To Kill a Mockingbird - Book Overview

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To kill a Mockingbird is a novel portraying many different types of prejudices towards a diverse population. The central theme is "it's a crime to kill a mockingbird," meaning that it is wrong to be prejudiced towards someone who has done nothing wrong. In To kill a Mockingbird the main story is of racial prejudice with white town residents accusing a black man, Tom Robinson, of a crime he did not and could not have committed. The evidence presented in court did not indicate Tom as being guilty but the residents of Maycomb indicted and convicted him regardless. Other prejudices are also brought to light throughout the novel as a six-year-old child, Scout, observes the trial of Tom Robinson and the relationships of families in her town over the period of three years. Characters Atticus Finch - is the town's most respected lawyer. He is not wealthy, but he is well off in the community and kind towards everyone. Atticus gives constant advice and direction to both his children. He teaches them that they cannot judge people until they "climb into their skin and walk around in it". He is responsible for Tom Robinson's defense. Jean Louise Finch (Scout) - a six-year-old girl. Scout is very intelligent and considered a tomboy. Scout has a combative streak and a basic faith in the goodness of the people in town. She is the daughter of Atticus Finch. Jeremy Finch (Jem) - is Scout's older brother. He is 10 as the story begins, and 13 at its end. He is very wise for his age, and very emotional. He takes after his father Atticus. Charles Baker Harris (Dill) - is a friend of Scout and Jem. He is seven years old. He is... ... middle of paper ... ...Radley, and shows that Tom reflects society on a larger scale. He is representative of the outcast in society throughout the United States. However, in reality, there are Tom Robinson's in all of our neighborhoods and communities, regardless of race, sex or color. When Atticus tells Jem and Scout that it is a sin to kill the mockingbird, he is referring to the actions directed towards Tom and Boo. It was a sin to dislike Tom and Boo based on what others thought about them. The people in Maycomb punished them because they did not fit what the general populace felt was a mold. The message of the novel is to stop judging others who are different. Scout realizes that it was wrong to assume evil things about Boo Radley because of what others perceived of him. Furthermore, it was unfortunate that the people of Maycomb County did not realize their unfair treatment

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