Essay Plans

Below is a selection of the most common essays you will be challenged with and each includes a collection of important points for you to draw and expand on, adding you own thoughts and interpretations.


1. Was Tom Robinson doomed to lose when Mayella Ewell accused him of rape?

· The jury's reaction to the way Tom describes how he “felt sorry for her” is a clear example of breaking social boundaries. This is reflected in the attitude of the prosecuting lawyer Mr. Gilmer who refers to Tom a 'boy', a patronising term. We as the audience find this attitude as unfair and can sympathise with Tom Robinson.
· “Calpurnia rarely commented on the way of white people,” suggests further the social boundary's and introduces us to the social divisions early in the novel. This creates an almost bleak outlook, however Lee contrasts this with the idea of change.
· “A court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury,” could suggest that the case isn't only based on evidence, but other deep-rooted social prejudices. However, the fact that Atticus is appointed to defend Robinson, a respected and fair member of society, does provide some hope.
· A Cunningham changes after the lynch mob, this does suggest that change is not only possible but achievable: “a step it's just a baby step, but it's a step,” helps to emphasise this idea of change.
· The lynch mob could have been used by Lee as a method to represent the idea of Tom's fate being sealed, however Lee contrasts this with the innocence of Scout which emphasises the fact that people can change (the Cunningham's) because they're “still human.”
· Other forms of prejudice throughout the novel include the attitudes to outsiders, for example Boo and Dolphus Raymond.
· 'To kill a Mockingbird' could be described as a metaphor for Tom Robinson, his death is also described as the “senseless slaughter of songbirds”, which helps to emphasise the idea that the character of Tom Robinson has a deeper meaning and representation within the novel.

 

2. How does the audiences views on Boo Radley change throughout the novel?

· At the beginning of the novel we are given a description of Boo: “Boo was about six-and-a-half feet tall, judging from his tracks; he dined on raw squirrels,” this helps to emphasise innocence of Scout and Jem. The term 'Boo' is also a somewhat childish name.
· However, we as audience also gain a somewhat different interpretation of Boo early in the novel, he is described as a neighbourhood legend, and taunted in their childish game, we could at this point view Boo as a victim of Maycomb.
· This idea of Boo being a victim is emphasised by the quote: “Nobody knew what form of intimidation Mr Radley employed”.
· The narrative structure employed by Lee is also very effective. It is written in the 1st person with adult Scout writing as though she is looking back on her childhood. This allows us as the audience see how Scout moves through the process of learning, so as Scout learns so do we. This helps to change our view on Boo: “Someone inside the house was laughing,” early on in the novel could suggest a somewhat childish nature of Boo Radley. It introduces a growing relation between Boo, Scout, and Jem.
· The presents in the tree could be interpreted as a turning point in our opinion of Boo, we as the audience can see quite clearly that it is Boo who is leaving the children presents, and whilst child Scout is unable to understand why the tree is being blocked up, Jem and we as the audience can see that Boo may actually be a victim within the novel. Other scenes that involve Boo too suggests he is a nice character: during the fire when Scout “found myself clutching a brown woollen blanket,” and Jem's pants being stitched up emphasises the continuing relation with Boo, and changes our opinions on him.
· “So busy worrying about the next world they've never learned to live in this one,” acts as a reference to Mr Radley, which could suggest that he is so religious and concerned with “doing good” he hasn't realised he is harming those closest to him.
· At the end of the novel Boo displays selfless courage when rescuing the children. He could act as a metaphor for a mockingbird.
· The final description of Boo: “Timid smile,” “delicate indentation at him temples,” acts as a major contrast to the initial description of Boo.

 

3. Compare different portrayals of courage

· The idea that courage is when you are doomed to failure but still go through with it anyway. Atticus is doomed to failure but still goes thought with the case, the civil war too could be seen as something the South were doomed to lose, however they fought anyway and Mrs Dubose too is going to die, however she still fights to tackle her Morphine addiction. She is described by Atticus as “the bravest person” he knows.
· Atticus tells Jem that “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,” however Atticus was known as “one shot Finch,” which could suggest that he somewhat regrets his actions in the past. This idea is displayed in the quote “it is a sin to kill a mockingbird,” which could be a metaphor for the destruction of innocence. Atticus now feels that he should protect others, even if he is doomed to lose.
· Atticus opposing the lynch mob is another example of courage, “adjusting its creases with lingering fingers. They were trembling a little,” helps to build the tension which emphasises the drama within the scene.
· There are also other examples of courage throughout the novel, for example Jem touching the Radley house and Scout not fighting.
· Boo displays selfless courage by going out to protect them from Bob Ewell. This could suggest that ultimately good can overcome evil.
· There are also examples of no courage in the novel, for example how Bob Ewell beats his daughter, “what her father do to her don't count” could suggest that Mayella is a victim of sexual abuse.

 

4. How do Scout and Jem grown up during the novel?

· Start of the novel they are childish and innocent, the term “Boo” is a particularly childish phrase and their description of Boo too is rather childish: “Boo was about six-and-a-half feet tall, judging from his tracks; he dined on raw squirrels and any cat he could catch.”
· At school Scout is punished for being able to read and write and they are instead taught irrelevant things such as how to “walk like an Egyptian”. Scout instead learns from Atticus, which is emphasised when she explains: “wasn't much else to learn, except possibly algebra”.
· Changing opinions, at the beginning of the novel it is described how Scout viewed Cal as “tyrannical”. However as Scout grows up she becomes increasingly aware of other peoples feelings, she described how: “if I spilled anything Calpurnia would have to wash my dress again for tomorrow. This had been a busy day for her. I decided to stay out”, which emphasises how Scout has become increasingly more aware of Calpurnia’s feelings.
· They began the novel particularly naïve for example Scouts lack of understanding at the lynch mob, however the lessons Atticus teaches them help them to develop, for example he demonstrates “what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand”.
· At the trial Jem is sure that Tom will be found innocent with the strong evidence in his favour, however it is described how “each guilty was a separate stab between them,” Jem becomes disillusioned with justice. The verdict wasn't just based on evidence.
· The Mockingbird is a prominent metaphor which could represent the destruction of innocence.
· Jem also develops physically as he enters puberty.
· There is also some humour as Jem develops; Scout describes how “Jem picked up a rock and threw it...'Atticus is a gentleman, just like me!'” which could suggest that Jem is still a child at heart. However as the novel develops Jem learnt from the trial for example when he protects the insects, describing how “they don't bother you”.
· The lynch mob could also be seen as the point where Jem becomes a young man: “As Atticus's fists went to his hips, so did Jem's” Jem standing up to Atticus and Atticus's reactions “massaged Jem's hair, his one gesture of affection” help to emphasise a developing character.

 

5. In what ways do the opinions of Atticus and Miss Maudie differ from those of the other residents?

· “Aunt Alexandra fitted into the world of Maycomb like a hand into a glove” acts as a connection to the attitudes in Maycomb.
· Atticus gives people respect based on their individual merits, this view is passed onto Scout, however Aunt Alexandra has a very different view: “I had received the impression that Fine Folks were people who did the best they could with the sense they had, but Aunt Alexandra was of the opinion, that the longer a family had been squatting on one patch of land the finer it was”
· Aunt Alexandra also has a very different attitude towards Calpurnia, Atticus however makes his views clear explaining how: “anything fit to say at the tables fit to say in front of Calpurnia.”
· Atticus encourages people to respect other peoples opinions explaining how you should “step into another person's shoes.”
· Miss Maudie and Atticus believe in justice, for everyone regardless of colour: “people in this town who say that fair play is not marked white only,” Aunt Alexandra does begin to show signs of changing.
· There is also a change in the jury, in particular one of the Cunningham's after the lynch mob, who wanted to declare Tom innocent.

 

 

6. How does Lee convey her views on the treatment of “Mockingbirds” through the characters of Tom Robinson and Boo Radley?

· Tom and Boo both do no harm similar to mockingbirds: “All it does is sing its heart out”.
· Boo is persecuted in the town by gossip, creating a figure who is believed to be: “Boo was about six-and-a-half feet tall judging from his tracks.”
· Tom is persecuted by the lynch mob and the jury.
· Tom is eventually shot when he attempts to escape. Boo however saves the children, which could represent how can good can combat evil. Both are victims and should be protected.
· Other references are how Scout describes that hurting Boo would be like “shootin' a Mockingbird” and the death of Tom is linked to the “senseless slaughter of songbirds”. These both enhance the metaphor by making it easier to understand.

 

7. Outline the importance of family

· The Cunningham's are presented as hard working but with a lack of education.
· Social divisions are present within Maycomb: these are presented as the upper whites e.g. the Finches, the lower whites e.g. the Cunningham’s, the black community and the white trash a.k.a. the Ewell’s.
· Scout describes how she believes there is “only one kind of folk. Folk.” Jem however doesn't think it can be that simple because if it were people should be able to get along.
· “Fine folk were the people who did the best they could with what they had” describes Atticus's opinion of what makes a family 'fine', a more open-minded view than that taken by Aunt Alexandra “I had received the impression that Fine Folks were people who did the best they could with the sense they had, but Aunt Alexandra was of the opinion, that the longer a family had been squatting on one patch of land the finer it was”.
· Aunt Alexanndra believes family is important when she claims Scout can’t be associated with the Cunningham’s: “because-he-is-trash”, however it was a Cunningham who changed his views after the lynch mob incident and tried to fight for Tom’s freedom.

 

8. What it the significance that the jury took several hours in the 1930s?

· It should be fair, “Equal rights for all, special privileges for none!” however the trial is only a formality.
· There are significant social divisions present within Maycomb emphasised by Aunt Alexandra when she claims: “Everyone in Maycomb, it seemed, had a streak: a drinking streak…” or during the court scene “you felt sorry for her, you felt sorry for her?” The trial was based on more than just the evidence.
· The majority of children came from a background that made them “immune to imaginative literature” could suggest that they are not welcoming of change, therefore the jury taking several hours is very significant.
· The presence of racism in the town too suggests that it is very significant.
· The jury taking several hours is evidence of change/justice, it was a Cunningham who changed his view after attempting to kill Tom during a lynch mob.
· Atticus was appointed to defend him and protects Tom suggesting some form of justice, “a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury”.
· There does appear to be some hope for the future, “it’s just a baby-step, but it’s a step”.

 

9. What has Scout learnt about life from other peoples perspectives

· The narrative structure helps to engage the reader, as she learns we learn which helps to shape our opinions.
· Scout begins to respect the things done for her: “if I spilled anything Calpurnia would have to wash my dress again for tomorrow. This had been a busy day for her. I decided to stay out.”
· Changing opinions of others: “just a Negro” was her opinion of African-Americans at the beginning of the novel however she seems to change her view: “there’s just one kind of folks. Folks.” She doesn’t conform to social divisions for example she wears overalls, however does dress to please Aunt Alexandra at the Missionary circle.
· Learns the truth about Dolphus Raymond and his “mixed children”.
· She has sympathy for Mayella, “Mayalla Ewell must have been the loneliest person in the World” interestingly Bob Ewell isn’t portrayed in this way, his wife is dead, has lots of dependent children and is an alcoholic. Bob Ewell could be considered to be an almost manifestation of racism.
· Scout could also be perceived as one of the symbolic Mockingbirds in the novel. Her innocence is destroyed due to the contact with evil. Boo could be seen as the ultimate representation of goodness and her opinion, as our opinion of Boo changes as the novel progresses. At the beginning Boo is described as “six-and-a-half feet tall, judging from his tracks” however in reality he has a “timid smile”. Scout in particular is able to “step into his shoes” when she stands at his porch in the closing chapters of the novel.
· Scout finally sums up her experience claiming “wasn’t much else to learn except possibly algebra”.

 

10. Outline the different forms of prejudice that are displayed in the novel and how does Harper Lee make clear her views?

· Family/social divisions present in the novel: “I had received the impression that Fine Folks were people who did the best they could with the sense they had, but Aunt Alexandra was of the opinion, that the longer a family had been squatting on one patch of land the finer it was” This is an obviously example of satire within the novel and helps to emphasise Harper Lee’s views.
· Lee describes how “Aunt Alexandra fitted into the World of Maycomb like a hand into a glove”, this could suggest that Aunt Alexandra as a character is used by Lee to act an insight for the reader into the attitudes in Maycomb. This is a very effective method, which helps to overcome some of the limitations posed by the first person narrative. Aunt Alexandra provides Scout with the impression that “Everyone in Maycomb, it seemed had a streak: a drinking streak…”. We as the reader can see this view as unfair and is catalysed by her views of the Cunningham’s, when she claims Scout can’t be associated with them “because-he-is-trash”, however it was a Cunningham who changed his views after the lynch mob incident and tried to fight for Tom’s freedom.
· There is further prejudice over social divisions in particular attitudes to outsiders such as Boo who proves to be the ultimate symbol of good when he saves the children. Dolphus Raymond, too experiences prejudice due to his wife being coloured. These two characters could be considered as a metaphor for the Mockingbird symbol.
· Atticus as a character is one the reader immediately looks to as a source of moral justice, partially due to the fact that the first person narrative structure provides us with the views of child Scout. Atticus judges people on their individual merits and encourages Scout to appreciate other people’s point of views, “step into another persons shoes”. Atticus as a character is also intelligent and well respected within the community, for example how “people were content to re-elect him”.
· Bob Ewell as a character is interestingly one we as the audience are encouraged to feel no sympathy for. He is an alcoholic with depended children and his wife is dead, however due to the extent of his racism for example when he calls Tom a “black nigger” suggests that in a town of racists he is the worst. This suggests that Lee is strongly apposed to racism.
· The narrative structure allows us as the audience to learn as Scout learns. She moves from an innocent mindset to one, which is wise without prejudice. This process of learning is best summarised when she claims, “wasn’t much else to learn except possibly algebra”.

 

11. Why do you think Harper Lee included humour?

· Lee employs different styles of humour – erratic character: “Misses Tutti and Frutti…were both deaf. Miss Tutti denied it and lived in a World of silence, but Miss Fruitti, not about to miss anything, employed an ear trumpet.” The names are quiet funny, however the characters have no direct involvement in the story. Judge Taylor does have an involvement in the story “Bit by bit the dead cigar would disappear, to reappear some hours later as a flat slick mess”
· The humour could be used to contrast with the serious themes in the novel such as prejudice, courage and the coexistence of good and evil.
· Scout is particularly funny due to her innocence. “I stayed miserable for two days” after Dill leaves or “The World’s endin’ Atticus!” when it begins to snow are examples of this.
· Dill as a character is also funny for example when he decided “I think I’ll be a clown when I get grown”
· Reason why she did this: To contrast or emphasis the serious situations. This provides a strong juxtaposition, for example when the children are attacked whilst wearing costumes.
· The lynch mob is another example of where humour is sharply contrasted with a serious theme. Scouts innocence is particularly amusing contrasts which quotes such as “adjusting its creases with lingering fingers. They were trembling a little”.
· There are also numerous example of irony for example when the teacher claims; “We are a democracy” however makes clear her racist views after the trial.

 

12. Compare and contrast the attitudes towards the trial between the adult and children.

· Similarities: “The majority of children came from a background that makes them immune to imaginative literature” Many of the children have similar views to their parents.
· Dill starts crying during the trial hearing Mr. Gilmer’s cross-examination which is similar to Dolphus Raymonds view who claims “it makes you sick”. Different to other adults’ views: “stirring us” the Negroes.
· Many of the children are innocent until they come into contact with evil and catch “Maycombs usual disease”. They may then come to adopt similar views to their parents, “nigger lover” is a phrase used by cousin Frances.

 

13. How is the narrative structure used to convey the childish views of young Scout and show the benefits of hindsight?

· It adds humour: “The World’s endin’, Atticus!” which helps to contrast with serious themes and provides juxtaposition with the drama.
· The narrative structure also helps to emphasise her innocence for example at the lynch mob.
· The actual structure is circular. It begins with Scout as an adult looking back and then takes us into her shoes. This helps to engage the reader and as she learns we learn. This helps to shape our attitudes and overall makes the whole novel more effective. This idea of learning is emphasised when Scout claims, “wasn’t much else to learn except possibly algebra”.
· Hindsight helps to explain actions Scout didn’t understand “it was not until many years later that I realised he wanted me to hear every many years later that I realised he wanted me to hear every word he said” we realise the implications of an action and realise Atticus’s wisdom.
· The narrative structure also help us to see her development “I think there’s just one kind of folks. Folks.”

 

14. To what extent is Jem right to fell disillusion by society?

· Jem could be perceived as one of the Mockingbirds of the novel. The destruction of his innocence at a time when his life is hectic enough (puberty).
· He became aware of the social divisions within Maycomb – he thought people from Maycomb were “the best folk in the World”, however learns that many harbour unfair prejudices.
· At the trial he was sure they would win given the overwhelming evidence “we got him” however this was not the case. The verdict was not based on just the evidence and it was hard for Jem to accept this, “each guilty was a separate stab between them”.
· For the legal system to be fair people must change, “a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury”
· There is some evidence of change in these attitudes such as the jury taking hours due to the Cunningham changing his view after the lynch mob.
· Jem remain disillusioned for some time “Jem was suddenly furious. He leaped off the bed, grabbed me by the collar and shook me”
· Unlike Mr Raymond Jem is not without hope, he does show signs of having learnt a positive lesson from the trial, he chooses to protect the insect claiming “they don’t bother you” after seeing Tom’s destruction he now wants to protect others. He moves towards a happier life expressed at the beginning of the novel when adult Scout was talking about Jem also as an adult.

 

15. Is Mayella Ewell as much of a victim as Boo or Tom?

· “Mayella Ewell must have been the loneliest person in the World” does conjure some sympathy towards her, interestingly Bob Ewell isn’t portrayed in this way, he’s an alcoholic, with dependent children and a dead wife, however Lee chooses to create a character who the audience can feel no sympathy for. He is portrayed as a manifesto of racism.
· She is a victim of her father, it was physically impossible for Tom to have raped her, which leads us to believe she was beaten by her father. “what her father does to her don’t count” could suggest she is a victim of sexual abuse, creating further sympathy for her.
· She has no friends and takes offensive to being called ‘Miss’.
· There is prejudice against her, the Ewels are described as ‘white trash’ which too creates further sympathy. She broke social boundaries so could be a victim of this ridged social system “she did something that in our society if unspeakable”.
· However, she doesn’t change her story; this may be because of fear of her father or loyalty to her family?
· She indirectly leads to Tom’s death.
· She in turn destroys an innocent mans life and ruins his family

 

16. How does Calpurnia provide an insight into the black community?

· Due to the social divisions within the novel Lee may have chosen to use characters to represent certain groups – Aunt Alexandra is described as “fitted into the World of Maycomb like a hand into a glove” and Calpurnia may represent the black community.
· Aunt Alexandra gives an insight into social prejudices, which contrasts with Atticus’s views “Anything fit to say at the table’s fit to say in front of Calpurnia” Atticus respects her fully.
· “Clapurnia rarely commented on the ways of white people” early in the novel helps us to gain a full insight into the black communities position in the novel.
· She leads a double life “They’s my comp’ny” is the language she uses when in the black community, however outside it she speaks like the Finches.
· Life is harder for them, “burnedout candles stood at the heads of infant graves. It was a happy cemetery” provides an excellent example of an oxymoron, they make the best of what they have and are a tightly packed loving community: “Nobody leaves here until we have ten dollars”. They could be descried as fine folk “Fine folks make the best they could with the sense they had”.
· She has a lack of racism. Only Lula displays some racism “why you bringin’ white chillum to nigger church” however this is an isolated case which is persecuted by the rest of the church.
· Why did lee do this? Guilt over the way they’ve been treated. It also helps to make the message of social harmony easier to understand and more effective.

 

17. 1st Person narrative shapes our attitude to Boo

· As Scout’s views change so do ours. The structure’s circular so at the beginning adult Scout is almost mocking herself and her innocent attitude to Boo: “Boo was about six-and-a-half feet tall judging from his tracks” compared to an animal/beast – this is obviously ridiculous, how rumours can build when someone doesn’t conform. Innocence.
· Boo as a victim? Game/rumours he is persecuted by everyone “Nobody knew what form of intimidation Mr. Radley employed to keep Boo out of sight”, he is “so busy worrying about the next World they’ve never learned to live in this one”. Mr Radley is so concerned following his religion that he doesn’t realise he’s hurting those closest to him.
· Changing opinion “someone inside the house was laughing” Scout may have viewed this as sinister? Could be quite childish/finds them funny? Hole in the tree is blocked up, Scout doesn’t fully understand the situation but Jem does crying we too by Jem’s reaction can understand what’s happened cares for the children? Fire “found myself clutching a brown woollen blanket” –good?
· Begin to understand the situation more/understand Boo Radley’s mentality “because he wants to stay inside”
· End – ultimate symbol of good (kills Bob Ewell) selfless courage “timid smile” “delicate indentations at his temples” nice shy.

 

18. In what ways does the relationship between Jem, Scout and Atticus change?

· At the beginning we are introduced to the description of Atticus as a 'satisfactory' father, this could suggest a somewhat lacking father or just what they want in a father isn't always what we as an audience see as a good father. It becomes apparent later in the novel that the latter is true. The children describe how their father “didn't do anything”, however they soon learn that this is quite the opposite. Atticus was once known as “one-shot finch” however Jem realises that “if he was proud of it, he'da told us” suggesting an increasingly strong relationship as they begin to get to know one-anther better.
· Atticus could also be described as a fair father. He listens to both sides of an argument and answers their questions truthfully.
· The lynch mob could be seen as a main point where the relationship between Jem and Atticus changes for the better. This could be perceived as the point where Jem becomes a man: “As Atticus's fists went to his hips so did Jem's” could suggest a new found courage, something Atticus later congratulates Jem on: he “massaged Jem's hair, his one gesture of affection”.
· Atticus is also a very wise character, which in turn contributes to a strong relationship. For example when Jack and Atticus are talking, Scout is allowed to listen to their conversation “it was not until many years later that I realized he wanted me to hear every word he said” This is also an effective use of the narrative structure which encourages us as the audience to learn as the characters learn.
· The trial brings about a large change in their relationship. Jem becomes disillusioned by justice and society. However, due to Atticus's strong parenting there is hope, Jem moves onto protect an insect, claiming “they don't bother you”, he has obviously learnt a valuable lesson.
· Atticus makes clear his approach to parenting and does so in as fair a manner as he lead his life outlining that “Before Jem looks at anyone else he looks at me, and I've tried to live so I can look squarely back at him”.

 

19. How does the readers view on justice change throughout the novel?

· We are introduced the a child’s sense of justice chiefly through Scout “Atticus doesn’t ever just listen to Jem’s side of it, he hears mine too”
· The trial is a point of injustice: Jem proclaims how “we got him”, however this is not the case. Scout recalls during the verdict how “each guilty was a separate stab between them”. The trial is based on more than just the evidence, but also the deep-rooted prejudices that exist within the minds of the jury. This idea is highlighted by Atticus who states “a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury”.
· Lee does impose some limitations to the readers view on justice chiefly due to the first person narrative. On the one hand this style of writing helps to shape our view of justice so that as Scout learns we learn, for example we can see first hand the effect of the trial on Jem: “Jem was suddenly furious. He leaped off the bed grabbed me by the collar and shook me”. On the other hand the 1st person narrative means that we cannot come into contact with all the different views that people hold within Maycomb so instead Lee is forced to use characters as representations of people’s views. For example Aunt Alexandra is described how she “fitted into the World of Maycomb like a hand into a glove”, she could be representative of the general views of Maycomb.
· Boo could be perceived as a metaphor for a mockingbird: hunting Boo would be like “shootin’ a Mockingbird”. He saves the children against Bob Ewell and therefore could be the ultimate symbol of good within the novel, however he never gets repaid. They do however protect him, for example “let the dead bury the dead”, emphasises the protection offered by Atticus to prevent any further persecution of Boo. Is this really justice?

 

20. Extent of which Mayella Ewell is a victim or a persecutor

· She is described by Scout as “the loneliest person in the World”, creating a feeling of sympathy within us as the audience. It is also described how she “trys harder than the others”, and takes offence to being called ‘miss’ which heightens our sympathy.
· She could be perceived as a victim of her father. It would have been physically impossible to have been raped by Tom and therefore it would suggest that Bob had beaten her. The quote “what her father does to her don’t count” could suggest that she is a victim of sexual abuse which helps to create more sympathy.
· Interestingly Bob Ewell isn’t presented in this way. His wife is dead, he has a lot of dependent children, he’s an alcoholic, however Lee chooses to present him as a cocky arrogant character, who later attacks children. Bob Ewell could be seen as an almost manifestation of racism.
· Mayella is also a victim of Maycomb’s society and its rigid social boundaries. She is branded as “white trash” and the act she committed “she tempted a Negro” is considered ‘unspeakable’.
· However, she doesn’t change her story maybe because of loyalty to her family and indirectly leads to Tom’s death.

 

21. To what extent is Atticus an ‘ideal father’?

· At the beginning of the novel we are introduced to the description of Atticus as “satisfactory”. This could suggest Atticus is an ideal father or simply what the children perceive as an ideal father isn't what we as readers may consider as ideal. This is emphasised the Jem proclaiming “our father doesn't do anything”.
· Atticus is wise, for example with the conversation between Jack and Atticus: “it was not until many years later that I realised he wanted me to hear every word he said”. He is also fair “Atticus doesn't ever just listen to Jem's side of it, he hears mine too”. He also teaches them the lessons that school fails to, for example he teaches them to “see what real courage is”. This process of learning is emphasised by Scout who states “wasn't much else to learn, except possibly algebra”.
· Atticus is also a caring father “massaged Jem's hair, his one gesture of affection” and a father that understands the children’s needs, for example their need for a mother is chiefly taken by Calpurnia.
· But he misjudges Ewell, which could have resulted in his children’s deaths. Other people in the community also don't approve of him, they describe how his “children run wild”.

 

22. Outline Miss Maudies relationship with the people of Maycomb

· Finches – she has known them for a long time “every Christmas he yelled across the street for Miss Maudie to come marry him” joke. Both groups of people are like minded: “we trust him to do right”. What she considers right is justice, a view shared by many in the audience. “there are some men born to do our unpleasant jobs for us. Your fathers one of them”
· Changing relationship with Scout – “she never laughed unless I meant to be funny”, Miss Maudie understands the children. This idea is emphasised by how it is described that “Miss Maudies hand closed tightly on mine, and I said nothing. Its warmth was enough” She offers Scout support when she is being mocked by the others in Maycomb.
· Relationship with the people of Maycomb – she is a friend and neighbour of many, a member of a tightly knighted community. However she does clash with some characters: she clashes with the people at the Missionary circle when they are discussing how some people are “stirring them up” referring to Atticus, and replies to this with “his food doesn’t stick going down”.

 

23. What is Maycomb’s role in the novel?

· Maycomb acts as the setting for the novel. This is a fictional town that is located in Southern America, in the 1930s. Maycomb is a town that still suffers racial tension even after the civil war abolished slavery. This marked the beginning of the USA becoming a ‘democracy’. This idea is considered ironic by Lee who clearly demonstrates that this is not the case: the teacher instructs the class to repeat “we are a Democracy”, and writes on the board “Equal rights for all special privileges for none!” however this is truly not the case. Maycomb could have been chosen by Lee to represent all racist communities.
· Maycomb is initially described by Lee as a “tired old town” this very idea could suggest that Maycomb is slow to change. This is emphasised by how Lee describes that the majority of children come from a background that makes them “immune to imaginative literature” which could too suggest they are not welcoming of new ideas and change. Something foreign is also linked referred to as a disease, the influence of families is called “Maycomb’s usual disease”. The town is very inward looking.
· Sharp contrast between the small town and the dramatic events that unfold, which could have been employed by Lee to emphasise and create the drama within the novel.
· Sharp contrast between the communities in Maycomb. The black community is described as having little but being very close “burntout candles stood at the heads of infant graves.
It was a happy cemetery”. They are portrayed as fine folks, people that “did the best they could with the sense they had”. This contrasts with Aunt Alexandra who is of the opinion that “the longer a family had been squatting on one patch of land the finer it was”.

 

24. Outline dramatic incidents in the novel, why you think Lee includes dramatic scenes?

· Many dramatic scenes in the novel provide a strong juxtaposition (sharp contrast) with the small town image of Maycomb. The final attack on the children in the closing chapters of the novel is a good example of a dramatic scene. Here Lee slowly builds tension “this was the stillness before a thunderstorm”. Then the attack occurs Lee makes effective use of short sentences for effect, heightening the drama “ ‘Run, Scout! Run! Run!’ Jem screamed”.
· There is also some effective use of humour to contrast the drama for example Scout is dressed up as a hen at Halloween and during the lynch mob scene Scout recalls how she “intended to kick his shin, but aimed too high”. This on the one hand emphasise Scouts innocence but on the other removes some of the drama.
· The trial is another dramatic event. Here we know the outcome already but Lee still manages to create drama, for example how Atticus sweats “we had never seen him sweat” suggests he is really invested in the trial.
· Why does she add drama? Makes the audience more attentive, more memorable scenes which overall enhances the effectiveness of the novel.

 

25. Community spirit in Maycomb

· The black community demonstrates a strong sense of community spirit: “Nobody leaves here until we have ten dollars” they care about each others welfare.
· People within Maycomb know each others business, it’s a tightly knitted community which in turn builds up neighbourhood legend.
· Eula May knows everyone by voice and calls them all individually when it snows.
· During the fire a strong sense of community spirit is portrayed “the men of Maycomb in all degrees of dress and undress took furniture” this even includes Boo “found myself clutching a brown woollen blanket”.
· Everybody turns out at court.

 

26. How are women portrayed in the novel?

Mayella Ewell
· She is described by Scout as “the loneliest person in the World”, creating a feeling of sympathy within us as the audience. It is also described how she “trys harder than the others”, and takes offence to being called ‘miss’. “What her father does to her don’t count” could suggest that she is a victim of sexual abuse.
· Mayella is also a victim of Maycomb’s society and its rigid social boundaries. She is branded as “white trash”.
· However, she doesn’t change her story maybe because of loyalty to her family and indirectly leads to Tom’s death.

Miss Maudie
· Like minded with the Finches: “we trust him to do right”. What she considers right is justice, a view shared by many in the audience. “there are some men born to do our unpleasant jobs for us. Your fathers one of them”
· Changing relationship with Scout – “she never laughed unless I meant to be funny”, Miss Maudie understands the children.

Aunt Alexandra
· Due to the restrictions of the first person narrative Lee may have chosen to use characters to represent certain groups – Aunt Alexandra is described as “fitted into the World of Maycomb like a hand into a glove”. She could therefore reflect the views of the general people within Maycomb.
· Aunt Alexandra gives an insight into social prejudices within Maycomb “because-he-is-trash”, however her views do change thanks to Miss Maudie “fair play is not marked white only”.
Calpurnia
· “Anything fit to say at the table’s fit to say in front of Calpurnia” Atticus however respects her fully.
· “Clapurnia rarely commented on the ways of white people” early in the novel helps us to gain a full insight into social boundaries within Maycomb.
· She leads a double life “They’s my comp’ny” She also has a lack of racism and acts like a mother figure for the children.

Mrs Dubose
· Presented as a horrible character she describes Scout as an “ugly little girl”. Her profound racism also furthers the audiences dislike of the character “lawing for niggers”, however she is very brave. Atticus describes how he “wanted you to see what real courage is instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand”. She also gives Jem a Camilia, which could suggest she is actually nice.

 

27. Who is being educated in ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’

· School proves to be largely ineffective in teaching the children, Scout is punished for being able to read and Jem is taught to walk “like an Egyptian”, a clearly useless lesson when compared to the lessons Atticus teaches them
· The narrative structure employed by Lee is circular, so we as the audience can clearly see how Scout is learning and changing. The first person narrative structure also means that as Scout learns we learn, helping the reader to go through a process of education.
· There is also a distinct lack of education; the Ewells and Cunninghams are describes as being “immune to imaginative literature” which could suggest they are not responsive to new ideas. However, Atticus describes them as fine folks “Fine folks were people who did the best they could with the sense they had”, the Cunnnghams also show that they are willing to learn and change for example after the lynch mob it is a Cunningham who wants to free Tom.
· Aunt Alexandra also begins to change, she realises that “fair play isn’t marked white only” and even Jack Finch learns from Scout: “Atticus doesn’t ever just listen to Jem’s side of it, he hears mine too”.

 

28. How does Harper Lee present the fears people face?

· The children’s fears “Boo was about six-and-a-half feet tall judging from his tracks”. However as they grow up they realise that Boo is actually good and is described as having a “timid smile”. He is a symbol for good within the novel that has been shrouded by fear and mystery.
· People fear change. Most children are described as coming from a background that made the “immune to imaginative literature”. Something foreign is linked to a disease “Maycomb’s usual disease”, people are so steeped in prejudice that it is almost like an illness.
· Dramatic scenes in the novel also help to create a climate of fear.

 

29. To what extent is Atticus an ‘upstanding pillar of the community’?

l He doesn't conform to other peoples values but still respects them: “they're entitles to think that”.
l He is respected within the community, he was re-elected un-apposed. He is also respected for other skills, for example he is referred to as “one shot finch”. The black community also demonstrated their respect for him by giving him “enough food to bury the family”.
l People within the community have a great amount of trust for Atticus. Miss Maudie describes how “we have Atticus to go for us” and how people “trust him to do right”. This is despite the fact that many may dislike his views, they still have trust and respect for him.
l Bob Ewell is the only character that demonstrates a strong dislike of Atticus, however the representation of Ewell within the novel somewhat undermines his opinions. Is this fair?