symbolism in to kill a mockingbird essay

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To Kill a Mockingbird Symbolism Essay

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“i’d rather you shoot at tin cans in the backyard but I know you’ll go after birds. Shoot all the blue jays you want if you hit ’em but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird”

“he drove the scissors into his parents leg, pulled them out, wiped the on his pants, and resumed his activities”

“I seen that black begro yonder rutting on my Mayella”

” with movements so swift they seemed simultaneous. Atticus’s hand yanked a bolt tipped lever as he brought the gun to his shoulder. The rifle cracked. Tim Johnson leaped, flopped over and crumbled on the sidewalk In a brown and white heap. He did know to hit him”

“shooting a mockingbird is a sin because they don’t do any harm. They are innocent creatures that make music.”

“get Jem and Scout through it without bitterness and most of all, without catching maycomb’s usual disease”

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To Kill A Mockingbird Symbolism Essay

symbolism in to kill a mockingbird essay

Show More To Kill a Mockingbird is filled with symbolism used to display different themes. A major symbol is the mockingbird. Mockingbirds are harmless creatures that just sing and make the world a happier place. Lee uses three main characters that resemble greatly to mockingbirds to get her subtle, but imperative points across. One of these mockingbirds is forced to meet his maker, another is forced is forced to kill, and the last mockingbird’s innocence is forced to slowly die. Lee uses these characters to portray the theme of morality and ethics in a small, southern town where the citizens’ warped morals cloud their judgment of right and wrong. In her book, To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee utilizes the phrase “to kill a mockingbird” to represent …show more content… He spends most of the book as merely a figment of collective imagination. He never comes out of his house, and in a town like Maycomb, that is a sin in and of itself. Subsequently, this this makes Boo Radley a mysterious figure that no one knows about. The majority of adults spread gossip and, the children make him into a scary story to tell their friends. His nickname, Boo, even came from one of the stories fabricated to fill in the holes in Arthur’s life. In essence, Arthur becomes a fictional character among the world of fictional characters. The narrator, Scout, and her brother, Jem, become prejudice towards Arthur Radley and judge him based on only the stories they have heard. They become infatuated with the idea of Boo Radley, and, as a result, spend years devising schemes and games to solve the mystery of Boo Radley. Arthur watches Jem and Scout grow up from the Radley Place, and over the years they become like his children. He helps them and communicates with them as much as he can without his family interfering. He gives the children gifts, covers them with blankets, and, when it comes down to it, risks his life for them. When Jem and Scout are attacked by a drunken Mr. Ewell in front of the Radley Place, Arthur comes out and exposes himself to defend them. In the end, there is blood on his hands, but the sheriff covers it up because, as Scout says afterwards, turning him in would be “…sort of like shootin’ a …show more content… Jem Finch starts off as his sister’s partner in crime. During their youth, Jem, Scout, and Dill run through the neighborhood, playing games and exploring with Jem as their fearless leader. As a ten year old boy, Jem has the innocence of a mockingbird and wants to grow up to be just like his father. When Atticus takes on the Tom Robinson case, Jem is forced to grow out of his naivety a little too quickly. Throughout the novel, Jem becomes more mature and develops a “…maddening air of wisdom…” (155). He has to come to terms with the fact that not everything is as it seems. Jem’s gradual change into adulthood first began when the citizens of Maycomb began to insult him and his family because of the Tom Robinson case. He has to become the bigger person and ignore all of the hateful remarks. He understands that fighting will not make the gossip and insults go away, and tries to relay that to Scout. His second experience was brought on by the death of Ms. Dubose, a woman who could not be labeled as simply an old, cantankerous woman. After she dies, Jem finds out that Ms. Dubose was addicted to morphine and was trying to get off of it. Although both experiences were difficult, Jem struggles with the conviction of Tom Robinson the most. Through the trial, Jem learns more and more about the adult society, but does not quite agree with it. The more the trial progresses the more he

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Resulting in him being badmouthed across the city. Jem, Scouts older brother, starts the story as a young, courageous boy dragging his little sister with him on all his pranks and games, but ends the story as a mature teenager who primarily wants to protect his sister and teach her that her actions have consequences. He looks up to his father and has the same values as Atticus, values he also helps Scout understand and appreciate. Jem is youthfully naïve at the beginning, believing that people are always honourable and humane, that the truth will always win. Beliefs that, as a result of the prejudice displayed in the Tom Robinson case, he learns are…

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Lee implies that many people are prejudiced because they are influenced by those around them. Scout and Jem are afraid of a house in their neighborhood because of the rumours they hear about the resident that lives in that house, Boo Radley. Scout thinks that “Inside the house lived (lives) a malevolent phantom. People said (say) he existed, but Jem and I (Scout) had never seen him. People said (say) he went (goes) out at night when the moon was (is) down, and peeped (peeps) in windows” (9).…

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These new freedoms not only assist Huck in overcoming adversity, they also teach him to learn from other’s mistakes. Huck lacks knowledge and experience due to his upbringing; throughout the novel the reader can easily notice that Huck matures and begins to learn said knowledge by analyzing others’ choices and making some of his own. One of the biggest misfortunes Huck experiences comes from his father; “I [Huck] used to be scared of him all the time, he tanned me so much” (Twain 19). He conquers this adversity by formulating a plan and escaping his father while his father believes him to be dead. Huck continues to stay hopeful in the idea of freedom from his father which in turn aids him in becoming free.…

Theme Of Imagery In To Kill A Mockingbird

Tom Robinson and Atticus Finch are defined Mockingbirds for their actions. In her story, Harper Lee portrays a story about a father named Atticus and his son and daughter named Jem and Scout. The story is portrayed in Maycomb, Alabama during a trial case on a rape for a black man with a white woman. And how a white man stood up against all odds to defend a black man. In her novel, To Kill A Mockingbird, Harper Lee uses the symbol of a mockingbird to portray Atticus Finch and Tom Robinson as mockingbirds by using symbolism…

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It is not until a couple years later that Scout discovers who Boo Radley really is. Through this discovery, she herself discovers that the so-called enemies of her town can be the ones with the kindest souls. Through her father’s wisdom, Scout has a newfound maturity and awareness. Scout sleepily says to her father, “‘An’ they chased him ‘n’ never could catch him ‘cause they didn’t know what he looked like, an’ Atticus, when they finally saw him, why he hadn’t done any of those things...Atticus, he was real nice...’ ‘Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them.”’ This shows that through Scout’s change from being discriminatory through preconceived notions to empathic and caring, even a young girl living in a town where being prejudice is in the blood, can overcome that standard when she discovered her hero, Boo…

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The mockingbird represents people who just want to be left alone, but are brought into public eye and humiliated without wanting to be. Another interpretation of a mockingbird is the innocent. The title of the book is to Kill a MockingBird because Tom Robinson was killed. In the book Mr. Underwood says that Tom Robinson's murder was like a murder of a songbird because he thinks it’s a sin to kill mockingbirds. Along with Tom Robinson, Scout mentions Boo Radley as a Songbird because he just wants to be left alone, but is constantly harassed and attacked.…

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This shows that Jem, due puberty and Boo Radley, has developed wisdom. He is beginning to think more like an adult, seeing things that he did not when he was younger. He is not a little boy anymore, shielded by his innocence. This changed when the fire occurred, and Jem blurted out everything about Dill, Jem, and Scout’s ventures with Boo Radley to Atticus. He felt guilty for being so bothersome to Boo when he only did good things for the kids.…

The Difference Between Good And Authority In To Kill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee

With this “wisdom” Jem has gained, he makes many changes to his daily life. He removes the plans of meeting Boo Radley from his agenda and takes up new responsibilities a boy his age usually would not have to deal with. When Jem gets over the idea of meeting Boo, he makes a joke while walking by his house when he says ‘Boo must not be home’ (Lee 342). This is when he completely leaves the world of a child because he leaves behind everything that he and Dill were working for. Jem grows up partially by forgetting the prejudice illustrated against Boo that the town of Maycomb has…

Boo's Rumors In To Kill A Mockingbird

A few points in the book made me think that the Finch kids will not meet Boo. One reason is that people said Boo existed but Scout and Jem had never seen him. There are many rumors about Boo Radley and the Scout and Jem believed every one of them. It is hard to believe that Scout and Jem considering that some of the adults in town have never layed eyes on him. One of these rumors was that Boo only came out at night, which makes me think that Scout and Jem wont ever see Boo.…

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Scout grows up being oblivious to lots of things and struggles to understand things from other people’s point of view as well as not tolerating people’s differences. Jem is Scout’s opposite, he is intelligent, and understanding but he also finds solace in sport magazines and football. Scout and Jem begin to get harassed one day at school because their dad, Atticus, was gonna defend a black man called Tom Robinson. The trial was a sham and left Tom dead trying to escape prison. Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird uses characters to show readers the importance of…

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Essay On Symbolism In To Kill A Mockingbird

Symbolism and allegory in to kill a mockingbird essay.

2 Works Cited

Harper Lee uses symbolism extensively throughout To Kill a Mockingbird,, and much of it refers to the problems of racism in the South during the early twentieth century. Harper Lee's effective use of racial symbolism and allegory can be seen by studying various examples from the book, namely the actions of the children, of the racist whites, and of Atticus Finch.

Significance of the Mockingbird in 'To Kill a Mockingbird': Who are They and What Do They Represent?

The Mockingbird has a very deep and powerful meaning in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill A Mockingbird. It represents peacefulness, innocence and kindness which is portrayed through the characters of Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. The mockingbird's influence can also be applied to the relationships between humans. The Mockingbird is a powerful symbol that echoes a strong meaning throughout the novel.

Compare and Contrast Huckleberry Finn and to Kill a Mockingbird

The Mockingbird had become something symbolic in the story. The mockingbird represents innocence and portrays itself through several different characters in the story; such as Scout Finch or Boo Radley. Despite their innocence however, they can be injured with their contact with evil. In the story, it’s explained how Boo Radley’s innocence is tainted because of his abusive father. Thus the extended metaphor or symbolism would explain that killing a mockingbird is tainting innocence. When Scout inquires her, Miss Maudie explains, “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but . . . sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” This also links the connection of Scout and Jem both having the last name finch, which is another name for a particularly small (and also harmless) bird.

Symbolism In To Kill A Mockingbird

A composer uses their text to explore themes that are pertinent to the human condition to highlight their purpose and message. This concept of exploring themes becomes ignited in To Kill A Mockingbird (1960). In her text, Lee maintains the essence of society during the civil rights movement and the Great Depression. She embarks on a journey to present the consequences of a society built on bigotry, prejudice and racism through the theme of the coexistence of good and evil. Lee’s purpose is to raise awareness and make society recognize its mistreatment of others through critiquing the Southern States of America through the microcosm of Maycomb.

In the nineteenth century, mockingbirds were kept in cages so they could sing their beautiful music. Because of this, mockingbirds were nearly almost wiped out of parts of the East Coast. All Mockingbirds do is bring beauty to the world. Mockingbirds symbolize innocence and do not deserve to be wounded by the cruelness of the world. In the story To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Dill, Mayella Ewell, Mr. Dolphus Raymond, Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are all mockingbirds. They are innocent people that have been harmed or injured in the past and have learned the misery of the world.

Boo Radley Innocent Quotes

References to the title in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird suggest that both Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are “mockingbirds.” The reader is lead to understand that the term suggests an innocent, harmless creature who should not be made to suffer. To Kill a Mockingbird is a sin. This book shows Tom Robinson and Boo Radley as mockingbirds. Boo Radley was the victim of harsh parenting and prejudgement. Tom Robinson was the victim of racism.

The Significance of the Title to Kill a Mockingbird Essay

The title To Kill a Mockingbird is very significant to the novel as it portrays many forms of mockingbirds throughout it. As the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Boo Radley and Tom Robinson are the true Mockingbirds of the story. They both are innocent from the accusations claimed upon them.

Theme Of Symbolism In To Kill A Mockingbird

Mockingbirds are a powerful means used by Lee to convey the deep-rooted prejudice entrenched in the fictional town of Maycomb. The title of the novel is symbolic of Tom Robinson and Boo Radley. Lee writes that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. However, one

Literary Analysis Of To Kill A Mockingbird

To kill a mockingbird can mean many things. It’s the title of a book that has been bought 40 million times. But, it also has a definition. To kill a mockingbird means to destroy innocence. The theme of my literary analysis is mockingbirds. Mockingbirds in TKAM are innocent things tainted by the skewed society of Maycomb. Some of these mockingbirds are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, and the children. To Kill a Mockingbird is a book set in a small Alabama town in the 1930’s. The main character and narrator is Jean Louise Finch, but is almost always called by her nickname, Scout. Scout, her brother, and her summer friend Dill get into all kinds of mischief while living in the racist society of a 1930’s Alabama town. Scout’s dad, Atticus, is a prominent lawyer in Maycomb and is appointed to a controversial case, and is defending a black man. Scout and her brother, Jem go through many troubles and learn many lessons from the days leading up to, and during the trial. The trail makes their family some friends and a lot of enemies. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a story of courage and despair. Throughout TKAM, mockingbirds are used as an example of something innocent being tainted by the skewed society of TKAM. Some great examples of these are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, and the children.

To Kill A Mockingbird Symbolism Essay

People always wondered what a mockingbird represents. In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the narrator Jean Louise Finch lives in Maycomb, Alabama, with her brother Jeremy Finch, her dad Atticus Finch, and her mother-figure Calpurnia. She learns many lessons in her life including “You never truly understand a person until you put yourself in their shoes ” and “It is a sin to kill mockingbirds.” This ties in that a mockingbird symbolizes innocence, which proves that one should not judge someone else until they truly get to know them because one must truly know another before deeming them as evil or innocent.

Essay Innocents in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

The title “To Kill A Mockingbird” is taken from a quote in the book, where Atticus says "Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird." (lee Later, Miss Maudie Atkinson states that "Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy." (p.177). This shows that mocking birds are innocent, and that is why Atticus strongly forbids his children to kill them. To Kill a Mockingbird novels theme is how prejudice affects the town of maycomb,alabama. Also, the mockingbird symbolizes innocence. All the birds do is sing for you and give you pleasure in what is natural and enjoyment to them (singing for you). Theydont harm,. They are fragile,loveable, weak, and helpless birds. In the

What Are The Symbols In To Kill A Mockingbird

Throughout the duration of the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, there are many instances where Lee uses symbolism to help deepen our understanding of the text. This successful novel is set to show the racism of the south in the 1930s. One of the more prominent symbols would be that of the ever so famous mockingbird. You can see examples of this throughout the novel, but more specifically when Atticus says “Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird.” (page 99) The mockingbird is the symbol of innocence. It is used to link the two main plot points in the novel, Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. They are the mockingbirds because they are innocents who have been destroyed by the evil of the world. This helps to deepen the understanding by connecting the importance of their characters with the innocence of the mockingbird.

Essay Justice System in To Kill a Mockingbird

5 Works Cited

The books title itself has a very controversial topic hidden within it. On page 92 in To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus says to Jem, ““Remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”. This is important because it comes back at the end of the book when Arthur kills Bob. Later on Scout received an explanation from Miss Maudie. This was their conversation, “That was the only time I ever heard Atticus say it was a sin to do something, and I asked Miss Maudie about it. “Your father’s right,” she said. “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird (Lee 92-94). This is key to the controversial topic of the Justice system in To Kill a Mockingbird. I think that in To Kill a Mockingbird the Mockingbird was referring to Tom Robinson, and Arthur Radley. Both of these men are the Mockingbirds in this story. Mockingbirds are weak, they are helpless, they don’t hurt anyone, they are very soothing and calm. Both Mr. Robinson and Mr. Radley have the traits of a mockingbird in this story and out of both of them the true mockingbird is Arthur Radley.

Theme of Courage in Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird Essay

The idea of mockingbirds in this text carries great symbolic weight, mockingbirds are considered the innocents in the novel. It is considered a sin to kill a mockingbird, which symbolizes the destruction innocence. Tom Robinson, Arthur “Boo” Radley, Jem and Mr. Raymond can all be identified as mockingbirds - innocents who have been injured or destroyed through contact with evil.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel written by Harper Lee and published in 1960. It was a very successful book, winning the Pulitzer Prize and becoming a modern American classic. Ostensibly, the title of To Kill a Mockingbird has scant literary connection to the plot of the story, but the recurring mockingbird motif symbolizes the innocent and good characters in this novel. Miss Maudie explains to Scout why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird: “Your father’s right. Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat up people’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” To Kill a Mockingbird likens three characters, Tom Robinson, Arthur “Boo” Radley, and Atticus Finch, to mockingbirds.

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To Kill A Mockingbird

Symbolism in to Kill a Mockingbird essay

What is symbolism? What is the importance of symbolism? Why do we use symbolism in literature? Symbolism refers to the use of symbols to represent ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings that are different from their literal meaning. In literature, symbols can be items, characters, ideas, or even colors used to represent larger concepts. Authors often use symbolism to communicate in-depth ideas or themes without stating them. Symbols are often used to represent something important. Symbolism is used to represent a complex idea visually and visually appealingly, enhancing its understanding. Today, one of the many universal symbols is four-leaf clovers which stand for hope, faith, love, and luck. Another universal symbol is the peace symbol, which stands for peace, love, harmony, and good vibes. Symbols like the four-leaf clover and the peace symbol are everywhere, and we often see many different symbols being used in novels. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, the mockingbird itself, Tim Johnson (the mad dog), and the Radley House tree are significant symbols. They are used to represent deeper meanings about the topic.

What Does a Mockingbird Symbolize?

The mockingbird symbolizes innocence, so the title implies that innocence is being killed or destroyed. Some characters can be viewed as mockingbirds throughout this novel, such as Boo Radley. Boo Radley is like a mockingbird because he does not harm anyone; instead, he leaves presents for Scout and Jem, covers Scout with a blanket during the fire, and then ends up saving the children from Bob Ewell and the other attackers. Boo has never done anything but be thoughtful and look out for the children, but the town often misunderstands him. This means that he represents innocents who are damaged or destroyed by evil.

Finch Symbolism

Tim Johnson was the property of Mr. Harry Johnson and was like a pet to Maycomb. In February, Tim was infected with rabies, which was odd because dogs usually got infected with rabies near August. In chapter 10, Calpurnia says, “I know it is February, Miss Eula May, but I know a mad dog when I see one” (p. 124). This quote shows that even Calpurnia thought it was unusual to see a mad dog in February but was still very sure it was a mad dog. Atticus was told to shoot the mad dog because Mr. Heck Tate said he could not shoot that well. Atticus did not want to shoot the dog but had to shoot him; the children learned that he was One-Shot Finch since Atticus had to shoot Tim, which means he is fighting against racism to get justice which goes back to Tom Robinson.

Tim and Tom probably have similar names for a reason; Atticus was chosen to defend Tom, which he did. Tim Johnson represents the mob, injustice, and anything Atticus has to fight. Scout had started her first days of school, and to get to school, she had to pass by the Radley House. One day a knot-hole in the tree near the Radley house caught her attention, and she found two pieces of gum inside the knot-hole. Chapter 4 says, “… and withdrew two pieces of chewing gum minus their outer wrapper” (p. 44). This was the first time Scout had found something in the tree, and she still took both pieces without knowing whose they were. She found little presents in the knot-hole from that day forward, but then Mr. Radley filled in the knot-hole with cement. In chapter 7, Mr. Radley said, “Tree’s dying. You plug ’em with cement when they are sick. You ought to know that, Jem” (p. 83). Mr. Radley’s reason for filling the knot-hole with cement was because the tree was dying, but that was not true. Mr. Radley just did not want Boo to communicate with the children. The knot-hole in the tree was the only way for Boo to communicate with the children nicely. He was trying to be nice and giving so that the children would not be afraid of him. The knot-hole in the tree represents Jem and Scout’s friendship with Boo.

In conclusion, symbolism is important to include in literature. The mockingbird, the mad dog, and the tree by the Radley House are important symbols found in the novel. The mockingbird symbolizes innocence, so the title suggests that innocence is being killed or destroyed. There are many examples of mockingbirds in the novel, so this symbol is the most significant. Tim Johnson represents anything Atticus has to fight. Tim Johnson is also associated with Tom Robinson. The tree near the Radley House represents Jem and Scout’s friendship with Boo. Overall, it is important to use and understand symbolism to comprehend deeper ideas or themes within the literature. Symbolism helps in understanding the immediate environment by engaging the mind and eyes.

Lee, Harper. To kill a mockingbird . Random House, 2010.

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To Kill a Mockingbird

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Symbols are objects, characters, figures, and colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts.

Mockingbirds

The title of To Kill a Mockingbird has very little literal connection to the plot, but it carries a great deal of symbolic weight in the book. In this story of innocents destroyed by evil, the “mockingbird” comes to represent the idea of innocence. Thus, to kill a mockingbird is to destroy innocence. Throughout the book, a number of characters (Jem, Tom Robinson, Dill, Boo Radley, Mr. Raymond) can be identified as mockingbirds—innocents who have been injured or destroyed through contact with evil. This connection between the novel’s title and its main theme is made explicit several times in the novel: after Tom Robinson is shot, Mr. Underwood compares his death to “the senseless slaughter of songbirds,” and at the end of the book Scout thinks that hurting Boo Radley would be like “shootin’ a mockingbird.” Most important, Miss Maudie explains to Scout: “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but . . . sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” That Jem and Scout’s last name is Finch (another type of small bird) indicates that they are particularly vulnerable in the racist world of Maycomb, which often treats the fragile innocence of childhood harshly.

Read more about the symbolic nature of birds in Suzanne Collins’s novel, The Hunger Games .

As the novel progresses, the children’s changing attitude toward Boo Radley is an important measurement of their development from innocence toward a grown-up moral perspective. At the beginning of the book, Boo is merely a source of childhood superstition. As he leaves Jem and Scout gifts and mends Jem’s pants, he gradually becomes increasingly and intriguingly real to them. At the end of the novel, he becomes fully human to Scout, illustrating that she has developed into a sympathetic and understanding individual. Boo, an intelligent child ruined by a cruel father, is one of the book’s most important mockingbirds; he is also an important symbol of the good that exists within people. Despite the pain that Boo has suffered, the purity of his heart rules his interaction with the children. In saving Jem and Scout from Bob Ewell, Boo proves the ultimate symbol of good.

Front Porches

Throughout the novel, front porches appear again and again as a symbol of the liminal space, or transitional space, between the private sphere of the home and the public sphere of the streets of Maycomb. Almost every character’s house is adorned with a front porch, and many of them, such as Miss Maudie, Mrs. Dubose, and Mr. Avery, spend significant amounts of time sitting out on their porches. As a result, the front porch becomes a space where the tensions between personal beliefs and public discourse become particularly evident. Mrs. Dubose publicizes her critical opinion of Atticus from the comfort of her front porch, a group of men, including Mr. Tate and Mr. Deas, question Atticus’s decision to take the case while he stands on his own front porch, and Miss Stephanie spreads gossip about the children’s presence at the trial on Miss Maudie’s front porch. All of these scenarios represent a mixture of opinion and actual events, giving way to a form of public gossip that feels deeply personal. Perhaps the most significant front porch scene occurs in the final chapter of the novel when Scout walks Boo Radley back to his home. She explains to the reader that “just standing on the Radley porch was enough” to learn who he really was, a man who, despite his invisibility, never failed to look out for Jem and Scout. In this instance, the space of the front porch helps Scout decipher the relationship between Boo’s public actions and his private life.

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symbolism in to kill a mockingbird essay

The Crucial Role of Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird

The Crucial Role of Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird In To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee, themes and central ideas of the novel are emphasized by subtle symbols. Symbols shown throughout the novel not only represent concrete objects but also ideas, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes of the characters. Some symbols even represent more than one thing. Lee's recurring use of symbols contribute to the underlying themes and ideas of the novel. Lee's unusual title is a symbol itself and it keeps the reader in anticipation while waiting for a mockingbird to enter the story. Symbols contribute to literature by causing the reader to examine the piece of work and look for meanings other than the literal one. In To Kill a Mockingbird, the use of symbols play a crucial role in the development of the novel. One of the first major symbols that emerge in the novel is Tim Johnson, a mad dog who is infected with rabies . Just as the dog is infected with rabies, the people of Maycomb County are "infected" with racism (Jones 54). When Tom Robinson is brought to trial, convicted, and ultimately murdered for a crime he did not commit, no one in the town seems to show any compassion or regret for him other than Atticus. Atticus describes the people of Maycomb as "mad dogs that he must confront" by defending Tom (Lee 103). To prove the symbol further, Atticus is the person called upon to shoot and kill Tim Johnson. This action by the people of Maycomb, show their deep trust in Atticus. As Atticus shoots and kills the mad dog, he also shots and kills racism in Maycomb as he steps up and defends Tom Robinson with all of his power. Through this action, Atticus is attempting to protect his neighbors from rabies as he wishes he coul... ... middle of paper ... ... and Boo are uncanny. It is obvious that Harper Lee chose both of them as her mockingbirds. Lee's choice of such an unusual title is simply another symbol present in the novel. Lee's use of symbols re imperative to the development of her novel. The symbols give structure and hidden meaning to the text. As the reader contemplates the use of symbolism, the main theme always emerges: it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. Works Cited Erisman, Fred. "The Romantic Regionalism of Harper Lee." Alabama Review April 26, 1973: 122-36. Johnson, Claudia. "The Secret Courts of Men's Hearts:Code and Law in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird." Studies in American Fiction (1991):129-139. Jones, Carolyn. "Atticus Finch and the Mad Dog." The Southern Quarterly Summer 1996: 56-63. Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. New York City, NY: J.B.Lippincott Company, 1960.

In this essay, the author

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Symbol Of Innocence In To Kill A Mockingbird

The mockingbird is used as a symbol of innocence and causing no problems in the story To Kill A Mockingbird. In the story, Atticus tells Scout not to shoot a mockingbird because it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. When Scout asks Miss Maudie about what Atticus had said, Miss Maudie responds by saying, “Your father’s right. Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” (Lee 103) This quote means that mockingbirds cause no harm and are innocent. The symbol of a mockingbird can be shown through the characters Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. The mockingbird represents Boo because Boo is seen as a dreadful person. The views about him being bad are a misconception. Boo is really …show more content… He is “shot” because the community believes he is terrible and frightening. This is also said in Sparknotes. Sparknotes says, “In this story of innocents destroyed by evil, the “mockingbird” comes to represent the idea of innocence.” This shows how Boo Radley can represent the innocent person and the people who see him as bad are the evil. Another character that can be compared to the mockingbird would be Tom Robinson. Towards the end of the story, Mr. Underwood speaks of Tom Robinson’s death in his newspaper. The editorial said, “He likened Tom’s death to the senseless slaughter of songbirds by hunters and children…” (Lee 275) The death of songbirds, such as mockingbirds, is compared to the death of Tom Robinson. The mockingbirds are innocent creatures but still killed for their feathers or for fun. Tom Robinson is also innocent but convicted of rape and is killed because of the color of his skin. Tom Robinson is a wonderful, friendly person who helped others similar to a mockingbird, but because of the racism in society, he is seen as a bad man who is not Show More

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Theme Of Symbolism In To Kill A Mockingbird

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How Does Boo Radley Represent Innocence

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Theme Of Evil In To Kill A Mockingbird

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Arthur Boo Radley Symbolism

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Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Examples

symbolism in to kill a mockingbird essay

What Does Tom Robinson Symbolize In To Kill A Mockingbird

Symbol of innocence in to kill a mockingbird.

The mockingbird in To Kill A Mockingbird is symbolic of innocence. Early in the novel, Atticus, the father tells the children Scout and Jem that it is a "sin to kill a mockingbird". Later Scout asks Miss Maudie what he meant by that because she has never heard her father say anything was a sin. Miss Maudie explains his reasoning by saying that all mockingbirds do is provide beautiful music. They do not harm anyone, they don't bother anyone, and they "sing their hearts out for us." Because the mockingbird is a symbol of innocence it is symbolic of the characters of Boo Radley, and Tom Robinson. Both are misunderstood and judged by the townspeople without really knowing them. Tom Robinson is killed violently due to being put in prison because

Tom Robinson Sin To Kill A Mockingbird

A Mockingbird is a powerful symbol of goodness. A mockingbird is a type of bird that mimics other types of birds songs and sings beautiful songs that are peaceful, the mockingbird is a peaceful animal that doesn't cause harm or trouble and is not to be harmed, because it is a sin to kill a mockingbird, thus killing a mockingbird is to destroy innocence. In the story To Kill a Mockingbird the two characters that are most related to being a mockingbird would be Tom Robinson and Boo Radley. Tom Robinson is a innocent negro accused of raping Mayella Ewell towards the end of the book, we don't see much of Tom until he is accused of rape. Tom was declared guilty and sentenced to jail, although the real problem about the case is that Tom Robinson

To Kill A Mockingbird Dialectical Journal

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Boo Radley and Tom Robinson are both symbolized as the mockingbird. The first person who was inferred as a mockingbird was Boo Radley. Boo Radley is recognized as one of the mockingbirds of the story because he has not done anything horrible. Scout talks to Miss Maudie about the rumors she has heard about Boo and Miss Maudie says that he has not done any of those rumors. The only other person who claims she has seen Boo doing something bad was Miss Stephanie who has a very big mouth. Miss Maudie tells Scout that Miss Stephanie is only lying about seeing Boo outside her window. The only other event where Boo was bad was when he was with his “gang” and he was still punished by his father for his actions. Another reason Boo is shown as the mockingbird of the book is because he has only hurt one person. The only person that Boo has hurt was his father and that is still just a rumor. When Boo stabbed his father with the scissors his father punished him and did not let him go without consequences. Boo has not hurt anyone or done anything bad so he is portrayed as the mockingbird throughout the book. Tom Robinson is also symbolized as a

To Kill A Mockingbird Argumentative Essay

Racial equality and discrimination is a founding issue that has been spread throughout every part of the world, To Kill A Mockingbird was written and published by Harper Lee in 1960, this time was dominated by civil rights protests and some of the first hippie movements following the crushing reality of the Vietnam War, the 60s also saw the struggle against segregation and racial equality. It is no surprise that the extreme political conflict affecting her life and world would greatly impact her writing and influence how she perceived the world during the writing of To Kill a Mockingbird. the influence of the fight for racial inequality is shown greatly in her book as she depicts the everyday life

Three Characters In To Kill A Mockingbird

In the novel To Kill A Mockingbird shows three people that symbolize a mockingbird. Mockingbirds are known as innocent creatures in this novel. The novel takes place in Maycomb, Alabama in the 1930’s. It’s about two children growing up to learn the harsh and racist world they live in. Three specific characters show or represent a mockingbird in the story. The kids don’t really understand also why a lot of people are mean or mad at the three characters that represent a mockingbird. In the novel, “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, the three characters that represent a mockingbird are Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, and Atticus Finch.

Tom Robinson Metaphor

In the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the mockingbird is a metaphor for Tom Robinson. While mockingbirds are discussed in the novel as literal birds that harmlessly sing and entertain, Lee clearly uses the mockingbird to symbolize Tom Robinson. One reason that supports this idea is a Robinson is a innocent man who tried to help someone but then was convicted of rape. Another reason that supports the metaphor is Tom, the innocent songbird, was put on trial for his life and was convicted guilty. This inhuman action of murdering an innocent and harmless man who wanted to help is like the killing of a harmless songbird.both are innocent, and both murders are wrong.

How Does Tom Robinson Show Innocence In To Kill A Mockingbird

In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee the term mockingbird symbolizes innocence in a person. In the novel it focuses on the fact that innocence, represented by the mockingbird, can be wrongfully harmed. There are two characters: Tom Robinson and Arthur “Boo” Radley that are supposed to represent the mockingbird. In the novel, Tom Robinson is the best example of a mockingbird because he is prosecuted for a crime he did not commit. Also, he was judged unfairly based on the color of his skin in his trial. Although some may believe Boo is a better choice for a mockingbird, there is a greater amount of evidence that supports Tom is a mockingbird.

Theme Of Racial Judgement In To Kill A Mockingbird

Part of the human nature consists of racial judgment towards others. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, presents themes of gender bias, justice, and social class. But one of the main focuses in the book is racism. Most of the people in Maycomb County show racial judgments, opinions, and comments against African American people, as well as white people. Jem and Scout learn the power of racism and what it does to people, as they experience certain situations. Through the stories of Tom Robinson's trial, Jem and Scouts journey to Calpurnia's church, and Mrs. Dubose's commentary to Jem, the theme of racism remains.

Tom Robinson's Loss Of Innocence In To Kill A Mockingbird

To kill a mockingbird is to destroy innocence. Mockingbirds do not cause harm or trouble; in fact their only purpose is to convince others with beautiful music. Tom Robinson’s death can easily be compared to that of a mockingbird; it did no good but also prevented no evil.

Causes Of Tom Robinson's Trial In To Kill A Mockingbird

Due to the setting of To Kill a Mockingbird, the outcome of Tom Robinson's trial is likely to be Tom ruled guilty. One piece of evidence to support a guilty verdict is the fact that Tom Robinson is black and the Ewells are white. In the 1930's, if a black man was accused of raping a white woman, a guilty verdict and the death penalty was the most common outcome. Earlier on in the story, Atticus states that they had already lost due to the color of Tom's skin. This is also due to the fact that they are having this trail in a heavily segregated south in the 1930's. Lastly, the separation of classes due to the Great Depression being in effect causes Tom to be set below the majority of Maycomb because of Tom's wealth, or lack thereof. Tom

The Symbols Of Tom Robinson's To Kill A Mockingbird

“ Mockingbirds don’t do one thing except make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat uppeople’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us.That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird” (Lee 119). Tom Robinson, a minor yet importantcharacter, is indirectly described as a mockingbird throughout the whole book, since he waskilled for entertainment purposes and not because of the crime he was guilty of, when he wastruly innocent. He did not do one thing but be honest, but his skin color made the people thinkotherwise (Gladwell). The book takes place in Maycomb, Alabama in the early 1930s, the yearsof the Great Depression, and tension between races was unbelievably especially in the southernstates (Cliffsnotes). To Kill a Mockingbirdhas been banned in different states because of itsracial slurs, rape, and bad behavior. Black parents have wanted to ban the book in their schoolsbecause they do not want their kids to learn how cruel some people can be.

Social Inequality In To Kill A Mockingbird Analysis

Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird famously said in his closing arguments: "You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some negro men are not to be trusted around women- black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and no particular race of men." (pg 232) What Atticus is trying to convey is a foreign concept to most people in Maycomb county. Atticus is trying to convey a point of equality and no prejudice in a world of social inequality which, as one can imagine, didn 't go over so well. To kill a mockingbird tells a story of a county whose morals are masked by the great depression, a county whose judgment is masked by racism and social stigma. In to kill a mockingbird,

Theme Of Innocence In To Kill A Mockingbird

How do you define innocence? Is there someone out in the world who is purely innocent? To understand innocence you should look at what a mockingbird does, because all they do is sing. In Harper Lee’s classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus and Miss Maudie teach Scout and Jem that it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird. Mockingbirds are an important symbol because they represent goodness and innocence. In this book, Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are two innocent men, similar to mockingbirds, who get taken advantage of due to their innocence.

How Is Boo Radley Portrayed In To Kill A Mockingbird

In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee many characters are victims of the harsh conditions of Maycomb County. Often those who are seen to be metaphorical mockingbirds are punished the most. A mockingbird is one who only wants and attempts to do good. Characters such as Boo Radley, Jem Finch and Tom Robinson are exemplars of mockingbirds in Maycomb. In the novel it is explained by Atticus that killing a mockingbird is a sin because they do not do anything to harm to us like nesting in corncribs, or eating up the gardens, they only sing for us. Multiple characters are symbolized as mockingbirds because it would be a sin to kill them as they only try and want to be a kind, civil person.

Tom Racism Quotes

In To Kill A Mockingbird, a theme that develops throughout the whole book is that people are not always who they seem to be. People are not always who they seem to be because they hide their true selves, there are rumors about them, and people are racist.

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COMMENTS

To Kill a Mockingbird Symbolism Essay
The mockingbird has a very deep and peaceful meaning in the novel. It represents peacefulness, innocence and kindness. Characters such as Boo
To Kill A Mockingbird Symbolism Essay
To Kill A Mockingbird Quotes. The mockingbird represents people who just want to be left alone, but are brought into public eye and humiliated without wanting
What Does Tom Robinson Symbolize in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'?
The mockingbird is portrayed as a innocent fragile songbird that symbolizes innocence but is killed by men. Tom Robinson symbolizes an innocent fragile songbird
Essay On Symbolism In To Kill A Mockingbird
The Mockingbird had become something symbolic in the story. The mockingbird represents innocence and portrays itself through several different characters in the
Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird
The mockingbird, the mad dog, and the tree by the Radley House are important symbols found in the novel. The mockingbird symbolizes innocence
To Kill a Mockingbird: Symbols
The title of To Kill a Mockingbird has very little literal connection to the plot, but it carries a great deal of symbolic weight in the book.
The Crucial Role of Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird
As Atticus shoots and kills the mad dog, he also shots and kills racism in Maycomb as he steps up and defends Tom Robinson with all of his power. Through this
Symbol Of Innocence In To Kill A Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird Essay In Harper Lee's book, To Kill a Mockingbird, the mockingbird is a symbol of something or someone being harmed when that person
Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Examples
A mockingbird is a symbol of innocence. IN the title to kill a mockingbird, the mockingbird represents the black man who is wrongly charged with rape. He was
What Does Tom Robinson Symbolize In To Kill A Mockingbird
In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee the term mockingbird symbolizes innocence in a person. In the novel it focuses on the fact that innocence