill he was doing… It was then that Calpurnia quested my presence in the kitchen… She was furious, and when she was furious Calpurnia’s grammar became erratic… “There’s 2001-02-06T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-Scout-s-Maturity-2835.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird During the story To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Jem and Scout changed there judgment about many people such as Boo Radley and Atticus Finch. Both Scout and Jem’s judgments of these two people were negative, but they learned more about there personalities and there ideas about them changed. Jem and Scout first thought that Boo Radley was a creepy, scary, hermit who killed people’s pets and would hurt people as well. They changed there minds about Boo when Jem got his pants caught on a fence while trying to sneak a peak of Boo. To Jem’s astonishment when he returned to retrieve his pants they had been sewed up and gingerly placed back on the fence. This example changed there feelings towards Boo cause they realized that he was really friendly and king. Boo was the first person that Jem 2000-12-30T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-2716.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird The book, To Kill A Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, is a timeless classic about the coming of age of a small southern town and it’s people. The book follows Jem and Scout, two siblings living in the 1930’s in a small southern town. Their father, Atticus, is a lawyer who is hired to defend a black man who is accused of rape. The children watch the town and the trial change and grow. Atticus loses the trial and Tom Robinson, the man who is being accused of rape gets killed by prison guards. The whole town is in an uproar. Some people are furious, some are pleased, and others see it as no big deal. But for Jem and Scout it is a time for them to grow up and face the harsh realities of life. The three main themes in To Kill A Mockingbird are “racism”, “hypocrisy”, and “the world of adults”. The main theme in To Kill A Mockingbird is “racism”. Maycomb has both a black and white community. Both sides have racial views against the other. When Jem and Scout go to the black church a woman comes out and says, “You Ain’t got no business bringin’ white chillun here – they got their church, we out ours.” (Pg. 119) Both communities are hostile towards each other. When a black man is accused of a crime he didn’t commit, he is still found guilty because of his skin color. It is stated in the book, “In our courts, when its white man’s word against a black man’s, the white always wins. They’re ugly, but those are the facts of life.” (Pg. 220) However not all of the white people agree with this. Most of them think that Tom Robinson is guilty just because of the color of his skin. The second main theme in To Kill A Mockingbird is “hypocrisy”. Mrs. Merriweather talks about saving the poor Mrunas from Africa, but she thinks the black people in her community are a disgrace. She states, “At least we have the deceit to say to ‘em yes you’re as good as we are but stay away from us. Down here we just say you live your way and we’ll live ours.” (Pg. 234) But for the Mrunas she says, “I made a pledge in my heart. I said to myself, when I go home I’m going to give a course on 2000-12-10T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-2663.aspx Maturation Of Scout In Harper Lee’s novel, “To Kill A Mocking Bird” we see that maturation of some of the characters is clearly evident, particularly Scouts. We see this by the way she acts in front of Miss Maudie, Calpurnia and Mrs. Alexandra Finch. Beside her father, Scout probably respects and likes the most is Miss Maudie. The two of them have a great relationship and they both love each other very deeply. When Scout first introduces us to Miss Maudie (in chapter 5), she tells us all the nicest things about her. She talks about how much she and Jem trusted Miss Maudie and what a good friend she was. They trusted her because "she never told on them, never played cat-and-mouse with them, and because she was not at all interested in their private lives", (chp. 5, pg. 44-45) unlike most Maycomb people. This is also why Scout respected Miss Maudie so much and why she told her, "Miss Maudie, you are the best lady I know" (pg.45). Miss Maudie always made cakes for Scout, Jem and Dill, and she invited them over to eat them and also to play in her backyard. One summer, Scout spent the whole second half of the summer with Miss Maudie. They sat in the front porch, watched the sunset, talked, took care of Miss Maudie's garden. That's when Scout became very close to Miss Maudie. Basically, Scout admired Miss Maudie. She was her hero. Calpurnia is a very important character in the novel. Scout has known her her whole life and has basically lived with her, but they weren't that close. Scout never liked Calpurnia very much, mostly because she always complained about her behavior. "She was always ordering her out of the kitchen, asking her why she couldn't behave as well as Jem when she knew he was older, and calling her home when she wasn't ready to come. There talking was like battling and one-sided. Calpurina always won, mainly because Atticus always took her side." (pg. 6). Another reason why Scout didn't like Calpurnia is because she made her practice writing. Then, when Scout's teacher in grade one found out that Scout can read and when Scout got in trouble for that, she blamed Calpurnia. At that time, she was too young to understand that Calpurnia only tried to help her and teach her so she would be literate and know more 2000-10-30T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Maturation-Of-Scout-2423.aspx The Influences Parents have on thier Children Throughout our lives we're influenced and taught by many. It can have an effect on the way we view problems and events within public boundaries. One of the most important and most effective influences children have in their lives occurs from their parents. The parents of a child can have both a positive and a negative influence on their lives. In this novel there are two very good examples of how parents can be an important influence on their children. Father of Jem and Scout Finch, Atticus Finch, plays the loving, caring and intelligent single parent, he is struggling to keep his family together. He is an example of how parents can have a positive influence on their children. Bob Ewell, father of Mayella Ewell, is the drunken, abusive, and careless father, Bob is also a single parent. He is an example of how a parent can be a negative influence on their children's lives. Both fathers are very influential on the mental growth of their children. Parents can influence how their children behave, feel, and act towards the outside world. If a child is brought up with hatred, anger and even violence, they can learn to view the world in a highly negative way, by being dangerous and prejudice towards others. However if a child is brought up with caring and nourishment, they can learn to see the world from all different points of views and angles. Atticus raises his children with love and care, and teaches them to consider all angles of a situation before they judge someone; "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view"... "Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" (Lee, pg. 30). Using this belief Atticus tries to teach Jem and Scout on moral values. Bob Ewell however, neglects his children and turns his back on them leaving out love and care from their lives.. He basically teaches his children to hate and be picky towards people of colour. Bob Ewell is cross-examined in the courtroom, and is asked several questions. When he is asked if he is the father of Mayella Ewell, he replies, "Well, if I ain't I can't do nothing about it now, her ma's dead" (Lee, pg.172). This is one example of how Bob Ewell does not display emotion towards his children and their well-being. Many important characteristics of 2000-10-29T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/The-Influences-Parents-have-on-thier-Children-2424.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird: The Influences Parents have on thier Children Throughout our lives we're influenced by many. It can have an effect on the way we view issues within societal boundaries. One of the major influences children have in their lives comes from their parents. The parents of a child can have both a positive and a negative influence on their lives. In the novel "To Kill A Mockingbird", there are two excellent examples of how parents can be a major influence on their children. Atticus Finch, father of Jem and Scout Finch, plays the loving, kind and knowledgeable father. He is an example of how parents can have a positive influence on their children. Bob Ewell, father of Mayella Ewell, plays the drunken, abusive, and neglectful father. He is an example of how a parent can be a negative influence on their children's lives. Both fathers are very influential on the psychological development of their children. Parents can influence how their children behave, feel, and act towards the outside world. If a child is brought up with hatred and anger, they can learn to view the world in a very negative way, by being critical and prejudice towards other people. However if a child is brought up with caring and nourishment, they can learn to see the world from all different angles. Atticus Finch raises his children with love and care, and teaches them to consider all angles of a situation before you judge someone; "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view"... "Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" (Lee, pg. 34). Using this belief Atticus is trying to educate Jem and Scout on principles of moral judgment. Bob Ewell however, neglects his children and fails to provide his children with much needed love and care. He indirectly teaches his children to hate and be critical towards people of colour. In chapter 17, Bob Ewell is cross-examined in the courtroom, and is asked several questions. When he is asked if he is the father of Mayella Ewell, he replies, "Well, if I ain't I can't do nothing about it now, her ma's dead" (Lee, pg.174). This is one example of how Bob Ewell does not display emotion towards his children and their well-being. Many important characteristics of one's personality can be passed down to their children. A child can learn to be courageous from examples that are set by 2000-07-23T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-The-Influences-Parents-have-on-thier-Children-2164.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird: Similarities in Tom and Boo's lives Certain uncanny resemblances between Tom Robinson and Boo Radley's lives exist in Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird. Often large groups of people misunderstand certain unusual individuals. Sometimes they stereotype the person; other times, they simply do not bother to find out the truth. When such circumstances occur, the ostracized person's actions become unfairly misinterpreted or not understood at all. Sometimes rumors circulate about the individuals, that might then be assumed as the truth. In this novel, Tom and Boo are both outsiders to the white, normal society of Maycomb county. Tom and Boo share generous natures that are misunderstood; they hold little social value, and are generally assumed guilty. The first parallel in the lives of Tom and Boo, focuses on their property. Tom lives in the "nigger nest" (pg. 175) near to Mr. Ewell but outside the city limits. While testifying Mr. Ewell says, "I've asked this county for fifteen years to clean out that nest down yonder, they're dangerous to live around 'sides devaluin' my property (pg. 175)". A person's status often relates to his property, and the interpretation of that property's value is often based on the tenants of the land. In Maycomb county, the black community inhabits the least desirable property. In the Jim Crow era, blacks were stereotyped as violent and unclean; therefore, the property they owned was considered unvaluable and was located in the worst part of the county territory. On the other hand, the people in the "best" part of town are always white and upper class members of society. Mr. Ewell lives directly next to the town dump, yet he considers the blacks that he lives near a larger threat to his land's value than the appearance and stench of the city's trash. Most people in the better parts of town might even agree with him because they assume that the black people are a constant menace to white society, and being near them endangers one's life. The Radley property also threatens the lives of people brave enough to venture near it. The children believe that anything that comes from the Radley's soil is poisoned, including the nuts and fruits on the trees. Jem yells at Scout once saying about the Radley property: "Don't you know you're not supposed to even touch the house over there? You'll get killed if you do" (pg. 33). Jem also goes so far as to 2000-05-21T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-Similarities-in-Tom-and-Boo-s-lives-1986.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird - Who Is The Most Guilty Who is the most guilty? Review the involvement’s of the characters in the novel and evaluate weather or not they were guilty, and if so how guilty? In the classic novel ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee there is an abundance of characters that could be proclaimed to be the guilty party, but who is truly the guiltiest one of all? The definition of guilt is as follows; the state of having done something wrong or committed an offense; a feeling of self-reproach from believing that one has done something wrong. My job is to examine the characters closely and determine who is the most guilty in the involvement’s of Tom Robinson’s prosecution, conviction and ultimately his death. As I stated, there is an abundance of characters that could be guilty, from Mayella and Bob Ewell, Heck Tate, to the jurors and Atticus Finch. All of these characters play a roll in the story, and a roll in the events that happened to Tom Robinson. The story is an interesting one, but guilty parties are found throughout. The story is set against the background of nineteen thirties Southern life. The Finches are a family that once ran a large, successful plantation. Their ancestors had been aristocratic ladies and gentlemen of the south. Now they are reduced to gentle poverty. Atticus and his family live in a town named Maycomb, he is a career layer. He has a son named Jeremy and a daughter named Jean-Louse. They also have a cook named Calpernia, she is a Negro but they respect her greatly. Racism in Maycomb is evident almost where ever you look, and Negro peoples don’t have a chance to succeed. A family that played a huge roll in the novel are named the Ewells. They live on the out skirts of town by the dump, near the Negro dwellings. The family consists of Bob, whom has a daughter named Mayella and several other siblings. In the context of the book, they are seen as no better than the Negro’s. There is a sheriff named Heck Tate, he is the one and only police officer in the small town, and a judge named Taylor, who in the end hands down Tom’s punishment. To Kill A Mockingbird deals with many primal and basic lessons in human nature. The book expresses many issues that affect people throughout there lives. The novel deals with what you feel inside, 2000-05-16T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-Who-Is-The-Most-Guilty-1962.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird: Innocence While examining the term, "the end of innocence", Scout’s viewpoint on Boo throughout the novel can be an indication of Scout’s own "end of innocence." Scout opens the novel with a naive viewpoint on both the world and Boo Radley. At the start of the novel, Scout interprets a raiding on the jail, through an adolescent standpoint. Scout sees the circumstances of the attack from the perspective of a young child. Scout’s responses to situations, such as the one at the jail, attributes to the fact that she is young, and has few life experiences under her belt. Scout plays ludicrous games with Boo and her detachment towards reality shows the immense childishness she possesses. Boo Radley is a fictional person to Scout and her friends. Scout treats Boo like a figment of her imagination, which signifies her naïveté. Scout starts the novel with a false association between fantasy and reality. Scout’s maturation commences when she views the injustice of Maycomb’s court system. After a jury fails to set Tom Robinson free, Scout fully understands the mechanics of prejudice when she declares, "Tom was a dead man the minute Mayella Ewell opened her mouth and screamed." Scout has never met more trouble than the trouble that occurs between children‘s own social circles. After Tom Robinson is convicted, she fully comprehends racial prejudice, and begins to understand the entire situation. Following the trail, she says, "The Radley place ceased to terrify me." Initially, she sees the Radley place as something that is horrifying. Scout seems to have a better understanding of why Boo never comes out and becomes mature about the subject. Scout finally begins to go through the changing process when she witnesses the horrors of the Tom Robinson trial. At the end of the novel, Scout demonstrates her maturity when she finally is able to distinguish Boo Radely the game, from Boo Radley the man. Scout fantasizes about seeing Boo, and meeting him in the street, to offer comfort and solace. Near the end of the novel, Scout tends to think of Boo in a different way. Scout finally recognizes Boo as a person and she makes connections that she wasn‘t previously able to do. When Scout finally meets Boo, she greets him in a very nonchalant way and the greeting demonstrates the knowledge she acquires during the course of the novel. The way Scout greets Mr. Radley encapsulates everything 2000-05-14T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-Innocence-1952.aspx Scottsboro Trials and To Kill a Mockingbird The Scottsboro Trial and the trial of Tom Robinson are almost identical in the forms of bias shown and the accusers that were persecuted. The bias is obvious and is shown throughout both cases, which took place in the same time period. Common parallels are seen through the time period that both trials have taken place in and those who were persecuted and why they were persecuted in the first place. The thought of "All blacks were liars, and all blacks are wrongdoers," was a major part of all of these trails. A white person's word was automatically the truth when it was held up to the credibility of someone whom was black. Both trials were perfect examples of how the people of Alabama were above the law and could do whatever they wanted to the black people and get away with it. In both trials lynch mobs were formed to threaten the black people who were accused. Judge Hornton tried many times to move the case to a different place so that a fair trial could take place and not be interrupted by the racist people. Finally was granted to move the case even though the lynch mobs threatened to kill everyone who was involved in the case if it were to be moved. In this essay the bias and racism in both trials are going to be clarified and compared to each other. Several groups of white and black men rode the trains in the thirties for transportation. One night a group of white men started a fight with the black men in the train, which led to them getting kicked off. Later on in the case it is proved that the white men start the fight because both of the men have different stories and one of them admits to starting it all. After the white men were kicked off of the train it was ridden to the next stop somewhere in Alabama. Upon arriving at the station the black men and the white women were arrested for vagrancy. While talking to the police the women accused all of the black men of raping them. These women were known prostitutes of the area but their word was still taken over the black men who were accused. Twelve days later the trial took place. There were many witnesses that held bias towards the black men. One acquaintance of the 2000-04-15T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/Scottsboro-Trials-and-To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-1858.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird To Kill a Mockingbird was written by Harper Lee and was published in 1960. To Kill a Mockingbird won many awards, they are; Pulitzer Prize, 1961, Alabama Library Association award, 1961, Brotherhood Award of National Conference of Christians and Jews, 1961, Bestsellers’ paperback of the year award, 1962. Harper Lee was born on the 28th day of April in 1926 in southwest, in a small town called Monroeville. Harper Lee went to Huntingdon College from 1944-45, from 1945-49 she studied law at the University of Alabama, and attended one year at Oxford University. In the 1950’s she worked as a reservation clerk with BOAC in New York City and with Eastern Air Lines. In June 1966, President Johnson named Harper Lee to the National Council of Arts. To Kill a Mockingbird takes place in Maycomb Alabama, in the late 1930’s early 1940’s, because Jean Louise (Scout) and Atticus were reading in the newspaper how Hitler was killing the Jews (Hitler was in power between the early 1930’s to the mid 1940’s). “Maycomb was an old town, but it was a tired old town when I first knew it. In rainy weather the streets turned to red slop, grass grew on the sidewalks, the courthouse sagged in the square. Somehow it was hotter than: a black dog suffered on a summers day. . .” (p5). In this story a lot of characters were introduced to the reader. Jem Finch played a big role in this book. “When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm broken at the elbow. . . His left arm was slightly shorter than his right; when he stood or walked, the back of his hand was at right angles to his body, his thumb parallel to his thigh.” (p3). “His hair stuck up behind and down in the front, and I wondered if it would ever look like a man’s. . . His eyebrows were becoming heavier and I noticed a new slimness about his body. He was growing taller.” (p225). Both of these quotes say that he is a growing teenager and his arm was a little strange. “He raced across the street, disappeared into Miss Maudie’s backyard and returned triumphant. He stuck her sunhat on the snowman’s head and jammed her hedge clippers into the crook of his arm.” (p67-68). “Jem ran into the backyard, produced the garden hoe and began digging quickly behind 2000-04-02T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-1831.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird: Racism In Harper Lee’s book, To Kill A Mockingbird, there are many examples of racism. During this time in history racism was acceptable. Racism is a key theme in her book. Not only those who were black, but also those who affiliated with blacks, were considered inferior. Atticus, a lawyer, who defended blacks in court, was mocked. An example of this is when Mrs. Dubose said, “Your father’s [Atticus] no better than the niggers and trash he works for!” Mr. Dolphus Raymond was also criticized for affiliating with blacks, especially black females. Example is when Jem said, “He likes ‘em [blacks] better ‘n he likes us [whites], I reckon.” Basically, you were black if you “liked” blacks. Blacks, because they were considered inferior, were expected to do everything for whites. Everything had to be perfect, without excuse. Even when Calpurnia, a Finch family friend, did not make the perfect cup of coffee, she was mocked. Book excerpt, “She [Calpurnia] poured one tablespoon of coffee into it and filled the cup to the brim with milk. I [Scout] thanked her by sticking out my tongue...”. Even when blacks did do good, they were still mocked. An example is when Aunt Alexandra said, “Jem’s growing up now and you are too. We decided that it would be best for you to have some feminine influence.” Even though Calpurnia was a female, Aunt Alexandra over-looked this, because of her race. People were so biased, it didn’t matter how good a job a black person did. Since there was such strong racism in Maycomb, there were excuses made for whites. In the book, it was obvious that Bob Ewell was a mean man. It was also obvious that he was abusive to his daughter, Mayella, and he was the one who violated her, not Tom Robinson, because what the evidence showed. But, the people of Maycomb over-looked the evidence in favor of Tom Robinson, just because he was black. In Harper Lee’s book, To Kill A Mockingbird, there are many examples of racism. The legal barriers to racial equality have been torn down, and racial exclusion from the benefits of society and the rights of citizenship is no longer nearly total, as it once was. But discrimination still limits the opportunities and stifles the hopes of many black Americans and other minorities. In the realms of housing, employment, medical care, education and the administration of the criminal justice 2000-03-19T13:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-Racism-1773.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird: Irony and Sarcasm Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird is a highly regarded work of American fiction. The story of the novel teaches us many lessons that should last any reader for a lifetime. The messages that Harper Lee relays to the reader are exemplified throughout the book using various methods. One of the most important and significant methods was the use of symbols such as the mockingbird image. Another important method was showing the view through a growing child's (Scout Finch) mind, eyes, ears, and mouth. There is another very significant method that was used. In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee utilizes the effects of irony, sarcasm, and hypocrisy to criticize a variety of elements in Southern life. Harper Lee employs the effects of irony in To Kill a Mockingbird as a way to criticize the deficiency of public education. "Now tell your father not to teach you any more. It's best to begin reading with a fresh mind." (pG. 22) Instead of praising Scout's ability to read at an advanced level, Miss Caroline discourages it. This ironic example set by Miss Caroline seems to demonstrate the inadequate training that she had received for her occupation. Miss Caroline seems to have been instructed upon a strict standard on how her students are expected to behave, but when she encounters something different, such as Scout's advanced ability to read, she advises Scout to stop being advanced, whereas a modern-day schoolteacher would capitalize on Scout's ability to read and encourage her to read more. "You won't learn to write until you're in the third grade." (pg. 23) The strict, recipe-style, rubric method of teaching that Miss Caroline uses is once again emphasized here. Miss Caroline once again discourages Scout's advanced abilities and regards Scout's ability with contempt. "The Dewey Decimal System consisted, in part, of Miss Caroline waving cards at us which were printed 'the,' 'cat,' 'rat,' 'man,' and 'you.'" (pg. 23) The Dewey Teaching Method was supposed to place an emphasis on "active" learning, yet the irony in Miss Caroline's "use" of it was that her teaching method wasn't "active" at all. It was, in fact, extremely passive. The students in the class didn't do anything. They became extremely bored and learned very little. As I have established, the use of irony clearly reveals the deficiency of the public education system in the 1930's. Teachers did not seem to be trained 1999-12-12T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-Irony-and-Sarcasm-1447.aspx To Kill A Mockingbird Scout's relationships with the adults she's sorrounded by all differ in different ways. Whether those relationships are positive or negative, depends on how long Scout has known them, what kind of people those adults are, and their background. Beside her father, the adult that Scout probably respects and likes the most is Miss Maudie. The two of them have a beautiful relationship and they both love each other very dearly. When Scout first introduces us to Miss Maudie (in chapter 5), she tells us all the nicest things about her. She talks about how much she and Jem trusted Miss Maudie and what a good friend she was. They trusted her because "she never told on them, never played cat-and-mouse with them, and because she was not at all interested in their private lives", (chp. 5, pg. 44-45) unlike most Maycomb residents. This is also why Scout respected Miss Maudie so much and why she told her: "Miss Maudie, you are the best lady I know" (pg.45). Miss Maudie always made cakes for Scout, Jem and Dill, and she invited them over to eat them and also to play in her backyard. One summer, Scout spent the whole second half of the summer with Miss Maudie. They sat in the front porch, watched the sunset, talked, took care of Miss Maudie's garden... That's when Scout became very close to Miss Maudie. Basically, Scout admired Miss Maudie. She was her hero. Calpurnia is a very important character in the novel. Scout has known her her whole life and has basically lived with her, but they weren't that close. Scout never liked Calpurnia very much, mostly because she always complained about her behaviour. "She was always ordering her out of the kitchen, asking her why she couldn't behave as well as Jem when she knew he was older, and calling her home when she wasn't ready to come. Their battles were epic and one-sided. Calpurina always won, mainly because Atticus always took her side." (pg. 6). One more reason why Scout didn't like Calpurnia is because she made her practice writing. Then, when Scout's teacher in grade one found out that Scout can read and when Scout got in trouble for that, she blamed Calpurnia. At that time, she was too young to realize that Calpurnia only tried to help her and teach her so she would be literate and know more useful things. 1999-12-04T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mockingbird-1422.aspx To Kill A Mocking Bird To Kill A Mocking Bird deals with many primal and basic lessons in human nature. The book exposes many issues that affect most people throughout their lives. Scout, the main character was one of the most affected by these lessons. During the book she was exposed to many profound experiences, which no doubt will leave a lasting impression. In the three years that the book took place, she may have learned the most important things she will learn over her entire life. One person that affected Scouts life was Boo Radley. He brought wonder, fear and then finally relief to her heart. At first kids thought he was evil. There were rumours that while he cut out the newspaper for his scrap book he "drove the scissors into his parent's leg."(pg11) He had tried to kill them. Even though this may have been just a rumor the kids were terrified of the Radleys. They described him often as a monster "six-and-a-half feet tall" with "bloodstained" hands. He was said to eat "raw squirrels and any cats he could catch".(pg12) During the rest of the book Scout and companions tried to meet Arthur (Boo) and get over their fear of him. They did not succeed. But he showed affection for them by leaving them gifts in a tree. Finally at the end of the book he proves he is a good person by saving Scout and Jem's lives. In this instance Scout may have found that to negatively prejudge someone is wrong. She also learned compassion. Scout also learnt about the ugliness of life. About death and pain. This lesson occurred while her brother had to read to a sick and dieing old lady. This lady's name was Mrs. Dubose. She had been a morphine addict and had decided to go clean till her death. To die as a free women, to die knowing she had won. Scout describes her as a ugly lady and during their reading sessions she would have some kind of spasm-fits. Her head moved side to side. She would drool. "Her mouth seemed to have a private existence of it's own." (pg.107) After many reading sessions with her having a fit each time, she died one day. Probably the most important person in Scout's life was the one who had set the best examples for her. This was Atticus. He taught Scout how to deal with people. One 1999-11-25T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-A-Mocking-Bird-1314.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird: Racism In Harper Lee’s book, To Kill A Mockingbird, there are many examples of racism. During this time in history racism was acceptable. Racism is a key theme in her book. Not only those who were black, but also those who affiliated with blacks, were considered inferior. Atticus, a lawyer, who defended blacks in court, was mocked. An example of this is when Mrs. Dubose said, “Your father’s [Atticus] no better than the niggers and trash he works for!” Mr. Dolphus Raymond was also criticized for affiliating with blacks, especially black females. Example is when Jem said, “He likes ‘em [blacks] better ‘n he likes us [whites], I reckon.” Basically, you were black if you “liked” blacks. Blacks, because they were considered inferior, were expected to do everything for whites. Everything had to be perfect, without excuse. Even when Calpurnia, a Finch family friend, did not make the perfect cup of coffee, she was mocked. Book excerpt, “She [Calpurnia] poured one tablespoon of coffee into it and filled the cup to the brim with milk. I [Scout] thanked her by sticking out my tongue...”. Even when blacks did do good, they were still mocked. An example is when Aunt Alexandra said, “Jem’s growing up now and you are too. We decided that it would be best for you to have some feminine influence.” Even though Calpurnia was a female, Aunt Alexandra over-looked this, because of her race. People were so biased, it didn’t matter how good a job a black person did. Since there was such strong racism in Maycomb, there were excuses made for whites. In the book, it was obvious that Bob Ewell was a mean man. It was also obvious that he was abusive to his daughter, Mayella, and he was the one who violated her, not Tom Robinson, because what the evidence showed. But, the people of Maycomb over-looked the evidence in favor of Tom Robinson, just because he was black. In Harper Lee’s book, To Kill A Mockingbird, there are many examples of racism. The legal barriers to racial equality have been torn down, and racial exclusion from the benefits of society and the rights of citizenship is no longer nearly total, as it once was. But discrimination still limits the opportunities and stifles the hopes of many black Americans and other minorities. In the realms of housing, employment, medical care, education and the administration of the criminal justice system, we 1999-11-25T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-Racism-1328.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout learns valuable lessons on the evil of prejudice present in her Southern town of Maycomb, on the true nature of courage, and on the dangers of judging others before "...climbing into their skin and walking around in it." Set in the mid 1930s, Scout Finch is a young girl living with her older brother, Jem, and her lawyer father. Being a kid, Scout has the simple duties of a minor, to have fun and to stay out of trouble. But along the way, she also learns many important things. Although the majority of her hometown is prejudiced, Scout's innocent mind remains non prejudice and caring of others. To her, all is equal, so therefore, should be treated equal. There is no doubt that Scout's character is one whom is an individual, someone whom will stick to her own perspective no matter how cruel and racist other people can be. In her adult world, Scout learns to treat all people fairly with dignity and respect. One of the most important role models in Scout's life, is her father, Atticus. Atticus is a small town lawyer who deals with a very tough case involving a black man and his rights. Although Atticus is a single father, he manages to teach his children right from wrong. He makes it a common practice to live his life as he would like his children to live theirs, and therefore displays the characteristics of an honest, respectable, and kind man. Atticus demonstrates his feelings for example, by showing the highest respect for everyone in Maycomb, regardless of their color or class. His serious defense for Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman, proves his high ideals. Throughout the trial process, Atticus shows Jem and Scout that a true person is standing up for what you believe in, and all human beings, despite their race, deserve respect. Atticus not only shows his non prejudice ways through defending Tom Robinson, but also through his everyday dealings with Calpurnia, the cook. He refuses to fire Calpurnia despite Aunt Alexander's wishes, showing the high value he puts on Calpurnia. Atticus even goes as far to say he considers Calpurnia as a faithful member of the family. By doing this, Atticus hopes to show Scout and Jem that he still treats Calpurnia as an equal, even though she is 1999-07-02T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-731.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird - themes In my opinion theme with the most impact in 'To Kill a Mockingbird" is Hypocrisy as shown in three main incidents . These are the teachings of Ms Gates about the atrocities of Adolf Hitler whilst she hated blacks ; the missionary circle trying to show how Christian they are while believing that to be a brother of Christ you must be white and finally the hypocrisy of the American court system in the 30's by saying they stand for justice. In Ms Gates' classroom we read about her teaching her class that the Jews are being persecuted against by the Nazi's. According to Ms. Gates this is un Christian and she finds these actions despicable. The hypocrisy of this teaching is shown as soon as she mentions the word 'persecution'.This is due to the fact that she herself is persecuting the black people of Maycomb by not raising an eyebrow to the killing of an innocent black man. This lady shows her blindness to the racial problems of the Deep South ( where she lives ) but feels a lot of empathy for the Jews who are being mistreated and slaughtered in Germany ( many thousands of miles away ) . The missionary circles in the 1930's working in the south of America show the two faced nature of white citizens several times in each meeting . One strong example that springs to mind is Mrs Mariweathers positive comments about a Christian explorer in Africa helping the evil savages see the light of Jesus Christ whilst on the other hand she condemns Attacus for helping an innocent Negro . These so called Christian women safely say well done to a man helping African black people ( who were happy with their lives in the first place ) but if anyone should help out a black person anywhere near them it then becomes 'Nigger loving' and should be condemned by all within the community. It creates a double standard by showing that as long as racial problems do not involve them directly they can be tolerant. The American Courts of the 1930's were also hypocritical.Truth and Justice were held as the most basic right for Americans. Truth in the Tom Robinson case was never a factor. The white jury knew that Bob Ewell had beaten and raped his daughter Mayaella Ewell and that Tom was innocent .But because a human being had 1999-05-09T14:00:00-04:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-themes-663.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird <b>Early Life</b> Born in Monroeville, Alabama, on April 28, 1926, Nelle Harper Lee is the youngest of three children of Amassa Coleman Lee and Francis Lee. Before his death, Miss Lee's father and her older sister, Alice, practiced law together in Monroeville. When one considers the theme of honor that runs throughout Miss Lee's novel, it is perhaps significant to note that her family is related to Confederate General Robert E. Lee, a man especially noted for his devotion to that virtue. Miss Lee received her early education in the Monroeville public schools. Following this, she entered the University of Alabama to study law. She left there to spend a year in England as an exchange student. Returning to the university, she continued her studies, but left in 1950 without having completed the requirements for her law degree. She moved to New York and worked as an airline reservation clerk. <b>Character</b> It is said that Miss Lee personally resembles the tomboy she describes in the character of Scout. Her dark straight hair is worn cut in a short style. Her main interests, she says, are "collecting the memoirs of nineteenth century clergymen, golf, crime, and music." She is a Whig in political thought and believes in "Catholic emancipation and the repeal of the corn laws." <b>Sources Of To Kill A Mockingbird</b> Among the sources for Miss Lee's novel are the following: (1) National events: This novel focuses on the role of the Negro in Southern life, a life with which Miss Lee has been intimately associated. Although it does not deal with civil rights as such - for example, the right to vote - it is greatly concerned with the problem of human dignity - dignity based on individual merit, not racial origin. The bigotry of the characters in this novel greatly resembles that of the people in the South today, where the fictional Maycomb County is located. (2) Specific Persons: Atticus Finch is the principal character in this novel. He bears a close resemblance to Harper Lee's father, whose middle name was Finch. In addition to both being lawyers, they are similar in character and personality - humble, intelligent and hard-working. (3) Personal Experience: Boo Radley's house has an aura of fantasy, superstition, and curiosity for the Finch children. There was a similar house in Harper Lee's childhood. Furthermore, Miss Lee grew up amid the Negro prejudice and violence in Alabama. In addition, she studied law and visited 1999-01-22T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-80.aspx To Kill a Mockingbird Miss Harper Lee has chosen Scout as a first person narrator in this story. This narrative technique has many strengths and some weaknesses. Scout is a bright, sensitive and intelligent little girl. For all her intelligence, she is still a child and does not always fully understand the implications of the events she reports. This is sometimes amusing, as the time she thinks Miss Maudie's loud voice scares Miss Stephanie. Scout does her best to inform us of the happenings at the Tom Robinson trial. Yet, she is not certain what rape is, and is neither aware of the prejudice state surrounding her. Ultimately she represents the innocence within society. In To Kill A Mockingbird, Scout Finch, a little girl growing up in a small Southern town, tells the story of her childhood, when she witnessed the trial of a Negro falsely accused of raping a white woman. The Negro's lawyer is Scout's father, Atticus Finch. He defends the Negro vigorously, though he expects to lose the case. As well as being the story of childhood, it is also the story of the struggle for equality of the American Negro. To Kill A Mockingbird can be read as the story of a child's growth and maturation. Almost every incident in the novel contributes something to Scout's perception of the world. Through her experiences she grows more tolerant of others, learning how to " climb into another person's skin and walk around in it." On her first day of school she finds that there are both social and poor classes in society, some are respectable and others not. She also learns that her father is an extra-ordinary man, fighting for a Negro's rights in court. At the trial of Tom Robinson Scout learns about equality and inequality, about justice and injustice and finally about racial prejudice. Many times during the course of the novel the idea of the mockingbird comes to mind. We first hear of the bird when the children are given there first air rifles for Christmas, There father warns them to never shoot the songbird, saying to do so would be a sin. During the trial of Tom Robinson, it occurs to the reader that the Negro has many characteristics he shares with the mockingbird, He is a gentle man, who has never harmed anyone and only tried to help. His murder is as much a sin as the killing of 1999-01-22T13:00:00-05:00 http://75.150.148.189/free-essay/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-95.aspx