A.​ ​The Bird Motif and Symbolism in ​To Kill a Mockingbird
​
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Motifs are recurring images (the pictures that words make in your head) in a work of literature.
They have metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. Symbols
are images which represent an idea, like the flag O
​ ​ ld Glory represents the U.S.A.., or a crown
represents a Queen.
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
full ​motif of birds​ as it appears throughout the novel. Include a basic definition of motif,
the​ ​Big Picture, and how this concept is apparent in the novel and what it means to the
reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via the Smart Board and then
narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
The Mockingbird​ A mockingbird is the long-tailed songbird Mimus Polyglossus,​ related to
the finch ​(you can make something of this) and native to the Southern States of America. It is
quite a plain bird, often dark gray or black, which gets its name from its habit of imitating other
birds' songs - sometimes up to ​thirty​. It can be easily related in the book to three people:
1. Tom Robinson, the "mockingbird" that it is a sin to kill; 2
​ . ​Boo Radley, who like the bird is
a victim of children and town gossips; and 3
​ . ​Scout, who is small and plain, but "sings"
her own song - the novel.
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Both Tom and Boo are victims of their own kindness (towards Mayella; towards the
children); both are innocent (of rape; of psychopathy); both are victims of prejudice; both
are ​"caged."
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More subtly, the mockingbird could represent the innocence of childhood which is "killed"
in various ways for Scout, Jem and Dill. The mockingbird first appears in Chapter 10,
when Atticus tells the children, "Shoot all the bluejays you want... but remember it's a sin
to kill a mockingbird" (p99). Miss Maudie explains this is because mockingbirds are
neither harmful nor destructive, but only make music for people to enjoy. Its connection
with Boo and Tom is made clear in Chapter 30 (p304), where Scout recognizes that the
public exposure of Boo would be "sort of like shootin' a mockingbird".
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Other than the above instances where the motif recurs on: p105, Chapter 10 - after the
killing of Tim Johnson; p232, Chapter 21 - waiting for the trial verdict; p265, Chapter 25 in Underwood's article; p281, Chapter 21 - on the way to the pageant. - a bluejay is
heard eerily chirping “poor will.” As in the last example, the mockingbird is silent at times
of tension; it is often mentioned in passages of descriptive beauty.
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​Mocking through insults and gossip is also a motif.​ - The children mock Boo and his
life when they imitate and make fun of it; Mayella accuses Atticus of mocking her; The
trial is a mockery of justice. Mr. Raymond is mocked for having an interracial family and
friends. Atticus is called “an N… lover” by Cecil Jacobs, his own nephew and Mrs.
Dubose. The mockingbird therefore links with the themes of Prejudice, Childhood,
Imprisonment and Justice.
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Songs: ​The mockingbird and f​ inches do a
​ ttempt to share beautiful music too, of
course. Tom does so through his various acts of kindness. Cal, her son Zeebo and the
AME church do too. Atticus, of course, affects the whole community, including Mr.
Underwood.
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We might also bear in mind the popular American lullaby about a mockingbird: “And if
that mockingbird don't sing Daddy's gonna buy you a diamond ring.” If we follow this
idea, we might say that the mockingbird contains the idea of what is passed down within
a family, like a heirloom, or like the ideas Atticus passes on to Scout. Certainly the final
image of the book is the strength of the father- daughter relationship.
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As for the jay, these are the bullies of the bird world, which makes Bob Ewell one.
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Find another example of a strong motif used in an outside work, book, album, film,
etc. and briefly share it with us too.
●
Overall, what is the point of incorporating motifs?
​
B. ​The Flower and Plant Motif and Symbolism in T​ o Kill a Mockingbird *
Motifs are recurring images (the pictures that words make in your head) in a work of literature.
They have metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. Symbols
are images which represent an idea, like the flag O
​ ld Glory represents the U.S.A.., or a crown
represents a Queen.
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
full ​motif of flowers and plants​ as it appears throughout the novel. Include a basic
definition of motif, the ​Big Picture, and how this concept is apparent in the novel and
what it means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via the
Smart Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
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​1. Camellias -​ According to York Notes, "Mrs Dubose's camellias represent the
prejudices which cannot be brushed off easily. They have to be tugged by their roots".
Thus Jem's action in cutting of their heads symbolizes his youthful rashness in thinking
that prejudice can be dealt with so simply. It also seems “​ the snow-on-the-mountain”
(note the association of coldness and whiteness), a posh flower, represents M
​ rs.
Dubose's ​standing in the community - her status - while the single one Jem receives
after her death is a symbol of reconciliation, one of the themes of the book which Jem
has to read to Mrs. Dubose - Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe - as well as symbolizing her
freedom from addiction.
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2. Flowers and Southern Belles - o
​ f course, flowers are associated with Southern
Belles, of the Antebellum (pre-Civil War) South in general. They represent the irony of
the superficial, facade of beauty underneath which hides shameful acts of prejudice and
the evils of slavery. The women would decorate their plantations, and even themselves,
with beautiful flowers grown and picked by slaves. - Aunt Alexandra and Ms. Dubose are
great examples of this traditional attitude and viewpoint.
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3. Azaleas.​ These are grown by Miss Maudie, who spends a lot of the novel gardening.
Ms. Maudie can represent the new South, as a tough, hardworking, moral and
independent woman. A type of​ rhododendron​, they are famous for growing in adverse
conditions - shade and barren or acid soil - just as Miss Maudie always has a sunny
character despite the bitterness and prejudice around her in Maycomb. Azaleas are also
known for opening their flowers all at once - and before the Tom Robinson trial Miss
Maudie has a verbal battle with the foot-washers (Puritans) who criticize her for having
such showy flowers. They might be said to symbolize her independence and love of
beauty. Maudie, of course, is one of Atticus’ #1 supporters and is quick to shame
gossips like Ms. Stephanie, who claims that Boo can freeze azaleas….and others. When
her house burns down, ​like the Old South​, she’s more concerned with rebuilding her
gardens on her own.
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4. ​ ​Geraniums​. These are a cultivated relative of the wild cranesbill, tend to smell like
cats, and would not be kept by either Miss Maudie or Mrs Dubose - they are a poor
person’s substitute for roses. Mayella Ewell’s geraniums seem to be the only things
growing in Bob Ewell’s madhouse of a dwelling. Though they smell of cats, they
nevertheless symbolize Mayella’s attempt at cleanliness, beauty, (p, 183) and unrequited
(unfulfilled) love - the love that never comes her way, and which she tries to force from
Tom Robinson. Poignantly, Mayella grows them in "six chipped-enamel slop jars" –
chamberpots – (meant for people to toilet in) in the yard, presumably because they are
the nearest to plant pots available to her. Geraniums grow in any soil providing it is not
waterlogged – so are easy to grow in dry Maycomb.
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The Radley Yard & Trees - ​The Radley yard and garden, is of course, overgrown and
neglected. They also have pecan trees, which are a staple and symbol of the deep
South. The pecans are said to be “poisoned,” much like the ways of The Old South.
When Boo, and the children, try to break through the Radley tradition of isolation,
Nathan Radley seals their tree hole with cement. Of course, later on, Arthur saves the
children and dispatches Bob Ewell in the climax of the novel.
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Find another example of a strong motif used in an outside work, book, album, film,
etc. and briefly share it with us too.
●
Overall, what is the point of incorporating motifs?
C. ​The Southern Gothic Archetype in ​To Kill a Mockingbird *
Archetypes are recognizable patterns that become ingrained within our culture so that most
people can easily recognize their appearance. Often, they are so well-woven into a story that
their impact is subtle (barely recognizable) yet strongly affects the story. They have
metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. A commonly
recognized archetype to represent an “out-of-control creation” is Dr. Victor Frankenstein’s
Monster. A common archetype to present a person who “sacrifices him or herself for others” is a
Christ-Figure. To make these apparent, a writer will make references to these including
perhaps: “a scientist’s lab” or “a crown of thorns.”
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
full ​archetype of the Southern Gothic​ as it appears throughout the novel. Include a basic
definition of archetype, the ​Big Picture, and how this concept is apparent in the novel
and what it means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via
the Smart Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
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​1. What is Gothic Literature -​ Gothic literature takes its name from Gothic architecture.
It includes the backdrop of gothic (medieval) castles, mansions, cathedrals, monasteries,
etc. These buildings were often surrounded by wrought-iron gates, contained secret
passages, spires aimed at reaching toward God, and dungeons for punishment and
were crowned with gargoyle statues. (Gargoyles were actually ancient gutter systems,
meant to spew out water, while creating a gargling sound to ward off evil spirits). Over
time, these expensive to maintain buildings were often left to decay and fall into
disrepair… This can be seen in Great Depression Maycomb, the Ewell residence, and of
course, the Radley’s... More than physical decay though, gothic tales contain - at their
core- moral decay that must be addressed. It’s sometimes right “Under the Wood” of the
building and the foundation must be repaired. At any rate, Gothic settings, like Maycomb
need fixing.
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2. Why Scare us? - ​The Southern Gothic Archetype isn’t meant to terrify, but it is
designed to make us uneasy and upset. It has elements of the macabre (relating to gory
death) and the grotesque (disgusting). You’ll find these in the novel. The reason that this
archetype transfers so well to Southern literature is that the history of the South is dark
and eerie, and continues to have evil which has lingered for decades. I.e. lynch mob
mentality… segregation... the dump houses...
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Monsters and The Supernatural - ​Gothic stories contain references to evil spirits and
creatures that are potentially harmful. Some famous gothic monsters include
Frankenstein’s Monster, which was “an out-of-control” creation of a scientist’s mind,
Count Dracula, “a soul-stealing vampire,” and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide “an elixir drinking
Dr. who could convert from an unassuming physician into a wild and dangerous,
attacking monster by night.” Of course spirits and ghosts also lurk in the darkness.
Consider how these ideas might relate to Boo Radley, Heck tate, Jim Crow, Tim
Johnson, Bob Ewell, Dolphus Raymond, etc.…
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Gothic Madness and The Hero- I​ nsanity is often presented as the greatest fear in
Gothic tales. A Gothic Hero is usually a scary individual who is imprisoned, tortured and
made to go insane. He may be imprisoned physically, emotionally or psychologically.
The Gothic hero will emerge and retreat several times and rarely be seen in his true
state. He will have a reputation of being sensationally violent. If he is successful, he will
eventually conquer his Doppelganger (his alternate, insane self or the part of him that is
making him mad), thus defeating the madness and revealing the truth - once-and-for-all.
Boo Radley, clearly lives amongst racism, faces great prejudice himself, and is deemed
a dangerous and scary monster, even by the “negroes who cross the street to avoid his
house.” But, in the end, he conquers the real racist monster, Bob Ewell. Check out how
the full definition connects to him too.
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Find another example of a strong use of a gothic archetype used in an outside
work, book, album, film, etc. and briefly share it with us too.
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Overall, what is the point of incorporating this archetype?
D. ​The Motif of Poison, Disease, Disability and Symbolism in T​ o Kill a Mockingbird *
Motifs are recurring images (the pictures that words make in your head) in a work of literature.
They have metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. Symbols
are images which represent an idea, like the flag O
​ ld Glory represents the U.S.A.., or a crown
represents a Queen.
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
full ​motif of poison and disease​ as it appears throughout the novel. Include a basic
definition of motif, the ​Big Picture, and how this concept is apparent in the novel and
what it means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via the
Smart Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
The Radley Property -​ The home and yard of this family is said to be dangerous and deadly,
as if it were a weapon. “Even negroes cross the street” out of fear that they may not survive
going near the Radley place. It is as if the “rain rotted shingles,” the unkempt grass and garden
can kill anyone who comes too near. Of course, the house and property add up to a motif of
what a neighborhood can do to poison the reputation of outcast “foot washing” neighbors with a
rowdy son who once vandalized the town.
The Radley Tree Too - ​At first, the tree represents hope and childhood fantasy as the children
receive gifts and treats from their neighbor, Boo. Of course, just as the children seem poised to
really make contact, Mr. Nathan seals up the tree with cement declaring it diseased and in need
of help. The question is: what disease has really taken root around the tree. Of course, the
children themselves once believed it could grow and drop poisonous pecans. Pecans of course
are a staple and a symbol of the Deep South. What is this all about?
Dolphus Raymond - ​Is said to be “eccentric,” crazy and an alcoholic. Of course, Mr. Raymond
isn’t really sick, his apparent life is an act made to make Maycomb feel more comfortable when
he visits. There’s an illness here, but it isn’t his.
Tim Johnson -​ The mad dog episode is usually taken, together with other references to
disease in the novel, to represent the racialism which is rampant in the South, and spreads like
a contagion. Atticus, by shooting Tim Johnson, sets himself up as the "hero" who will attempt to
bring down racism. Note the parallel drawn with this episode by Scout when the jury gives its
verdict (p217).The key to the passage’s main symbolism can be found on page 217, when
Judge Taylor gives his verdict on Tom Robinson, and Scout goes into a kind of dream world,
where she sees something “like watching Atticus walk into the street, raise a rifle to his shoulder
and pull the trigger, but watching all the time knowing that the gun was empty”. We can
understand from this that Tim Johnson foreshadows - is a prediction of - something more
abstract that had to be killed (though Atticus was unable to kill it) - that is, the sick, mad,
deep-rooted prejudices of the American South. That Tim Johnson is colored brown and white
might also have tipped you off to the racial symbolism in the passage, and a number of you
made the connection between the innocence of the dog and the innocence of Tom Robinson,
who was also shot for being what he could not help but be. Note that you could say that the
dog’s “snail’s pace” could be a reference to the slow pace of change in Alabama, and the
“invisible force” which moves it the invisible but pervasive “secret court of men’s hearts” which
silently dictates the law in Maycomb. One could also interpret Miss Maudie’s comment that
Atticus “put his gun down when he realized that God had given him an unfair advantage” as
referring to the unfair advantage that whites held over blacks (because of the color of their skin)
and how whites like hunters preyed on the defenseless blacks. Note also that the mention of
Atticus’s near-blindness in this chapter connects him with T
​ om Robinson through disability.
Tom & Jem - ​Both are connected symbolically by horrific arm injuries. Jem in effect, shares the
Robinson Family’s pain emotionally, and physically. Of course, both are maimed as a reference
to the cripple and corrupt legal and court system.
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Find another example of a strong motif used in an outside work, book, album, film,
etc. and briefly share it with us too.
●
Overall, what is the point of incorporating motifs?
E. ​The Monomyth / Hero Quest Archetype in T​ o Kill a Mockingbird *
Archetypes are recognizable patterns that become ingrained within our culture so that most
people can easily recognize their appearance. Often, they are so well-woven into a story that
their impact is subtle (barely recognizable) yet strongly affects the story. They have
metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. A commonly
recognized archetype to represent an “out-of-control creation” is Dr. Victor Frankenstein’s
Monster. A common archetype to present a person who “sacrifices him or herself for others” is a
Christ-Figure. To make these apparent, a writer will make references to these including
perhaps: “a scientist’s lab” or “a crown of thorns.”
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the
class the full ​archetype of the Hero Quest ​ as it appears throughout the novel. Include a
basic definition of archetype, the ​Big Picture, and how this concept is apparent in the
novel and what it means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be
viewed via the Smart Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
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The Monomyth - ​In storytelling and mythology, the monomyth, or the hero's journey, is
the common template of a broad category of tales that involve a hero who goes on an
adventure, and in a decisive crisis wins a victory, and then comes home changed or
transformed​. See how this can apply to our novel.
1.
The Quest – This motif describes the search for someone or some talisman which, when
found and brought back, will restore fertility to a wasted land, the desolation of which is
mirrored by a leader’s or community’s illness and disability. - How is “the mockingbird”
restored to Maycomb?
2. The Task – This refers to a possibly superhuman feat that must be accomplished in order to
fulfill the ultimate goal. - What is the impossible task that cannot be overcome….?
3.
The Journey – sends the hero in search of some truth of information necessary to restore
justice, and/or harmony to the kingdom. It includes a series of trials & tribulations the hero
faces. Usually, the hero descends into a real or psychological hell & is forced to discover the
darkest truths, often concerning his faults. Once the hero is at this lowest level, he must
accept personal responsibility to return to the world of the living. - How might this appear
through Atticus’s adventure, Boo’s, and metaphorically for Jem and Scout who reach an
epiphany?
4.
The Initiation – This situation refers to a moment, usually psychological, in which an
individual comes into maturity. He/she gains a new awareness into the nature of
circumstances and problems and understands his or her responsibility for trying to resolve
the dilemma. Typically, a hero receives a calling, a message or signal that he or she must
make sacrifices and become responsible for getting involved in the problem. Often a hero
will deny and question the calling and ultimately, in the initiation, will accept responsibility. How is this seen for the characters’ especially our narrator, Scout?
5. The Ritual – Not to be confused with initiation, the ritual refers to an organized ceremony
involving honored members of a community and an Initiate...officially bringing the young
man or woman into the community’s adult world. - What ritual are the children emerged in
that actually sickens them? What honor is bestowed on them in a house of worship?
6.
The Fall – Not to be confused with the awareness in the initiation, this archetype
describes a descent in action from a higher to a lower state of being, might involve
defilement, moral imperfection, and/or loss of innocence. This fall is often accompanied by
expulsion from a kind of paradise as penalty for disobedience and/or moral transgression. Where is this seen?
7. Death and Rebirth – most common of all situational archetypes, this motif grows out of the
parallel between the cycle of nature & the cycle of life. It refers to those situations in which
someone or something, concrete and/or metaphysical dies, yet is accompanied by some
sign of birth or rebirth.
8.
Battle Between Good and Evil – These situations pit obvious forces which represent
good and evil against one another. Typically, good ultimately triumphs over evil despite
great odds.
9.
The Unhealable Wound – This wound, physical or psychological, cannot be healed fully.
This would also indicate a loss of innocence or purity. Often the wounds’ pain drives the
sufferer to desperate measures of madness.
10.
The Magic Weapon – Sometimes connected with the task, this refers to a skilled
individual hero’s ability to use a piece of technology in order to combat evil, continue a
journey, or to prove his or her identity as a chosen individual.
11.
Father-Son Conflict – Tension often results from separation during childhood or from an
external source when the individuals meet as men and where the mentor often has a higher
place in the affections of the hero than the natural parent. Sometimes the conflict is
resolved in atonement.
12.
Innate Wisdom vs. Educated Stupidity – Some characters exhibit wisdom and
understanding intuitively as opposed to those supposedly in charge.
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Find another example of this archetype used in an outside work, book, album, film, etc. and briefly
share it with us too.
Overall, why is this archetype so widely used?
F. ​Allegory, Loss of Innocence and Character Archetypes in T​ o Kill a Mockingbird *
Archetypes are recognizable patterns that become ingrained within our culture so that most
people can easily recognize their appearance. Often, they are so well-woven into a story that
their impact is subtle (barely recognizable) yet strongly affects the story. They have
metaphorical or symbolic value, often supporting a theme or important idea. A commonly
recognized archetype to represent an “out-of-control creation” is Dr. Victor Frankenstein’s
Monster. A common archetype to present a person who “sacrifices him or herself for others” is a
Christ-Figure. To make these apparent, a writer will make references to these including
perhaps: “a scientist’s lab” or “a crown of thorns.” An Allegory is a story where individual
characters represent true reflections of life in order to create a strong lesson.
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
full character ​archetypes ​ as they appears throughout the novel and how this adds up to
an allegory displaying a loss of innocence. Include a basic definition of allegory,
archetype, the ​Big Picture, and how these concepts are apparent in the novel and what it
means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via the Smart
Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
A Loss of Innocence - is considered a rite of passage for all people who achieve maturity. In
other words, each of us must come to realize through life experience that life is not always
easy, happy and safe. In literature these turning points are often dramatic. Consider where
in our story our characters (the children) face this rite of passage. Be sure to explain how the
following characters represent fundamental truths about life in order to build up to this. Also,
consider and relate all of this to the fact that the novel is divided into two parts.
Label each character with an insightful title or label and explain fully. *​ We don’t have to
present all, so let’s check it out and decide. Archetype help -​For example, Billy Joel wrote a
song “The Angry Young Man,” which illustrates and explains a disillusioned youth.
Jean Louise “Scout” Finch​ - narrator/protagonist -intelligent, by the standards of her time & place, a
tomboy. Has a combative streak & basic faith in goodness of people. As the novel progresses, this faith is
tested by the hatred & prejudice that emerge. Scout develops a more grown-up perspective enabling her to
appreciate human goodness without ignoring human evil.
Atticus Finch​ - descended from an old local family. A widower with a dry sense of humor, Instilled in his
children his strong sense of morality & justice. One of the few residents of Maycomb committed to racial
equality. Agrees to defend Tom Robinson, exposing himself and his family to the anger of the white
community. With his strongly held convictions, wisdom, and empathy, Atticus functions as the novel’s moral
backbone.
Jeremy Atticus “Jem” Finch​ - Scout’s brother and constant playmate at the beginning. Jem is something
of a typical American boy, refusing to back down from dares / fantasizing about playing football. Four years
older than Scout, he gradually separates himself from her games, but he remains her close companion and
protector throughout. Jem moves into adolescence during the story, and his ideals are shaken badly by the
evil and injustice that he perceives during the trial.
Arthur “Boo” Radley​ - recluse rarely sets foot outside, dominates imaginations of Jem, Scout, & Dill.
Powerful symbol of goodness swathed in an initial shroud of creepiness, leaving little presents for children,
emerging at an opportune moment to save them. A once intelligent child emotionally damaged by his cruel
father, he provides an example of the threat that evil poses to innocence & goodness. He is one of the
novel’s “mockingbirds,” a good person injured by the evil of mankind.
Bob Ewell​ - A drunken, mostly unemployed, dishonest, mean member of Maycomb’s poorest family. In his
knowingly wrongful accusation that Tom Robinson raped his daughter, Ewell represents the dark side of the
South: ignorance, poverty, squalor, and hate-filled racial prejudice.
Charles Baker “Dill” Harris​ -summer neighbor & friend. Dill is a diminutive, confident boy w/ an active
imagination. Becomes fascinated with Boo representing the perspective of childhood innocence throughout
the novel.
Miss Maudie Atkinson​ - The Finches’ neighbor, a sharp-tongued widow, and an old friend of the family.
Miss Maudie is almost the same age as Atticus’s younger brother, Jack. Shares Atticus’s passion for justice
and is the children’s best friend among Maycomb’s adults. Proud feminist too...
Calpurnia​ - Finches’ black cook, caretaker, mother-figure. Calpurnia is a stern disciplinarian and the
children’s bridge between the white world and her own black community.
Aunt Alexandra​ - Atticus’s sister, strong-willed with a fierce devotion to family. Alexandra is the perfect
Southern lady, and her commitment to propriety and tradition often leads her to clash with Scout.
Mayella Ewell​ - Bob Ewell’s abused, lonely, unhappy daughter. Though one can pity Mayella because of
her overbearing father, one cannot pardon her for her shameful indictment of Tom Robinson.
Tom Robinson​ - black field hand accused of rape. Tom is one of the novel’s “mockingbirds,” an important
symbol of innocence destroyed by evil.
Link Deas​ - Robinson’s employer. In his willingness to look past race and praise the integrity of Tom’s
character, Deas epitomizes the opposite of prejudice.
Mrs. Henry Lafayette Dubose​ - An elderly, ill-tempered, racist woman who lives near the Finches.
Although Jem believes that Mrs. Dubose is a thoroughly bad woman, Atticus admires her for the courage
with which she battles her morphine addiction and illness.
Nathan Radley​ - Boo Radley’s older brother. Scout thinks Nathan is similar to the deceased Mr. Radley.
Nathan cruelly cuts off an important element of Boo’s relationship with Jem and Scout when he plugs up the
knothole in which Boo leaves presents for the children.
Heck Tate​ - The sheriff of Maycomb and a major witness at Tom Robinson’s trial. Heck is a decent man
who tries to protect the innocent from danger but ironically supports the immoral laws.
Mr. Underwood​ - The terribly racist publisher of Maycomb’s newspaper. Mr. Underwood respects Atticus
and proves his ally.
Mr. Dolphus Raymond​ - wealthy white man who lives with his black mistress and mulatto children. He
pretends to be a drunk so that the citizens will have an explanation for his behavior. In reality, he is simply
jaded by the hypocrisy of white society and prefers living among blacks.
Mr. Walter Cunningham​ - A poor farmer and part of the mob that seeks to lynch Robinson at the jail. He
displays his goodness when Scout’s politeness compels him to disperse the men.
Walter Cunningham​ - Classmate cannot afford lunch accidentally gets Scout in trouble.
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Find another example of a strong use of allegory and or loss of innocence in an outside work, book, album, film,
etc. and briefly share it with us too - ​Overall, why use allegory?
G. ​Social Commentary in ​To Kill a Mockingbird *
Using the research given as a guide, it’s the job of your group to present to the class the
definition and explanation of social commentary as it appears throughout the novel and
how this adds up to an artistic attempt by Harper Lee to influence great change. Include a
basic definition, the ​Big Picture, and how these concepts are apparent in the novel and
what it means to the reader. Do so, in a creative presentation that can be viewed via the
Smart Board and then narrated and explained further.
Here’s Some Research to Help
Social Commentary​ is when writers work in criticism of the world in which they live to influence
change. Without seeming to lecture, social commentary is used to naturally reveal injustice to
readers in order to get them thinking. Of course, if the story is well-written and captivating, the
message will spread more widely and get a larger audience. A strong example of social
commentary is seen with Dr. Dre’s 1992 album T
​ he Chronic. The title is a pun. It represents
both the definition for a continuous problem and the street terminology for marijuana. The album
itself provides a criticism of why life is difficult in poor, crime ridden communities that are often
ignored by the outside world.
Burris Ewell & the other Ewell Children - ​It becomes apparent that Maycomb gives the Ewells
minor charity, and certain allowances, but then “gives them the back of its hand.” This is
perhaps one of the “sins” that Scout never fully comprehends. The school requires Ewell
children to attend school for one day only to prove that they exist, so that the school can receive
more State funding. Then the children are allowed to stay home all year. This is society refusing
to take the moral highroad and to allow these children to be victimized by a terrible father and to
continue to linger in poverty and ignorance. To reject Tom’s conviction would not only
undermine Jim Crow, but it would also implicate the entire town in Bob Ewell’s crimes against
his own children.
Entailments & the Cunninghams - ​ Entailments had to do with the government not allowing
property owners to sell their land or to easily pass their property onto heirs. In other words, they
would have to fight, and prove in court, rightful ownership. This is another example of ​The
System attempting to take something away from a family that does not have the means to fight
the system in court. If it was not for Atticus, the Cunninghams would likely lose everything…
Dolphus Raymond - ​Mr. Raymond’s entire story, and his secret, all involve strong social
commentary. His caucasian fiancee allegedly commits suicide when she learns that he dated
and loved a black woman. After her death, he continued to surround himself with black friends,
with whom he was more comfortable. He lives with a black woman, with whom he has mulatto
children. They live outside of town on his huge plantation and off of his huge wealth. To
somewhat allay people's’ concerns, he pretends to drink whiskey from a paper sack, but of
course, it’s really Coca-Cola. Think of the hypocrisy; what if the roles were reversed? What if Mr.
Raymond were poor? What if he were black and his love was white? What if he was a woman
who loved a white man?
Fear of Outsiders - ​Maycomb fits the bill as a stereotypical, backward thinking small town. It
never recovered from the ravages of the Civil War. In fact, the South is still burning here (Ms.
Maudie’s House). There is still a pervasive mob mentality that will lash out at anyone who works
outside of social norms, and outsiders like Ms. Caroline and “foot washers” are never quite
welcome here.
Select 2+ powerful quotations from the novel​ that clearly provide social commentary. Cite
them and briefly explain how… You can work them into the ideas above too.
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Include a, real-life incidents that occurred in Lee’s Old South, b
​ efore the novel was
published. Explain how this event can parallel the events of the text. Be creative. Find
new incidents or historical anecdotes other than ones that have been covered in class.
Mention another powerful ​example or two of Social Commentary through another artistic work,
book, album, painting, film that aims at inspiring social commentary and change. Provide a
summary and reflection, connecting it to Lee’s work too.
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Overall, why is social commentary a powerful device of artists throughout the
ages?