The Role of Prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird

Introduction

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a profound exploration of human nature, societal values and morality. One of the central themes of the novel is prejudice—whether it’s racial, social or based on class. The novel is set in the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama, in the 1930s. It uses the trial of Tom Robinson to examine the destructive power of prejudice. For A-Level and GCSE English Literature students, analysing how prejudice shapes the characters is crucial. It also affects the plot and themes of To Kill a Mockingbird. This analysis is essential to understanding the novel’s broader message about justice and inequality.

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Here are some frequently asked questions to deepen your understanding of the themes of prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird.

How does Harper Lee portray the theme of prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Harper Lee portrays prejudice through the racial, social and class divisions in Maycomb. The trial of Tom Robinson exemplifies racial prejudice, while the Ewells’ treatment highlights class-based discrimination. The novel challenges these prejudices through the moral integrity of characters like Atticus Finch.

How does Scout’s understanding of prejudice change throughout the novel?

At the beginning of the novel, Scout is largely innocent and unaware of the deep-seated prejudices in her community. As the story progresses, she experiences the trial of Tom Robinson. These experiences, along with Boo Radley’s story, help her understand the unfair judgments people make based on race. She also learns about social class, ultimately developing empathy and awareness.

Why is Atticus Finch considered a moral hero in the face of prejudice?

Atticus Finch is considered a moral hero because he stands up against the racist and prejudiced norms of his community. His defence of Tom Robinson is performed despite the town’s disapproval. He also makes efforts to instill values of justice and equality in his children. These actions highlight his integrity and commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.

Prejudice in Maycomb Society

In To Kill a Mockingbird, prejudice permeates nearly every aspect of life in Maycomb. The town is sharply divided along racial lines, with white citizens enjoying a sense of superiority over the African-American community. Tom Robinson’s trial is a stark reflection of these divisions. There is clear evidence of Tom’s innocence. However, he is convicted of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell. This conviction occurs purely because he is Black. This unjust outcome reveals the ingrained racial prejudice in Maycomb, where Black people are dehumanised and denied justice.

Lee also depicts prejudice outside of race, exploring class and social discrimination. The Finch family, while respected, faces subtle judgment because of Atticus’ decision to defend Tom Robinson. The Ewells, considered “white trash,” are themselves victims of social prejudice despite their racial privilege. This interplay of prejudice based on both race and class illustrates the complexities of societal discrimination.

The Role of Atticus Finch

Atticus Finch, the father of Scout and Jem, stands as a moral beacon in a town filled with prejudice. He decides to defend Tom Robinson even though the odds are overwhelming. The town disapproves of this decision. Nonetheless, it shows his commitment to justice and equality. Atticus teaches his children to judge people by their character, not by their race, class, or social status. He famously states:

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

Atticus’s character serves as an ideal for readers and students alike. His stance against prejudice makes him a hero in the novel. It also offers a lens for students to critique the societal norms of the time. By examining Atticus’ actions, students gain insight into how individual morality can challenge collective injustice. This theme is still relevant in modern discussions about prejudice and discrimination.

Scout’s Journey Towards Understanding Prejudice

Through Scout’s eyes, we see the impact of prejudice on her community and her own understanding of right and wrong. Scout begins the novel with a childlike innocence, unaware of the deeply ingrained racism and classism in Maycomb. Over time, her experiences force her to confront the reality of prejudice. She watches her father defend Tom Robinson. She witnesses the injustice of the trial and interacts with Boo Radley.

Scout’s journey toward understanding is a key focus for students studying the novel. Her character growth shows a loss of innocence. She realises that people are often judged unfairly based on societal biases. By the end of the novel, Scout has developed a deeper empathy. This growth reflects the lessons her father tried to impart. This transformation mirrors the novel’s broader message about overcoming prejudice and learning to see others as individuals rather than stereotypes.

Conclusion

Prejudice is a pervasive and destructive force in To Kill a Mockingbird. It shapes the characters’ actions and influences the plot’s outcomes. Whether based on race, class, or social standing, prejudice is revealed as the central obstacle to justice in Maycomb. For A-Level and GCSE students, studying how Harper Lee portrays prejudice gives students a chance to reflect on history. It also provides a chance to understand the modern relevance of these themes. The novel’s exploration of human nature, morality and social justice continues to resonate with readers. This makes To Kill a Mockingbird a timeless piece of literature. It challenges us to examine our own beliefs and prejudices.

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