To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee

2732 Words6 Pages

To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, portrays an influential period of the protagonist, Jean Louise “Scout” Finch’s life. Narrated from the perspective of Scout as an adult, she writes about her experiences between the ages of six and nine and how she reaches maturity through various, momentous situations and experiences. Several of Scout’s learning experiences occurred due to the small town life she lived in Maycomb, Alabama. The atmosphere of racial relations exposes genuine injustice and prejudice, of which she does not understand; however, because of the ambiance of Maycomb County, Jean Louise “Scout” Finch grows in her understanding of her world and develops her own perspective through her gain of knowledge. She greatly respects, trusts and appreciates her father, Atticus Finch, because of his solicitous, empathetic methods and advice. Atticus Finch, as well as Jeremy Atticus “Jem” Finch, teach Scout a myriad of memorable lessons. Throughout the novel, Atticus’ occupation as an attorney, which shapes his beliefs and actions, and his involvement with the Robinson v. Ewell case are sources of awareness and an experience of expanding maturity for Scout. In addition, Scout is shaped by Arthur “Boo” Radley, Calpurnia, and Miss Maudie Atkinson. Throughout To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee traces Jean Louise “Scout” Finch and her passage from innocence to knowledge.

Jean Louise “Scout” Finch’s journey from innocence to maturity is largely due to the atmosphere and culture of Maycomb, Alabama, her hometown. As Scout observed, “Maycomb was a tired old town, even in 1932 when I first knew it…. There was no hurry, for there was nowhere to go and nothing to buy... and no money to buy it with. Although Maycomb County had recently bee...

... middle of paper ...

...nfluenced by various aspects of her life, many of which originate due to the society of Maycomb, Alabama. As she reaches maturity, Scout learns that the racial relations in Maycomb expose injustices and prejudices, which allow her to develop her own perspective and gain an understanding of society and of the world. Through the insights of the adults in her life, in particular of Atticus, Scout is able to expand her knowledge. The life lessons she learns during the period of Robinson v. Ewell case are sources of awareness that permit Scout to develop in maturity. In addition, Scout is shaped by Arthur “Boo” Radley, Calpurnia, and Miss Maudie Atkinson by their enlightening statements and compassionate actions. Overall, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, is a coming-of-age novel that portrays an influential period of maturation in Jean Louise “Scout” Finch’s life.

Open Document