to kill a mockingbird

In the 1930's, women were the obedient housewives, still staying at home looking after the children. They were seen as fragile begins that cannot be in the workforce. Women were to be patient, calm and understanding. The novel demonstrates women being expected to follow social rules, to have strong morals and be a role model to children. Scout’s Aunt, Alexandra, is a perfect Southern lady. She is a person who feels that women should have their own personality and be individuals. It is seen throughout the novel how Alexandra expresses her gender proudly. However, when a woman like Alexandra finds Scout wearing muddy overalls, she is going to get mad. In Alexandra’s eyes, Scout should be serving tea, and wearing dresses and skirts, not playing outside with the boys. “She pointed an arthritic finger at me ‘what are you doing in those overalls? You should be in a dress and camisole, young lady’” (Lee 55). The quote shows that Alexandra's goal is very simple, she wants her everyone, specifically her niece, to follow the society’s roles that are brought upon them. In another case Scout's cousin, Francis, is calling her father names for defending a black man in court, which will apparently ruin their reputation in town. Scout reacts by punching his face. “This time, I split my knuckle to the bone on his front teeth. My left impaired, I sailed in with my right, but not for long. Uncle Jack pinned my arms to my sides and said, ‘Stand still’” (Lee 43). The quote shows that Scout is not acting like a young girl would normally act. By doing this, Scout defies the boundaries of how a woman is supposed to act and acts differently. She successfully escapes restrictions that society has placed on her because of her gender. Showing courage, and m... ... middle of paper ... ...ee it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do. Mrs. Dubose won, all ninety-eight pounds of her. According to her views, she died beholden to nothing and nobody. She was the bravest person I ever knew” (Lee 78). This quote is when Atticus is explaining to Jem how couragous she was because she knew she was dying but wanted to live the rest of her life morphine free. She fought against all of the odds and won. The novel shows women like Calpurnia and Miss Maudie to have strong morals that they not only follow, but share with people around them. Women are role models for children, they try to teach the difference between good and bad. Also women are confined to follow certain social rules like Alexandra a talented women but sits in the hose having tea and gossiping Works Cited Lee, Harper. "To Kill a Mockingbird. New York: Warner Books, 1960.