1. To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 10: Diagnosing a Disease
Honors English 9
Mrs. Malaspino

2. Chapter 10: An allegory
An allegory is an extended form of symbolism, in which an entire story, or in this case, an entire chapter in the novel, may be seen as symbolic.
Each character or incident in the chapter may be interpreted as a symbol, all leading to a deeper understanding of the message the author intended.

3. Atticus to Jack Finch, discussing the Tom Robinson trial:
“I hope and pray I can get Jem and Scout through it without bitterness, and most of all, without catching Maycomb’s usual disease. Why reasonable people go stark raving mad when anything involving a Negro comes up, is something I don’t pretend to understand.”
(Chapter 9, p. 117)

4. Examine the evidence
As you view the film clip and re-read chapter 10, record the major actions that each of the following characters or groups takes.
Calpurnia
Sheriff Heck Tate
Atticus
Neighbors

5. After reviewing the scene on film and in the text, determine what each of the following might symbolize:
The “mad” dog (Tim Johnson)
Maycomb’s usual disease
Sheriff Heck Tate
Heck giving Atticus the gun
Atticus dropping his glasses
Neighbors hiding behind closed doors
Atticus’ nick-name: “One-Shot Finch”
Dead dog remaining dangerous

6. Drawing a conclusion
Examine all of the evidence you have gathered. What message do you think Harper Lee is expressing in this chapter? Why? To what extent is this theme relevant to the novel as a whole so far? Cite examples to support your claim.