101 To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Titles & Examples
If you struggle to find “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay topics on prejudice, race, the characters’ courage, or any other issue, look no further. Our team has prepared a list of titles and essay writing tips for this book.
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🏆 Best To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics & Examples
📌 most interesting to kill a mockingbird essay titles, 👍 good to kill a mockingbird research topics, ❓ to kill a mockingbird essay questions.
Before we will talk about the do’s and don’ts in essay writing, let’s clarify the types of essay.
When working on “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay thesis, you can focus on the facts of the book or concentrate on your attitude towards its key issues and characters. According to your approach, we can divide essays into two main areas:
- Objective essay: you set out your personal thoughts on a chosen issue and provide supporting arguments and evidence;
- Subjective essay: you express your point of view on a specific topic without claiming the truth and strengthening it with facts.
For example, when you choose a “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay topics on goodness, you will state that Atticus is a kind and fearless. No doubt that this character has a positive role.
On the other hand, when you describe Mayella, you will have to choose: will you condemn her or express pity.
As for the essay content, it can be divided into many subcategories:
- Philosophical essay
- Critical essay
- Literary analysis
- Historical essay, etc.
There are also a few key literary types:
- Feature article, etc.
Do’s & Don’ts When Writing To Kill a Mockingbird Essays
Now, it’s time to talk about what you should write and what to avoid in your paper. First of all, you have to remember that all “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay titles should reveal the essence of the issue.
Recommendations for essay writing:
- Do mark your essay subject at the beginning of the text. “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay hooks will help you to catch the reader’s attention. Don’t forget to emphasize the central issue in the conclusion.
- Do support the style of presentation by your emotions, vision, and opinion. Use the “question-answer” in paragraphs. Make the transitions between paragraphs harmonious and smooth.
- Do use quotes, historical facts, and observations to argue the thesis statement, solve the main issue, and describe the key subject of the paper.
- Do stick to the central thesis of your essay. Avoid deepen into philosophical reflections — tell about concrete facts and examples. Here’s an example: don’t include the facts from the author’s biography if you focus on the events of the book and factors that affect discrimination.
- Do proofread the paper. Read carefully your essay several times and think if your readers will understand your expressions.
- Do not use specific terminology in “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay. For example, when you write about discrimination, you don’t necessarily have to provide its dictionary definition or use complex law, historical and psychological literature, and samples. Just your own language. However, it doesn’t mean that your opinion should seem ungrounded.
- Do add your emotions to the paper. Let your readers feel that you believe in your ideas when defending the essay thesis.
- Don’t choose the header before you write an essay. First, you should write an essay, and only then compile the title of your paper.
Well, now you know about the essay types, what to do, and what to avoid in your essay. Of course, you may ask: “What to write in my own essay?”
The key to success is to start. Check “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay examples on our website to get inspiration. Even the topic seems to you too complicated, start your research, and then you will be able to express new and original thoughts.
- Slavery in To Kill a Mockingbird Novel The introduction of Tom by the author is a plot device to represent the plight of the slaves in the state.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird”: Book and Movie Differences It is important to note that the film, To Kill a Mockingbird entails most of the aspects depicted in the novel.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962) by Robert Mulligan This movie presented a timely reflection of the extent of deep racial problems and social injustices existing in the southern part of the US in the early 60s.
- To Kill a Mockingbird Main Themes The main themes of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird cover both adult and children’s concerns, including the dignity of human life, the importance of truth, the rights of people to be different, the need […]
- Analysis of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird Although the innocent black man is killed while attempting to break out of prison when he might have gone free had the case proceeded to a higher court, Atticus and the town’s sheriff conjure a […]
- Nelle Harper Lee and Her Reflection in “To Kill a Mockingbird” The author perfectly reflects her life in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird as her father played an essential role in creating the story.
- Novel Appreciation: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee The contemporary discussion of this novel is often tied to the question of racism; nevertheless, I am convinced that this book can be of great interest to modern readers, and I would like to discuss […]
- Themes in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee To Kill a Mockingbird, in its imperfection, is a testament to the march of progress in social justice and racial equality.
- The Problem of Racism and Injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee In the novel, Harper Lee demonstrates her vision of the question of the social inequality with references to the problem of racism in the society based on prejudice and absence of actual principles of tolerance […]
- Moral Principles in Harper Lee’s Novel To Kill a Mockingbird Harper Lee explores a great number of themes in the first chapters of the novel, for example, integrity of a person and his/her ability contradict the norms, adopted in the community.
- The Title of Lee’s “How to Kill a Mockingbird” Book The novel’s core topic is the disappearance of innocence and the influence of bias on the lives of the novel’s characters.
- Empathy and Racism in Stockett’s The Help and Li’s To Kill a Mockingbird To start with, the first approach to racism and promoting empathy is to confront prevalent discrimination and racism, which was often shown in The Help. Another solution to racism and the possibility of promoting empathy […]
- Systemic Racism in Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” & Whitehead’s “The Nickel Boys” Racism in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird is pronounced and presented as the natural habitat of the town of Maycomb.
- Lift a Ban on “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Lee Understanding different activities have remained vital in society.”To Kill a Mockingbird” is a book that explains the problems of the United States and promotes people to be just and respect human rights.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” Drama Film The plot proves to be logical and consistent throughout the movie, motivating the audience to watch till the end of the film.
- Understanding Other Perspective: To Kill a Mockingbird The literature portrays the actual happenings in the society in an educative and corrective manner that is acceptable to both sides of the victim and perpetrator of injustices.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird”: The Novel by Harper Lee Scout does not realize the severity of many of the events of the book as they are taking place, and as such she is an innocent.
- American History in “To Kill a Mockingbird” Book & Film Racial attitudes and the dominance of white men over the black ones in the USA are the central ideas of the movie and the novel.
- Racist Trial in the Novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee For the purpose, evaluation would be made in the context of utilization of events, time and culture of the book and compare it to today’s society, culture and racial attitudes.
- Racial Prejudice in Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” Paul Lawrence Dunbar in his poem, “Sympathy” has vividly portrayed the pangs of a caged bird and likens it to the collective pain that colored people have felt like victims of racial prejudices.”And a pain […]
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” Novel by Harper Lee It is one of the main characteristics of the mockingbird includes its innocence and imitation of the songs of other birds in a loud voice.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee In consequence, the book became a model source of reading that inspired people to further take on the issues of race in the USA and throughout the world.
- American Novel: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee It is also worth to mention that the novel is indeed relevant to its readership because it mirrors the nature of society affected by racism and inequality. Through the act of inclusiveness, I am in […]
- What It Takes to Kill a Mockingbird: In Search for the Differences Between the Novel and a Movie The characters both in the novel and in the movie were often pushed to the breaking point; however, one of such moments described in the book was left out of the movie.
- Social Issues in the “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee The phrase ‘to kill a mocking bird’ stands out as a metaphor in the book To kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
- To Kill a Mockingbird: Movie Analysis Speaking of the movements which convey the essence of the film without any speech “intrusion”, it would be a good idea to drive the example of Boo Radley standing in the darker corner of the […]
- To Kill a Mockingbird The author, in the novel To Kill a Mocking Bird presents a deeper understanding in relation to events occurring in her novel. To enhance understanding of the novel, the author has widely embraced symbolism in […]
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English Works
Student’s sample essay To Kill a Mockingbird: life lessons
From which three characters in the novel do you think Jem and Scout learnt the most? Discuss with close reference to the events of the novel.
In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird , Scout and Jem Finch witness the demise of Tom Robinson who becomes the victim of cruel prejudice in the American town of Maycomb. As they grow up, and witness the racial divisions in the town, they become exposed to a range of perspectives that particularly focus on different forms of prejudice. Their father, Atticus, who defends Tom in court, has a significant impact upon the children as they realise observe his steadfast defence of his convictions. Calpurnia, the family’s domestic helper, exposes the children to the difficulties faced by the African negroes as they confront racial prejudice on a daily basis. Mr Arthur Radley, or ‘Boo’, also teaches them the dangers associated with stereotyping individuals based on hearsay. All of these mentors emphasise the importance of simple kindnesses.
Atticus Finch, the children’s father, succeeds in teaching Scout and Jem a valuable lesson about courage and moral strength. Atticus displays integrity by defending Tom Robinson. When Atticus explains why he takes the case of Tom Robinson, he says to Scout, “ If I couldn’t hold up my head in turn, I couldn’t represent this country in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again”. Atticus impresses upon the children that courage is not a man with a gun in his hand or any form of physical strength. Atticus wishes for Scout and Jem to aspire to moral courage and he shows the children that courage is to defend their principles. When Atticus shoots the dog with rabies, Lee points out that a gun should only be used as a last resort. Lee draws attention to that fact that physical strength , which is also evident whenever the feisty Scout uses her fists, is not true strength. Even when her cousin calls her father a “nigger lover”, Scout learns that she must hold her head high and must control her temper. Jem also learns that he must not respond to accusations of “nigger lover” by Mrs Dubose. To the very end, Atticus leads by example and stands “with his head high and fists down” and through this example he shows why it is a “sin to kill a mockingbird”.
Secondly, Calpurnia exposed the children to first-hand experiences of African American prejudice and to the disadvantage that they endure from the ‘socially superior’ white people. This is particularly apparent when they visit Calpurnia’s church. Scout is shocked that they don’t have hymn-books and Lee uses the lack of books as a symbol to show their Negroes’ illiterate status. Scout later asked Calpurnia why they don’t save for hymn-books and Calpurnia laughed and said, “ Wouldn’t do any good, they can’t read”. This reinforces their disconnection and exclusion from society because of their lack of education. Scout also notices that the church is bare and lacks a piano or organ. Lee uses the emptiness of the church as a symbol of the poverty-stricken situation of African Americans. It is this downtrodden status, Lee suggests, that contributes to the miscarriage of justice in Tom’s case. The jury members prosecute Tom Robinson without “one iota of medical evidence” and on the basis of two unworthy witness statements. Atticus’ stance and dedication to the case of Tom Robinson also directly challenges the bigoted views that doom the Negroes to perpetual disadvantage.
Together, Atticus and Calpurnia convey the message to the children that it is easy to abuse people who are ‘inferior’ and who lack a voice. Lee depicts the Ewells as socially disadvantaged people who have a tendency to belittle those beneath them. If Mr Ewell seems unable to change, the Negroes by contrast struggle to find work despite their best efforts. In addition, while the Negroes in the church do not have much money, they all support each other, raising $10 for Helen Robinson, with slight pressure by Reverend Sykes. This displays the close-knit community of the Negroes and how they support each other in times of need even though they do not have much to give.
Furthermore, Boo Radley’s benevolent presence teaches the children not to judge a person based on rumours and not to discriminate against the disabled. Scout and Jem’s personal experiences with Boo help them dispel the bigoted views about those with a disability. The constant and consistent acts of kindness from Boo such as folding Jem’s pants and leaving them for him on the fence, leaving them gifts in the tree hole such as chewing gum, an old watch, soap carvings and other trinkets, reveals that Boo is a very misjudged and gentle person. As Jem notes, “our biggest prize was a pocket watch that wouldn’t run, on a chain with an aluminium knife”. These gifts make the children aware that Boo is watching them affectionately. Jem shows his appreciation towards Boo and the gifts by placing a thank you letter in the tree. Boo’s brother, Mr Radley, who Calpurnia describes as the “meanest man ever God blew breath into”, fills the hole with cement, because of the ‘dying’ tree which reflects his heartless attitude. The rumour surrounding Boo as being a dangerous and horrific ghost is proved unjust when he risks his own life to save Scout and Jem from the violent clutches of Bob Ewell. Boo not only rescues them both but he also carries Jem home to be nursed back to health. Lee uses the symbolism of the mockingbird to reflect the view that it is a “sin” to kill or judge unfairly something that is innocent, harmless, and vulnerable and that brings joy to others. Both Boo and Tom Robinson can be equated with mockingbirds.
Through first-hand experiences and the guidance of significant role models such as Atticus, Calpurnia and Boo Radley, Harper Lee depicts the personal growth of both Scout and Jem. She suggests that they grow through their first-hand experience with the victims of both racial and social prejudice. These role models highlight the importance of courage, education and kindness and they encourage Scout and Jem to see past the social barriers.
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Essays About To Kill a Mockingbird: Top 5 Examples
Understand Harper Lee’s intention for the novel and successfully write essays about To Kill a Mockingbird. Here are some examples and prompts.
To Kill a Mockingbird is an iconic novel created by Harper Lee and published on July 11, 1961. It tells the story of a girl, Jean Louise “Scout” Finch, and how she absorbed her father’s lessons through events over three years. She initially struggled to understand his lessons until she had to experience them firsthand through other characters. These include their recluse neighbor Boo Radley, African-American cook Calpurnia, and her father’s client accused of rape, Tom Robinson.
To further understand why this book is a timeless classic and why it deserves to be in teachers’ lesson plans, here are five sample essays you can read:
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1. Metaphor, Foreshadowing, And Allusion In The Book To Kill A Mockingbird By Anonymous On Edubirdie.Com
2. growth in to kill a mockingbird by anonymous on samplius.com, 3. parenting in “to kill a mockingbird” by writer terra, 4. critical essays racial relations in the southern united states by anonymous on cliffsnotes.com, 5. my ‘to kill a mockingbird’ problem… and ours by zack graham, 1. to kill a mockingbird as an iconic novel, 2. literary elements in to kill a mockingbird, 3. lessons to learn from “to kill a mockingbird”, 4. why is it titled “to kill a mockingbird”, 5. what impacted the creation of to kill a mockingbird, 6. is to kill a mockingbird worth reading , 7. the characters in to kill a mockingbird, my reflection on a to kill a mockingbird movie.
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“…Harper Lee excellently uses metaphors, foreshadowing, and allusion to show the theme of coming of age. Coming of age is something that occurs in everyone’s life whether it be at a young or old age.”
The essay retells To Kill a Mockingbird’s plot to refresh its readers on the novel’s contents. The author focuses on the literary elements in the book and how they helped to develop the story’s theme.
The writer gives examples of these elements. Metaphors for Atticus asking Scout to put herself in someone else’s shoes to understand their point of view. Allusions for referring to Mockingbirds, alluding to innocent people. Foreshadowing for Atticus telling his daughter to resist the urge to fight, followed by Scout being unable to control her anger.
“Scout and Jem are both excellent examples of growth and maturity during a childhood. Jem learns what it really means to be brave, and Scout gets a true representation of the prejudice in her town.”
The piece delves into Jem’s bravery and how it changes throughout the novel. From simply touching the side of Boo Radley’s house, understanding what racism is through Tom Robinson’s trial, and coping with the attack of Bob Ewell. In the end, Jem grew up to be his sister’s savior.
It also expounds on Scout’s growth and how she learned lessons worth a lifetime in just three years. In addition, the author recounted times when Scout was narrow-minded as a kid and how the people who love her corrected her ways.
“There is a wide diversity of parenting styles in Maycomb which leads to many children behaving poorly… Atticus, Calpurnia, and Miss Maudie combine to make parental figures during the childhood of Jem and Scout.”
Terra scrutinizes the many parenting styles in To Kill a Mockingbird and examines their effects on the characters’ children. For example, she labels Bob Ewell a lousy parent, resulting in mean, stubborn, and uneducated kids. On the other hand, Scout and Jem have many parental figures they learned from, such as their father, Atticus, nanny Calpurnia, and family friend Miss Maudie.
The author relates instances in the book to prove why Atticus is a great parent and how he tried to protect them despite the hate around their town. Terra further narrates other times when Calpurnia and Miss Maudie taught Scout and Jem valuable life lessons.
“The racial concerns that Harper Lee addresses in To Kill a Mockingbird began long before her story starts and continued long after. In order to sift through the many layers of prejudice that Lee exposes in her novel, the reader needs to understand the complex history of race relations in the South.”
The writer lists relevant headlines during the time of Harper Lee’s creation of her book. The list includes Jim Crow laws that legalized racial segregation, banned interracial marriage, the Scottsboro Trials, where nine black teenage boys were falsely accused of rape, and Rosa Parks’ part in the Civil Right Movement.
“…after re-reading To Kill a Mockingbird, I can’t help but think about how the more things change, the more they stay the same. The book’s themes and dramatic tensions are anything but dated: they live on around us, appearing on the news and on social media. When you teach this book, I implore you to use it as a way of exploring what’s happening in this country to your students. “
Graham labels his essay an open letter to teachers. He shares his honesty on how he didn’t appreciate reading To Kill a Mockingbird in middle school and how the Black Lives Matter movement motivated him to re-read the book. Finally, he debates why teaching To Kill a Mockingbird to children doesn’t send them the right message.
He highlights how the heroes in the novel are white people in the characters of Atticus and Boo Radley. Next, he compels teachers to teach their students about racism, such as how white people demonize blacks. He also mentions allegories in the book that can be used to explain cybersecurity, mental disabilities, and other information teachers should give more attention to when discussing the novel. Finally, he also points out the parts of the book he finds “ugly” and infuriating.
For help with your essay, check out our round-up of best essay writing apps .
8 Prompts on Essays About To Kill a Mockingbird
Below are persuasive prompts you can use for your essay:
For this prompt, explain why To Kill a Mockingbird is considered an iconic book. What makes it different from other books? Highlight the key points that make this bestseller a famous English literature example. Then, discuss its themes and provide a summary of the plot for those who haven’t read the book.
In this essay, study the key literary elements that make this book so groundbreaking. First, talk through the literary elements Harper Lee used in this novel, such as the settings, plot, and motif. How did they make the story more digestible? Then, discuss your favorite elements within the book and expand on the points made.
Atticus shares four lessons with his children in the book. Briefly summarize these lessons and share how you understand them. Then, give your opinion on whether they are good or bad advice and include your relevant experience connected to these lessons.
Explain to your readers why the novel is titled as such. Include what you thought of Harper Lee’s title, are there any other title you think better fits the book? For example, you may think the title should be: Atticus’ Four Lessons because the book revolves around his four core messages.
Many events inspired Harper Lee during her time. For example, explain how Rosa Parks’ bus incident and the murder of Emmett Till affected the book’s plot. Then, to give you an idea, you can create a timeline of these events and add their possible impact on Harper Lee.
To Kill a Mockingbird was praised back when it was first published in 1960, but some comment that it has a one-dimensional view of racism. For this essay, share your thoughts and your stance on this debate. Also, include what you felt during and after you read the book and why you would or would not recommend it to others.
Discuss the characters in the story — Scout, Jem, Atticus, Boo Radley, Bob Ewell, Tom Robinson, etc. Include why their parts are relevant in the novel. For example, if you pick Scout, share how her father’s lessons guided her through the book.
To Kill a Mockingbird Movie was directed by Robert Mulligan and released in 1962. Highlight the elements that you think the movie managed to convey well. You can also point out what the movie missed.
If you are interested in learning more, see our essay writing tips .
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Everything You Need to Know About Analysing ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ for English | Summary, Context, Themes & Characters
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One of the classics of American literature, ‘ To Kill a Mockingbird’ has been assigned to you for your English class and you need to conduct an essay analysis. Whether you’re looking for a summary of the themes in To Kill a Mockingbird or a quick refresher of the key characters or context, we’ve got you!
You’ll also be able to download a copy of our analysed textual examples, as well as a sample paragraph so you can ace your tasks.
Let’s take a look together!
To Kill a Mockingbird Summary Key Characters in To Kill a Mockingbird Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird Context Themes Explored in To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Analysis of To Kill a Mockingbird
Summary of To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel that centres around the Finch family and is told through the perspective of Jean (nicknamed Scout), within the town of Maycomb, Alabama. Atticus, Jean’s father, is a prominent lawyer and the family lives relatively comfortably despite the impacts of the Great Depression.
![example essays on to kill a mockingbird Alabama Monroe Country Courthouse - Inspired Setting for Maycomb in To Kill a Mockingbird](https://artofsmart.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Alabama-Monroe-Country-Courthouse-Inspired-Setting-for-Maycomb-in-To-Kill-a-Mockingbird.jpeg)
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Scout, her brother Jem and their friend Dill spend the summer together where Dill eventually becomes fascinated by the Radley’s house where Boo Radley, a mysterious and ghostly figure that is the topic of much speculation and stories for the children of Maycomb .
Scout and Jem find gifts in the knothole of a tree on the Radley property, but Nathan Radley chases the children off the property and eventually seals up the knothole. When a fire breaks out, Jem tells Atticus that Boo is caused it.
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The climax of the novel arrives when Atticus agrees to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man who has been accused of raping a white woman. As a result, Scout and Jem get bullied by other children in their conservative, racist town.
At a pivotal moment, Mrs Dubose, the neighbour of the Finch family, harasses the children and Jem lashes out by destroying her garden.
As punishment, Atticus tells Jem to read to Mrs Dubose every day, explaining to the children that she is addicted to morphine and trying to overcome her addiction. Thus, despite the children’s initial indignation, Atticus teaches them an important lesson in empathy and perspective.
When Tom Robinson’s trial begins, he is held in the local courthouse where a group of people gather planning to lynch him. Atticus confronts the group the night before the trial, where Jem and Scout sneak out of the house to join him.
Recognising one of the men, Scout gently asks him how his son is doing, unknowingly shaming him and causing the group the disperse.
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At the trial, the siblings choose to sit with the town’s Black citizens as Atticus presents clear evidence that Mayella and Bob Ewell are lying about the rape.
Atticus demonstrates that the injuries on Mayella’s face are wounds from Bob when he found her with Tom. However, despite the convincing evidence indicating Tom’s innocence, the all-white jury convicts him.
Tom is killed later on when he tries to escape prison. Additionally, despite his success at the trial, Bob Ewell feels that he has been made a fool and takes revenge.
First, he harasses Tom’s widow before finally attacking Jem and Scout as they walk home from a party. However, the children are saved by Boo Radley who fatally stabs Ewell during the struggle.
Boo carries an injured Jem home and Atticus insists that Ewell tripped over a tree root and fell on his knife to protect Boo. The novel ends with Scout walking Boo home and reflecting on the events of the novel and the complexities of humanity.
Key Characters in To Kill a Mockingbird
Jean Louise ‘Scout’ Finch Jean Louise ‘Scout’ Finch is the main character and we first met her when she is 6 years old, although it is narrated by an older Scout who is reflecting and looking back on her life. Through her, we learn about the town, her family and what it was like to live in the early 1930s during the Great Depression and the racial tensions that existed during that time.
Atticus Finch Atticus Finch is a single father in To Kill a Mockingbird who is appointed as the defence lawyer for a Black man who is accused of raping a White woman. Throughout the novel, Atticus teaches the children about empathy and how to view situations from different people’s perspectives instead of judging them harshly.
Jem Finch Jem Finch is Scout’s older brother who looks up to their father a lot. As an older brother, Jem accompanies Scout for a lot of her adventures and it is evident that the two are close. Being older, we watch Jem mature and often understand issues that Scout still does not.
Tom Robinson Tom Robinson is the Black man who Atticus defends during the rape trial. During the trial, there is compelling evidence that Tom is innocent and that the Ewells falsely accused him of rape. Despite this, Tom Robinson is found guilty due to the jury’s racial prejudice.
Boo Radley Arthur ‘Boo’ Radley is the Finch’s mysterious neighbour which the children in the town often speculate and make up scary stories about him. While he was a teenager, Boo was part of a gang of boys who caused trouble in Maycomb by drinking and gambling. As a result of this, he was locked in his home for many years and not allowed out. However, he has a soft spot for the children, leaving them gifts in the knothole of a tree and saving Jem when he is attacked by Bob Ewell.
Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird
Mockingbird In “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the symbolic significance of the mockingbird resonates deeply. It represents innocence and goodness . Atticus Finch’s advice to his children, Scout and Jem, to never harm a mockingbird metaphorically extends beyond the bird itself. The innocent characters like Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are likened to mockingbirds, as they bring no harm but are subjected to cruelty and injustice due to societal prejudices .
The Radley Place The ominous Radley house and its reclusive occupants, particularly Boo Radley, symbolise the fear of the unknown . The town’s gossip and myths surrounding the Radleys serve as a reflection of the community’s prejudiced attitudes. Boo Radley, initially feared and misunderstood, eventually becomes a symbol of compassion and kindness, challenging the town’s preconceived notions.
These symbols intricately weave into the narrative, adding layers of depth to the novel’s themes of innocence, prejudice, empathy, and the complexities of morality and human behavior.
To Kill a Mockingbird is set in Alabama during the 1930s, allowing Harper Lee to explore the impact of racism and the Great Depression on people. While slavery had been abolished in 1890, most White Americans continued to hold racial prejudices against them.
Segregation laws meant that Black people were separated from White people. This is reflected in Maycomb where they live in a separate part of town and even sit in a separate area during Tom Robinson’s trial.
![example essays on to kill a mockingbird Characters from To Kill a Mockingbird](https://artofsmart.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Characters-from-To-Kill-a-Mockingbird-1024x647.png)
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Additionally, Lee demonstrates the racism in America during this time through the town’s response to Atticus agreeing to defend Tom and his subsequent trial. From the children being harassed, the attempted lynching of Tom and finally being found guilty by the jury despite overwhelming proof of his innocence, the novel demonstrates how racism affected Black people in all aspects of their lives during this time.
While the novel was set in the 1930s, Lee wrote it during the 1960s when the Civil Rights Movement was happening . The legal system continued to be discriminatory towards Black people, thus many of the racial themes that Lee explores in the novel would easily be recognisable to the public when the book was published.
The continued relevance of To Kill a Mockingbird during the 21st century can still be seen in the Black Lives Matter movement in America and ongoing racial injustices.
![example essays on to kill a mockingbird Martin Luther King Jr giving a speech](https://artofsmart.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Martin-Luther-King-Jr-giving-a-speech-1024x702.jpeg)
Image sourced from Minnesota Historical Society
Themes Explored in To Kill a Mockingbird
As you read through To Kill a Mockingbird, you will encounter themes such as:
- Empathy and courage
- Loss of innocence
The Complexities of Humanity
To Kill a Mockingbird explores the complexities of humanity and how both good and evil can exist at the same time within people. Told through the perspective of Scout between the ages of 6-9, readers are offered an opportunity to watch Scout mature while also learning alongside her.
Social Prejudice
Themes of social prejudice are also strong within the novel, featuring various social outcasts from Mrs Dubose who is a morphine addict, Boo Radley and the Black citizens of Maycomb.
Through these characters, Lee is able to explore the different prejudices society often holds and encourages us to be empathetic to people we may think of as unpleasant or weird due to their differences or behaviours. Instead, we are encouraged to see a different point of view and “climb into his skin and walk around in it”.
The Enduring Relevance of the Text
While To Kill a Mockingbird was set in the 1930s and written in the 1960s, many of the themes continue to remain relevant more than 50 years later. It is likely that your English classes will ask you to consider why we continue to study this book and what it teaches us about social prejudices.
While segregation may be a thing of the past, themes like racism’s impact on the justice system can still be seen in movements like Black Lives Matter. Additionally, while the book deals with racism specifically, social prejudices like how we interact with people from different backgrounds, those with a disability or LGBTQ+ people can also be examined through this book.
Events to Keep in Mind
While Tom Robinson’s case is the climax of the novel, there are various characters and events that you should keep a lookout for as well!
From the children going to the Black church, their interactions with Mrs Dubose and Boo Radley — there are various events where the children build empathy and challenge their own opinions of other citizens in the town , providing an opportunity for the readers to learn alongside them too.
How to Analyse To Kill a Mockingbird in 3 Steps
Usually, when students try to write their essay for To Kill a Mockingbird, or any other text, they’ll try to work on their thesis first when responding to an essay question — however, we recommend starting with your analysis!
Doing this will allow you to expand your knowledge of the text before thoroughly answering anything about it. Once you’ve analysed your text, then you can draw ideas from it and properly build your thesis.
We’re going to walk you through writing up an essay analysis for To Kill a Mockingbird in three simple steps!
Step 1: Choose your example
When picking an example ensure that you are able to identify a technique in the text.
Here, we have chosen to look at Atticus’s statement to the Court and jury at Tom Robinson’s trial:
“We know all men are not created equal in the sense some people would have us believe – some people are smarter than others, some people have more opportunity because they’re born with it, some men make more money than others, some ladies make better cakes than others… But there is one way in this country in which all men have been created equal… That institution, gentlemen, is a court.”
This is quite a long quote from To Kill a Mockingbird, so remember when you’re actually writing up your analysis for your essay, you don’t actually need to include the complete quote — just excerpts.
We’ve got a list of 50 quotes that you should check out from To Kill a Mockingbird!
Step 2: Identify your technique(s)
Ensure that the technique you choose for your quote supports your analysis or helps you to build your argument.
To enhance your response, you want to discuss techniques that have a lot more depth — you should keep an eye out for any literary techniques such as metaphors, similes and motifs!
For the above quote, there is repetition, cumulative listing, inclusive language and allusion.
Step 3: Write the analysis
When writing the analysis, focus on the effect of the technique and how it supports your argument. In this case, we are going to analyse how the quote addresses the theme of racial prejudices.
The opening of “we know all men are not created equal” subverts the American declaration of independence , as Atticus utilises cumulative listing to demonstrate all the ways in which men and women are not equal.
However, he also reminds the jury during this trial that the law is a “way in this country in which all men have been created equal”, alluding to the American Declaration of Independence and the core values of the nation . Analysis for this quote may look like:
Atticus, aware that the jury is likely to find Tom Robinson guilty despite strong evidence of his innocence due to the racial prejudices the White jury is likely to hold tries to challenge this t hrough the inclusive language of in “we know all men are not created equal”, Atticus presents the jury and the defence as being on the same side. Furthermore, the allusion to the core American values when he states “in this country there is one way all men have been created equal”, creates an appeal to both the jury’s sense of justice and core American values.
Need to write a Feature Article on ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’? Look no further than this incredible in-depth guide to help you ace your writing!
Need some help analysing other texts?
Check out other texts we’ve created guides for below:
- All the Light We Cannot See
- Lord of the Flies
- The Meursault Investigation
- In Cold Blood
- Pride and Prejudice
- Jasper Jones
- Romeo and Juliet
Read also: how to write a feature article for English !
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Tiffany Fong is currently completing a double degree in Media and Communications with Law at Macquarie University. She currently contributes to the university zine, Grapeshot where she enjoys writing feature articles, commentary on current affairs or whatever weird interest that has taken over her mind during that month. During her spare time, Tiffany enjoys reading, writing, taking care of her plants or cuddling with her two dogs.
- Topics: ✍️ Learn , ✏️ English
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35 To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics
Harper Lee’s classic American novel To Kill a Mockingbird is among the most taught books in American literature. The story of young Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus–as told through the eyes of Scout–is one that has captivated readers for generations.
With the reading of the novel also comes an assortment of assignments that require students to analyze and interpret the text. One such assignment is the To Kill a Mockingbird essay.
While understanding the book’s content can be a challenge in and of itself, crafting a well-written essay on the subject can be even more so. However, we’ve created a handy guide detailing everything you need to know about writing a To Kill a Mockingbird essay, including tips on structure and 35 essay topic ideas.
How to Write the Essay
To Kill A Mockingbird essays can be written in many different writing styles depending on the essay prompt and the teacher’s individual preferences. However, there are a few key things that every To Kill A Mockingbird essay should have. Let’s take a look at what those are.
A Strong Thesis Statement
A strong thesis statement is the most crucial element of a good To Kill A Mockingbird essay. This statement is what your entire essay will be based around and should be narrow in focus. Depending on whether your essay is an argumentative, persuasive, comparative statement, or literary analysis essay, your thesis will take on a different form.
An Argumentative Thesis Statement
If you’re writing an argumentative essay, your thesis statement should take a clear position on the issue at hand. For example, if you’re writing about whether or not Atticus Finch is a good father, your thesis statement might look something like this:
“Atticus Finch is a good father because he is patient, teaches his children to be moral people, and is always there for them when they need him.”
A Persuasive Thesis Statement
If you’re writing a persuasive essay, your thesis statement will take on a slightly different form. Instead of simply stating your position, you’ll also need to provide evidence from the text to support your claim. So, for example, if you’re writing about whether or not Atticus Finch is a good father, your thesis statement might look something like this:
“Atticus Finch is a good father because he is patient, teaches his children to be moral people, and is always there for them when they need him. This is evident in how he deals with Scout’s defiance, helps Jem come to terms with Boo Radley, and stands up for Tom Robinson in court.”
A Comparative Thesis Statement
If you’re writing a comparative essay, your thesis statement will need to compare and contrast two or more characters, themes, or elements from the text. For example, if you’re comparing and contrasting the characters of Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell, your thesis statement might look something like this:
“Though both Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell are fathers, they couldn’t be more different in the way they raise their children. Atticus Finch is a patient and level-headed father who instils morality in his children, while Bob Ewell is an abusive and alcoholic father who does nothing but harm his daughter.”
A Literary Analysis Thesis Statement
In this type of essay, you’ll be asked to analyze the themes, symbols, or other literary devices used in the text. So, for example, if you’re writing about the theme of racism in To Kill A Mockingbird, your thesis statement might look something like this:
“The theme of racism is evident in To Kill A Mockingbird through the characters of Tom Robinson, Calpurnia, and Atticus Finch.”
In each of these examples, you’ll notice that the thesis statement is clear, concise, and takes a position on the issue at hand. This is exactly what your thesis statement should do as well.
The Body Paragraphs
Once you have a thesis statement, you can begin to write the body paragraphs of your essay. In each body paragraph, you’ll need to include a topic sentence, supporting evidence from the text, and your own analysis.
The topic sentence is the first sentence of the paragraph and introduces the main idea that will be discussed in the paragraph. The supporting evidence can be quotes, events, or other information from the text that backs up your main idea. And finally, your analysis is your interpretation of the evidence and how it supports your main idea.
For example, if you’re writing about Atticus Finch as a good father, your first body paragraph might look something like this:
Paragraph 1:
- Topic sentence: Atticus is a good father because he is patient.
- Supporting evidence: “Atticus was making a feeble attempt to comfort her, but his hands were shaking as badly as hers.” (Lee 94)
- Analysis: This quote shows that even when Scout is misbehaving, Atticus remains calm and patient with her.
With each new paragraph, you’ll need to include a new topic sentence and supporting evidence.
The Conclusion
The conclusion of your essay is where you’ll need to tie everything together and leave your reader with a clear understanding of your position. To do this, you’ll need to restate your thesis statement and main points from the body of your essay.
You’ll also want to leave the reader with something to think about. Maybe offer a new perspective on the text, or suggest how the themes of the text apply to real life.
For example, your conclusion might look something like this:
“Though Atticus Finch is a fictional character, he serves as an excellent role model for fathers everywhere. His patience, morality, and courage are qualities that all fathers should strive to possess.”
35 To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics
Sometimes the most challenging part of essay writing is coming up with a topic. That is where this list of To Kill A Mockingbird essay topics will come in handy.
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Racism
- The racist attitudes of the people in Maycomb County
- The impact of racism on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- The trial of Tom Robinson and its role in exploring the issue of racism
- Atticus Finch’s views on race and how they change throughout the novel
- How racism affects the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Family
- The different types of families represented in To Kill A Mockingbird
- The role of family in shaping the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch as a father figure
- The impact of Scout’s family on her development
- How the absence of a mother figure affects the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Courage
- The definition of courage and how it applies to the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch as a model of courage
- Mrs Dubose as an example of courage
- How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird define and demonstrate courage
- The impact of cowardice on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Morality
- The moral development of the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch as a moral compass for his children
- The importance of morality in To Kill A Mockingbird
- How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with moral dilemmas
- The impact of immorality on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Prejudice
- The different types of prejudice represented in To Kill A Mockingbird
- The role of prejudice in shaping the events of the novel
- How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with prejudice
- The impact of prejudice on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch’s views on prejudice and how they change throughout the novel
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Injustice
- The injustice of the trial of Tom Robinson
- The role of injustice in To Kill A Mockingbird
- How do the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with injustice
- The impact of injustice on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch’s views on justice and how they change throughout the novel
To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics About Gender
- The role of gender in To Kill A Mockingbird
- How characters in To Kill A Mockingbird are impaired or helped by gender roles
- The impact of gender roles on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
- Atticus Finch’s views on gender and how they change throughout the novel
- The significance of Scout’s development as a tomboy
With any of these 35 To Kill A Mockingbird essay topics, you will have a pretty easy time coming up with an excellent essay. Remember to create a strong thesis and use the guide above when writing your To Kill A Mockingbird essay body and conclusion.
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To Kill A Mockingbird - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free
To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel by Harper Lee that deals with racial injustice and moral growth in the American South. Essays could explore its themes, character analyses, literary significance, and the societal reactions it provoked upon its release. Discussions might also delve into its relevance in contemporary conversations about race, justice, and morality. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about To Kill A Mockingbird you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.
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To Kill a Mockingbird: Themes of Courage and Heroism
In the Novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, there are several themes that are shown; however, one of the most exceedingly valued is courage. Courage is shown by assuredly every character in this book, but just a few examples are Boo Radley, Scout Finch, and Atticus Finch. In the novel, Boo Radley showed a plethora of courage and heroism. In one situation Boo saved Scout and Jem from Bob Ewell, who assailed them while they were on their […]
Prejudice in to Kill a Mockingbird
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Tolerance in to Kill a Mockingbird
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Symbolism in to Kill a Mockingbird
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What is the Symbolic Meaning of Mockingbirds?
The book To Kill a Mockingbird was written by Harper Lee in the year 1960. When people have no laws to follow, mass corruption and chaos run wild. In the book, To Kill a Mockingbird, the law is a major theme in the book. It shows how lawlessness can determine the life and future of the felons. Muddle and distress are what is created when you have no laws. Therefore, laws are established to keep peace and structure. Laws are […]
Character Development in to Kill a Mockingbird
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Victim Blaming and to Kill a Mockingbird
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To Kill a Mockingbird Racism
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How is Bravery Shown in to Kill a Mockingbird?
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Examples of Stereotyping in to Kill a Mockingbird
While racism is the most common form of discrimination in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, there are many more forms of injustices in the book. From the beginning of the book, we read sly remarks about Scout's blatant tomboyish nature, from her brother Jem. Later, however, we hear the white citizens of Maycomb county use very offensive racial slurs towards the African American citizens; but racial slurs aside, the other forms of disrespect that most of the whites show […]
Life Lessons in to Kill a Mockingbird
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Powers Granted by Exclusion
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"Our generation has had no Great war, no Great Depression. Out war is spiritual. Our depression is our lives" (Chuck Palahniuk). Discrimination was most common in the 1930's and was performed by prejudice people against others. In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, discrimination is one of the main conflicts in the story. Till this day, people still face discrimination and injustice. Throughout the novel, sexism, classism, and racism are prominent in the lives of the characters. […]
Power in to Kill a Mockingbird
Claim: In To Kill a Mockingbird, Miss Maudie and Atticus teach Scout and Jem lessons of power and true courage, ultimately to help them overcome the social norm of what courage is, and to understand the power divided by race. Scout is spending the summer with Dill and Jem, but Dill and Jem become closer and they begin to leave her out of their plans. Hurt, Scout decides to spend her summer with Miss. Maudie, one of her friendly neighbors. […]
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“To Kill A Mockingbird” is a book that takes many turns which makes it not easy to put down. It is set in Maycomb, Alabama around the time where slavery still existed. The story is focused around a trial where Atticus Finch has chosen to defend a black man named Tom Robinson. When read at the present time it is not felt as a big deal but at the time it was more than a big deal. It was something […]
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The novel “To Kill A Mockingbird” is a book that takes many turns which makes it not easy to put down. The story is told by Scout Finch who is the daughter of the main character, Atticus Finch. The story is focused around a trial where Atticus Finch has to defend Tom Robinson. Tom Robinson is a man being accused of raping women. In Maycomb, Alabama at the time, racism was a problem. The color of Tom’s skin is what […]
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Literary works often reflect on society and its traditions, hoping that the readers realize the lessons and messages that are trying to be portrayed. Critical theories are reflective assessments and critiques of society and culture by applying knowledge, and the messages presented into our lives. Reader Response theory, Deconstruction theory, and Ethical theory are forms to uncover the meanings of a text, each in its own unique way which aids the reader to have an improved understanding of the messages. […]
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I have watched the movie “To Kill a Mockingbird”, there are a few fallacies that I managed to find in the movie, which are attacking the motive and two wrongs make a right and inappropriate appeal to authority. First and foremost, the first fallacy is attacking the motive that appeared in the movie, where all the people insist that Tom Robinson had raped Mayella Ewell. While Mayella was suing Tom by rapping her, Mr Ewell stopped Atticus outside the court and […]
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For centuries, there was always the mindset that men are superior to women. They were known to know more, do more and be the primary figure in all circumstances. Gender equality was not a widely known and controversial topic until the early 2000’s. Even with movements popping up, gender inequality still persisted. Females were expected to do ‘lady like things’; these things include: staying at home to clean, wear dresses and stay out of trouble. In the book To Kill […]
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Mayella Violet Ewell, a 19 ½-year-old girl, made one of the most widely known accusations in Maycomb. She accused a black man, Tom Robinson, of raping her. Mayella first appears in chapter 17 of Harper Lee’s book, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” when Tom Robinson’s trial occurs. She pours out a sob story to the court about Tom following her into the house, jumping on her, and raping her innocent self. Throughout her questioning in chapter 18, Mayella is depicted as […]
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Scout Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
Sometimes when people discriminate against one thing, they’re still open to another. In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, this issue is expressed all throughout the story. For the time and place “To Kill a Mockingbird” takes place in, there was some way people would find a difference of another person and compare it to themselves. Examples of discrimination were racism and sexism; consequently, Scout learned multiple lessons from discrimination. Discrimination will alter someone’s life in ways of humiliation and […]
Originally published : | July 11, 1960 |
Author : | Harper Lee |
Pages : | 281 |
Genre : | Southern Gothic; Bildungsroman |
Characters : | Atticus Finch, Boo Radley, Jean Louise 'Scout' Finch |
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How To Write an Essay About To Kill A Mockingbird
Introduction to harper lee's to kill a mockingbird.
"To Kill A Mockingbird," a novel by Harper Lee, is a profound work that explores themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and the loss of innocence in the Deep South during the 1930s. Begin your essay by introducing the setting of Maycomb, Alabama, and the central characters: Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus Finch. Outline the novel’s primary themes and the significance of its title. This introduction should provide a brief yet comprehensive overview, setting the stage for a deeper analysis of the novel's complex themes and character dynamics.
Analyzing Central Themes and Characters
The body of your essay should delve into the critical themes of "To Kill A Mockingbird." Explore the theme of racial injustice, as seen in the trial of Tom Robinson, and discuss how this reflects the broader societal prejudices of the time. Another key theme is the moral development of Scout and Jem as they navigate a world of complex ethical choices and learn from their father's example of integrity. Discuss the character of Atticus Finch as a moral compass of the novel and a symbol of decency and justice. Use specific examples from the text to illustrate how these themes are developed through the narrative and character interactions. Each paragraph should focus on a specific theme or character analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of Lee's narrative.
The Novel's Social and Historical Context
In this part of the essay, place "To Kill A Mockingbird" within its broader social and historical context. Discuss the significance of the novel being set in the Great Depression and its reflection of the racial tensions in the American South during that period. Additionally, consider the impact of this novel when it was published in 1960, at the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement, and its continued relevance in contemporary discussions about race and justice. This contextual analysis will enrich your essay, demonstrating the novel's enduring significance as both a product of its time and a timeless commentary on human behavior and societal issues.
Concluding Reflections
Conclude your essay by summarizing the key points and reiterating the novel's significance in American literature. Reflect on the lessons that "To Kill A Mockingbird" imparts about empathy, understanding, and moral courage. Consider the novel's impact on readers and its contribution to ongoing conversations about racial injustice and moral integrity. A strong conclusion will not only encapsulate your analysis but also underscore the novel's relevance to modern readers, encouraging them to reflect on its themes in the context of today's world.
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Home ➔ Free Essay Examples ➔ To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Themes and Sample
To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Themes and Sample
To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee (and sometimes shortened to TKAM), appeared on the shelves of bookstores in 1960, and instantly became a classic of American literature. That’s why writing essays about it is a common task that students of many schools receive.
Below, we will take a look at three major themes (or motifs) that you can explore in your paper. You will also find a Mockingbird essay sample that should give you a clearer idea about this assignment.
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On to the Themes in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
Harper Lee’s novel shows us our past and lets us see how the situation has changed since that time. The story is written from the perspective of a child who becomes a witness to a collapse of morals. She sees how human lives are unfairly and thoughtlessly ruined due to set social standards. She lives through it at such a young age but doesn’t lose hope for good to come and change things for the better.
To Kill a Mockingbird explores the darker side of the human being, but as it is narrated by a little girl named Scout, it gives hope for the better. Perhaps this hopeful tone attracts more and more readers and makes it one of the most influential books in American culture.
In To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee demonstrates what it was like to be white and black men in the pre-Civil Rights Movement era. Thus, modern readers can see how American society has revolutionized and changed their opinions and attitude towards those who look differently.
The plot of the book takes place in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the early 1930s, the years of the Great Depression.
The whole story is narrated by a little girl Scout, Jean Louise Finch, who ages from 6 to 9 years old. Her widowed father, Atticus Finch, is a lawyer who also raises Scout’s older brother Jem — Jeremy Finch. Jem, Scout, and their friend Dill Harris are curious about the life of Arthur “Boo” Radley, who lives nearby and never leaves his house. Kids, under the impression of scary stories about Boo, think he is a monster.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the most popular themes that students write about in their TKAM essays.
Racism as the Major Theme
When writing a To Kill a Mockingbird essay, you have plenty of topics to choose from, but racism is one of the most prevailing TKAM themes that is written about.
In her novel, Harper Lee shows a society that is staggeringly unfair towards African Americans. To Kill Mockingbird stereotypes are all about racism and inequality in the American South. In the 1930s, black people were still enslaved. They were not allowed to co-exist with whites on equal footing.
Several characters become victims of racism: Calpurnia, Tom Robinson and his family, and also Scout (the white girl was accused of being a “nigger-lover”).
When Tom Robinson, a black man and one of the Maycomb’s residents, is accused of raping a white girl, Atticus decides to take on his case even despite the Maycomb county community disfavor. Although Tom is innocent and Atticus provides evidence that a young girl named Mayella Ewell was attacked by her father, Bob Ewell, Tom is convicted. The only substantial evidence standing against Tom is the color of his skin, and the jury found him guilty. Later, Tom was killed during the attempt to escape custody.
Harper Lee tells this story to show how prejudice ruins lives and describes his death as “the senseless slaughter of songbirds.”
Racism is expressed in many other ways in the novel. White and black people live in different areas of the town; they are physically separated in the courtroom.
Throughout the novel, Scout reveals that white and black people are not equal. Scout and Jem were not allowed to give a visit to their black cook and housekeeper, Calpurnia, by Aunt Alexandra. Scout and Dill talk to Mr. Raymond, a white man who married a black woman and now pretends to be an alcoholic just to find an excuse for that.
Without any doubt, the To Kill Mockingbird theme of racism in the United States is the backbone of the novel and is discussed in essays the most. However, that might be why you should look for something else to cover.
Analysis of Kids’ Protest Against Social Pressure
The novel is also about the maturation of kids in an adult world and their protest against bias. Jem and Scout Finch take the road from innocence and blind faith in the community norms to knowledge and their own believes through valuable life lessons. Firstly, they judged people trusting communal bias towards people. Later, as they face the harsh realities of life, they change their minds. As Bob Ewell attempted to kill kids with the knife, Boo Radley, the person they thought was a monster, protected them from the assault. In such a way, they realized that he was a pure soul, even though the community had a different point of view.
Also, Harper Lee portrays Scout as a tomboy rather than a “proper Southern lady.” She is outraged by the attempts to alter her behavior to fit the social norms. In the 1930s, women were not given the same rights as men. They had to be graceful and delicate, and that’s precisely what Scout abhors. The girl loves to run around, jump, and play with boys rather than with girls. She often gets into fights and shows no interest in dolls, dresses, and other girlish things. For Scout, to adopt the social norms of being a lady means to replace the things she likes with what others expect her to do. And she is not ready to sacrifice her freedom.
Good and Evil
The conflict between good and evil is also a central theme in the novel that you can cover in your To Kill a Mockingbird essay . Atticus says that all people have these two sides, but usually, good prevails. He teaches it to his children and shares his wisdom with society when he was proving Tom Robinson’s innocence. Although racism is deeply rooted in people’s minds and hearts, he keeps trying to change the way the community treats colored citizens. He believes one day, white and black men will be equal.
As Scout narrates the story, we observe how kids change their minds towards good and evil, judging by the actions of people around them. From the very beginning, they believe all people are inherently good, and they stick to the beliefs of their father. During the trial over Tom Robinson, children are shocked. When the jury convicts an innocent black man, the faith in the good side of all humans shatters. Understanding that the evil is closer than she expected and the disappointment in what she believed to be the universal truth makes her feel great pain. Scout also keeps on thinking about racism, inequality, and unfairness but doesn’t lose hope in humanity’s goodness.
At the end of the novel, Jem and Scout are attacked by real evil, Bob Ewell. But they are saved by goodness, Bob Radley, and their faith has been returned.
To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel about courage and hope, portraying a society that is weak, unfair, and cruel. Racism and inequality are treated as a norm, and only a few people have the strength to fight against social bias. However, it suggests that you will never really understand a person until you are in their shoes. And doing something small to make the world a better place for everyone, despite race, gender, or any other trait, is worthwhile and deserves respect and admiration.
Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird — Essay Sample
Nelle Harper Lee effectively utilizes symbolism to illustrate abstract constructs, in her publication “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Accordingly, she uses the portrayal of typical life situations to suggest the underlying social concerns (“Symbolism”). Innocence, vulnerability, good, evil, and mystical ideas are thus articulated within realistic scenes through the facilitation of various characters that the author introduces to the readers.
The use of a mockingbird in the title is symbolic. Scout, in one of the interactions with Miss Maudie, learns that killing a mockingbird is sinful. The justification for sin, in this case, is that the birds are of value to humanity on account of their hearty singing. The author, therefore, presents a mockingbird as an embodiment of that which is good for humanity. Accordingly, the title of the publication is symbolic of its plot, where there is constant strife as evil forces seek to dominate at the expense of virtue and well-being.
Jem and Scout are depicted within the realm of vulnerability typically associated with children. Such a depiction of these characters is symbolic of innocence and fragility. The uncertainties related to their vulnerability illuminates the manipulative tendencies in a typical society where the least privileged members are prone to further ill-treatment by the powerful (Aderibigbe 1). Jem and Scout’s helplessness in certain situations also symbolizes the aggression and ruthlessness that harmful practices such as racism had fostered in Maycomb, to the disadvantage of a section of its members.
Boo Radley is symbolic of mystic ideas and superstitions harbored by this society. He is depictive of presumptions that people mistakenly embrace, which denies them the opportunity to experience the good in fellow humans and even situations (Thompson). However, in due course, the positive experiences that characterized Boo’s interaction with Scout and Jem yield a different orientation. The new light within which these children start to perceive Boo is symbolic of a transition from childhood innocence to the attainment of a sound, objective, and authentic moral perspective. Accordingly, as these children grow up, their personal experiences shape their sense of reality and their attitudes; hence they gradually discard some of the ideals that had been reinforced in them in early childhood.
Miss Maudie’s attitude is symbolic of strength and resilience in difficult circumstances. Even in the most unfortunate instance where her house is burnt down, she is calm and stable (Lee 39). Miss Maudie also refers to her gender as grounds for intimidation by the foot-washers. As such, she symbolizes the quest for gender equity, where she illustrates that considering women as inferior, in any given front, is a mistaken construct.
The disparity in class and status, coupled with a sense of social inequity, is symbolized by three families depicted by the author. These families are the Finches, Ewells, and Cunninghams. The Cunninghams are lowly within the society, whereas the Finches are rather wealthy. The Ewells, on the other hand, are an average family. The author’s depiction of such a community structure is symbolic of the social hierarchy, which defines the standards of living for each social class. The social hierarchy also influences the dispensation of public goods such as justice and opportunities, where often the systems in place work in favor of the rich while compromising on the good of the poor.
The author indeed elicits a rather vivid and realistic image of a typical society through symbolic illustrations. As such, strategic use of the literary style facilitates a smooth inclusion of subjects that are actually not featured in the publication. Equally, as the plot unfolds, the reader is empowered to deconstruct the associated connotations within this story.
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- Aderibigbe, M. O. “Socio-Economic Inequalities, the Less Privileged and the Quest for Social Justice in Africa.” Canadian Social Science , vol. 14, no. 5, 26 May 2018, p. 1.
- Lee, H. (1970). To Kill a Mockingbird . Woodstock, IL: Dramatic Publishing.
- “Symbolism.” Literary Devices, 3 Sept. 2017, literarydevices.net/symbolism/.
- Thompson, Brian. “Wrong Perceptions Are the Cause of All Afflictions — Zen Thinking.” Zen Thinking , 7 Aug. 2016, www.zenthinking.net/blog/wrong-perceptions-are-the-cause-of-all-afflictions.
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Works Cited
- Davidson, Jen. “Literary Theory PC.” Google Slides, Google, 12 Oct. 2020, docs.google.com/presentation/d/1wjCG6jYpk3LLH2BNCR1FOtmjll0r3A2Vgji0SFdzaUw/edit.
- Mackenzie. “Being Black in a World Where White Lies Matter.” The Undefeated, The Undefeated, 30 Jan. 2017, theundefeated.com/features/being-black-in-a-world-where-white-lies-matter/.
- “The Law and the Code in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.” Southern Cultures, 12 May 2020, www.southerncultures.org/article/law-code-harper-lees-kill-mockingbird/.
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To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel that centres around the Finch family and is told through the perspective of Jean (nicknamed Scout), within the town of Maycomb, Alabama. Atticus, Jean's father, is a prominent lawyer and the family lives relatively comfortably despite the impacts of the Great Depression. Image sourced from Wikimedia Commons.
To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Racism. The racist attitudes of the people in Maycomb County. The impact of racism on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird. The trial of Tom Robinson and its role in exploring the issue of racism. Atticus Finch's views on race and how they change throughout the novel.
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The novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is a classic piece of literature that explores themes of prejudice, racism, and the loss of innocence in the American South during the 1930s. The novel's protagonist, Scout Finch, narrates her experiences growing up in the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama, as her father, Atticus Finch ...