An Introduction to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

An Introduction to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird
English I Honors

Harper Lee Born on April 28, 1926 in Monroeville, Alabama
Youngest of four children 1957 – submitted manuscript for her novel; was urged to rewrite it Spent over two years reworking it 1960 – To Kill a Mockingbird (her only novel) published was one of two persons named by President Johnson to the National Council of Arts

Setting Maycomb, ALABAMA
Harper Lee's hometown, Monroeville, AL, is considered the inspiration for the setting of To Kill a Mockingbird.

Main Characters Scout (Jean Louise Finch) – six-year-old narrator of story Jem (Jeremy Finch) – her older brother Atticus Finch – Jem and Scout’s father, a prominent lawyer who defends a black man accused of raping a white woman Arthur (Boo) Radley – a thirty-three-year-old recluse who lives next door Charles Baker (Dill) Harris – Jem and Scout’s friend who comes to visit his aunt in Maycomb each summer Tom Robinson – a respectable black man accused of raping a white woman Calpurnia – the Finches’ black cook

Social Class in the Novel
This is probably similar to how class structure existed during the 1930’s in the South. The wealthy, although fewest in number, were most powerful. The blacks, although great in number, were lowest on the class ladder, and thus, had the least privileges. Examples of each social class: Wealthy - Finches Country Folk - Cunninghams “White Trash” – Ewells Black Community – Tom Robinson

Social and Economic Climate of the 1930s
Wall Street Crash (October 1929) People invested in shares Prices increased Companies bogus

Social and Economic Climate of the 1930s
The Rise of Unemployment The Effect of the Wall Street Crash People saved money Withdrew money from banks Banks collapsed Companies went bankrupt Result Loss of jobs, homes, businesses, and land As a result, men and women began riding the rails to find food and work. Rivalry between blacks and whites became worse – competing for jobs and food.

Scottsboro Case Two Huntsville Mill Girls Hobo to Chattanooga
Victoria Price 21 years old Known prostitute Employed at Margaret spinning mill Ruby Bates 17 years old Quiet and well behaved Wages were always low and hours long in all Huntsville Mills. Working conditions were especially bad in Margaret Mills. Respectable citizens of Huntsville said that only the lowest type of mill worker would take a job in the Margaret and Helen Mills. Mills were cutting back their hours – The Margaret had its workers on shifts employed only every other week, from two to four days a week.

Scottsboro Case The Alleged Rape According to Price’s testimony:
African-American men forced white men off train Six men raped Price and Bates The Defendants Along with the two girls were several black and white men. A fight broke out between the men, all white men but one were thrown off the train. The white men who were thrown off informed the station master that the black men and two white girls were on the freight – master telegraphed ahead to have the train stopped. The train was stopped in Paint Rock, Alabama.

Scottsboro Case A Lynching Spirit Outside the Courtroom
Officials maintain a peaceful crowd Armed soldiers on guard inside and outside the courtroom An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 people gather outside the courthouse Outside the Courtroom One women said if they have another trial, she would like them to leave the soldiers home because the people could finish off the “black fiends” and save the bother of a second trial.

Scottsboro Case The Trial April 6, 1931 – April 9, 1931 Witnesses
Price and Bates One white man (collaborated) Nine African-American men Acquaintance of women (did not collaborate) Physician Eight of nine men sentenced to death The physicians testified that neither of the girls showed signs of any rough handling on their bodies. Mistrial declared for ninth because of his youth. Executions suspended because of pending court appeals.

Scottsboro Case Trial Continues
November 7, 1932 United States Supreme Court orders new trial March 27, 1933 the new trial begins Famous New York defense attorney Samuel S. Leibowitz Two physicians refute that multiple rapes occurred Ruby Bates openly denies rapes occurred April 9, 1933 first defendant found guilty Judge James Horton overturns conviction April 1, 1935 United States Supreme Court reversed all convictions New trials ordered – the defendants did not have adequate legal representation. Horton overturned verdict on the grounds that the evidence presented did not warrant conviction Later in nd defendant found guilty – execution delayed pending appeal Convictions reversed on grounds that qualified African-Americans had been systematically excluded from all juries in Alabama None of the men are executed; however, a number remained on death row for many years. The case was not settled until 1976 with the pardon of the last of the Scottsboro defendants.

Parallels Between Scottsboro and Tom Robinson Trials
Scottsboro Trial Tom Robinson’s Trial 1930s Northern Alabama Southern Alabama Rape charge by white women against African-American men Rape charge by a white woman against an African-American man Poor white status of accusers a critical issue Poor white status of Mayella a critical issue Central figure is a heroic judge Central figure is Atticus, who defends an African-American man Judge goes against public sentiment Atticus arouses anger in community defending Robinson Jury ignores evidence

Other Interesting Facts
Though not, biographical there are some connections with Lees own life Her father as an attorney who defended two black men accused of murder. Her brother was the same age as Jem, and she had a friend who bares similarities with Dill The novel has stirred up great controversy due its use of racial slurs and subject matter. Was ranked above the Bible, by British librarians as a book that every adult should read before they die

"Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy
"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."

Chapter 1 PART ONE: Part one is used to set the stage for Part two. It introduces the main characters and goes into great detail concerning Southern setting and Southern attitude. The background historically is the 1930s, the time of the Great Depression. The plot concentrates on the children’s experiences of Scout, the narrator, and her brother, Jem. It also touches on the Boo Radley mystery. It is not until the end of the novel that all these things, including the significance of the title are all tied together.

Chapter 1 Who is the narrator of this story and what is the advantage of having her? What is the function of relating the family history at the outset of the novel? Cite details to establish the setting of the novel. Briefly explain why Boo is kept locked up. Describe the “legend” of Boo. Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird
English I Honors

Setting The setting is a very strong element in TKAM. It is linked with theme, character, and plot. Time: 1930s, Great Depression era Economic difficulties of this time caused problems for all classes of people There was a sharp division between blacks and whites in society Place: Maycomb, Alabama – Alabama is renown as a site of racial tension, historically

Theme Themes in the novel are based on the concept of racial prejudice which was so much a part of society at that time: Harper Lee stresses the need for human understanding to destroy the evils of racial prejudice.

Point of View TKAM is told in the first person, from the point of view of Scout Finch, a young girl. The story is a flashback told by an older Scout Finch looking back on her experiences growing up. However, the point of view is mostly a first-person limited one; that is, limited to the knowledge of the younger Scout. In this way, the narration presents a sort of “doubled” perspective on the events.

Perception Survey For the following statements write:
1 beside the statement if you strongly agree, 2 if you agree, 3 for disagree, and 4 for strongly disagree.

Statements All people are created equal. It's okay to be different.
Nobody is al bad or all good. Some words are so offensive that they should never be stated or written. Under our justice system, all citizens are treated fairly in our courts of law. Speaking standard grammar proves that a person is smart. A hero is born, not made. No one is above the law. Education is the great equalizer. When the law doesn’t succeed in punishing criminals,, citizens should do so.

Now that you have read Chapter 1…
What were your initial reactions? This novel deals with many social issues. Some may be very sensitive for people. Therefore, we must be respectful.

Chapter 1: Answers Who is the narrator of this story and what is the advantage of having her? What is the function of relating the family history at the outset of the novel? Cite details to establish the setting of the novel. Briefly explain why Boo is kept locked up. Describe the “legend” of Boo. Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

Chapter 2 What great event was Scout looking forward to?
Why does the teacher, Miss Caroline Fisher, become annoyed with Scout? How had Scout learned to read and who taught her? What is hookworm and who has it? What happened at lunch? Does the teacher understand the children of this town and their problems? At the end of the chapter how is Scout humiliated? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 2 Answers What great event was Scout looking forward to?
Why does the teacher, Miss Caroline Fisher, become annoyed with Scout? How had Scout learned to read and who taught her? What is hookworm and who has it? What happened at lunch? Does the teacher understand the children of this town and their problems? At the end of the chapter how is Scout humiliated? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

Hookworm Hookworm is a parasitic worm that lives in the intestines and infects mainly mammals living in poor countries. Larval invasion of the skin might give rise to intense, local itching, usually on the foot or lower leg, which can be followed by lesions that look like insect bites.

Chapter 3 Who is Calpurnia? What is her place in the Finch household?
What is Walter Cunningham like? What does his behaviour during lunch suggest about his home life? What do you think of the way Atticus treats Walter? Does Scout learn anything from Walter's visit? What do you think this is? Atticus says that you never really understand a person “until you climb into his skin and walk around in it”. What does this mean? Is it an easy thing for Scout to learn? (In the last chapter of the novel, Scout repeats this, but she changes “skin” to “shoes” - this is probably not a mistake: Harper Lee suggests that Scout cannot clearly recall exactly what Atticus said and when, but the reader can check this!) What do you learn in this chapter about the Ewells? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 3 Answers Who is Calpurnia? What is her place in the Finch household? What is Walter Cunningham like? What does his behaviour during lunch suggest about his home life? What do you think of the way Atticus treats Walter? Does Scout learn anything from Walter's visit? What do you think this is? Atticus says that you never really understand a person “until you climb into his skin and walk around in it”. What does this mean? Is it an easy thing for Scout to learn? (In the last chapter of the novel, Scout repeats this, but she changes “skin” to “shoes” - this is probably not a mistake: Harper Lee suggests that Scout cannot clearly recall exactly what Atticus said and when, but the reader can check this!) What do you learn in this chapter about the Ewells? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

Chapter 4 How does Scout feel about the Maycomb County school system?
What new information does Dill offer about his father? What was in the knot-hole of one of the oak trees? How does the children’s play involve the Radley’s? What was Scout’s first reason for wanting to quit the game? Write a paragraph summary of the chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 4 Answers How does Scout feel about the Maycomb County school system? What new information does Dill offer about his father? What was in the knot-hole of one of the oak trees? How does the children’s play involve the Radley’s? What was Scout’s first reason for wanting to quit the game? Write a paragraph summary of the chapter.

Chapter 5 Who is Miss Maudie Atkinson and what do the “Foot washing” Baptists say to her? What did the children want to send Boo and why? What was Atticus’ response to this? Is Jem resentful of his father’s orders? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 5 Answers Who is Miss Maudie Atkinson and what do the “Foot washing” Baptists say to her? What did the children want to send Boo and why? What was Atticus’ response to this? Is Jem resentful of his father’s orders? Write a one paragraph summary of the chapter.

Initial Character Sketch Chapters 1-5
As we read further into the novel, we gain a better understanding of its principal characters. Today, you will chose a character from the list below and create an Initial Character Sketch of that character. Atticus Jem Scout Dill Calpurina Miss Maudie Boo Radley

English I Honors

Chapter 6 What is the children’s plan for Dill’s last night in Maycomb? How do you keep a squeaky gate from making a noise? How does Jem lose his pants? And how does Dill explain this? Does Nathan Radley know who was in his back yard? What does Jem feel he needs to do but Scout doesn’t want him to do? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 6 Answers What is the children’s plan for Dill’s last night in Maycomb? How do you keep a squeaky gate from making a noise? How does Jem lose his pants? And how does Dill explain this? Does Nathan Radley know who was in his back yard? What does Jem feel he needs to do but Scout doesn’t want him to do? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 7 When Jem tells Scout about getting his trousers back, he tells her of something strange. What is this? Can you find any evidence that Jem is beginning to understand more than Scout about Boo Radley? What do you think this is? Does Jem still fear the gifts in the tree? Give reasons for your answer. When the children plan to send a letter to the person who leaves the gifts, they are prevented. How does this happen? Who does it, and why might he do so? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 7 Answers When Jem tells Scout about getting his trousers back, he tells her of something strange. What is this? Can you find any evidence that Jem is beginning to understand more than Scout about Boo Radley? What do you think this is? Does Jem still fear the gifts in the tree? Give reasons for your answer. When the children plan to send a letter to the person who leaves the gifts, they are prevented. How does this happen? Who does it, and why might he do so? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 8 Why does Scout quiz Atticus about his visit to the Radley house? How much does Atticus tell her? What is the “near libel” which Jem puts in the front yard? How do Miss Maudie and Atticus react to it? Why does Atticus save Miss Maudie's oak rocking chair? When Atticus asks Scout about the blanket around her shoulders, what does Jem realize? Explain what Atticus means by telling Jem not to let his discovery “inspire ” him to “further glory”? Is there any reason why Jem might now do as his father says? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 8 Answers Why does Scout quiz Atticus about his visit to the Radley house? How much does Atticus tell her? What is the “near libel” which Jem puts in the front yard? How do Miss Maudie and Atticus react to it? Why does Atticus save Miss Maudie's oak rocking chair? When Atticus asks Scout about the blanket around her shoulders, what does Jem realize? Explain what Atticus means by telling Jem not to let his discovery “inspire ” him to “further glory”? Is there any reason why Jem might now do as his father says? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 9 How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama at this time? Scout and Jem have “mixed feelings” about Christmas? What are these feelings and why? Uncle Jack Finch tells Scout that she is growing out of her pants. What does this mean and why might he say it? When Francis talks to Scout he reveals an unpleasant feature of Aunt Alexandra. What is this? Does Scout learn anything from overhearing Atticus's conversation with Uncle Jack? What might this be? Read the final sentence of this chapter. Explain in your own words what it means and why it might be important in the story. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 9 Answers How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama at this time? Scout and Jem have “mixed feelings” about Christmas? What are these feelings and why? Uncle Jack Finch tells Scout that she is growing out of her pants. What does this mean and why might he say it? When Francis talks to Scout he reveals an unpleasant feature of Aunt Alexandra. What is this? Does Scout learn anything from overhearing Atticus's conversation with Uncle Jack? What might this be? Read the final sentence of this chapter. Explain in your own words what it means and why it might be important in the story. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 10 Scout says that “Atticus was feeble”. Do you think that this is her view as she tells the story or her view when she was younger? Does she still think this after the events recorded in this chapter? In this chapter Atticus tells his children that “it's a sin to kill a mockingbird”. What reason does he give for saying this? Why does Heck Tate not want to shoot Tim Johnson? Near the end of this chapter Atticus cuts off Heck Tate as he is speaking to Jem. What might Heck have been about to say, and why would Atticus want to stop him from saying it? Jem and Scout have different views about telling people at school how well Atticus can shoot. Explain this difference. Which view is closer to your own? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 11 How does Atticus advise Jem to react to Mrs. Dubose's taunts? What does Mrs. Dubose say about the children's mother? How does Jem feel about this? What request does Mrs. Dubose make of Jem? Is this a fair punishment for his “crime”? Explain in your own words what Atticus thinks of insults like “nigger-lover”. Do you agree with him? Atticus says that Mrs. Dubose is a model of real courage rather than “a man with a gun in his hand”. What does he mean? Do you think he is right? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 11 Answers How does Atticus advise Jem to react to Mrs. Dubose's taunts? What does Mrs. Dubose say about the children's mother? How does Jem feel about this? What request does Mrs. Dubose make of Jem? Is this a fair punishment for his “crime”? Explain in your own words what Atticus thinks of insults like “nigger-lover”. Do you agree with him? Atticus says that Mrs. Dubose is a model of real courage rather than “a man with a gun in his hand”. What does he mean? Do you think he is right? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Part 1 Year Time of year Chapter What happens 1933 Early summer 1
1933 Early summer 1 Introduction. Arrival of Dill. Children try to get Boo to come out. September 2 Scout starts school: Miss Caroline Fisher. Description of Cunningham family. 3 Burris Ewell upsets Miss Caroline. Ewells described. 1934 Late spring/ early summer 4 Boo leaves gifts in tree. Dill comes back to Mayvcomb. 5 Children attempt to send Boo a letter. Late summer 6 Children try to spy on Boo. October/November 7 Boo leaves more gifts. Hole is filled with cement. Tom arrested for alleged rape Winter 8 Cold winter. Snow in Maycomb. Miss Maudie's house burnt. Christmas 9 Atticus agrees to defend Tom Robinson. Scout fights Cousin Francis. 1935 February 10 Atticus shoots Tim Johnson (a rabid dog). Spring 11 Jem beheads Mrs. Dubose's camellias and has to read to her. She overcomes her morphine addiction and dies.

Part 1 Chapters 10 & 11 are the two final chapters in the first part of the novel. Explain why Lee chooses to end the first part at this point. The switch from Part 1 to Part 2 in the book marks a change in Jem and Scout. For starters, they are not at all worried about Boo Radley and the Radley Place, following events such as the gifts he gave to the children through a knothole in a tree to Miss Maudie’s house fire, where he placed a blanket around Scout’s shoulders. By the last chapter of part 1, ‘tormenting Boo Radley became passé’, and Jem and Dill had stopped the reenactment of Boo Radley’s life and their efforts to get Boo Radley to come out. In addition, Scout and Jem were about to witness yet more racial discrimination, both against the blacks and the Finches for defending Tom Robinson, as the court hearing drew closer.

Chapter 12 Comment on Jem's and Scout's visit to First Purchase church. What new things does Scout learn here about how the black people live? What does Scout learn from Calpurnia's account of Zeebo's education? Explain why Calpurnia speaks differently in the Finch household, and among her neighbours at church. Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 12 Answers Comment on Jem's and Scout's visit to First Purchase church. What new things does Scout learn here about how the black people live? What does Scout learn from Calpurnia's account of Zeebo's education? Explain why Calpurnia speaks differently in the Finch household, and among her neighbours at church. Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Chapter 13 Why does Aunt Alexandra come to stay with Atticus and his family? What is she like? Read the first two things Alexandra says when she comes to the Finch house. Are these typical of her or not? Alexandra thinks Scout is “dull” (not clever). Why does she think this, and is she right? Are all adults good at knowing how clever young people are? How does Aunt Alexandra involve herself in Maycomb's social life? Comment on Aunt Alexandra's ideas about breeding and family. Why does Atticus tell them to forget it? Who is right, do you think? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 13 Answers Why does Aunt Alexandra come to stay with Atticus and his family? What is she like? Read the first two things Alexandra says when she comes to the Finch house. Are these typical of her or not? Alexandra thinks Scout is “dull” (not clever). Why does she think this, and is she right? Are all adults good at knowing how clever young people are? How does Aunt Alexandra involve herself in Maycomb's social life? Comment on Aunt Alexandra's ideas about breeding and family. Why does Atticus tell them to forget it? Who is right, do you think? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Chapter 14 Comment on Atticus's explanation of rape. How suitable is this as an answer to Scout. Why does Alexandra think Atticus should dismiss Calpurnia? How does Atticus respond to the suggestion? Why is Scout pleased when Jem fights her back? Why is she less pleased when he tells Atticus about Dill? What do we learn from Dill's account of his running away? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 14 Answers Comment on Atticus's explanation of rape. How suitable is this as an answer to Scout. Why does Alexandra think Atticus should dismiss Calpurnia? How does Atticus respond to the suggestion? Why is Scout pleased when Jem fights her back? Why is she less pleased when he tells Atticus about Dill? What do we learn from Dill's account of his running away? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Chapter 15 What is the “nightmare” that now descends upon the children? What was (and is) the Ku Klux Klan? What do you think of Atticus's comment about it? How does Jem react when Atticus tells him to go home, and why? What persuades the lynching-party to give up their attempt on Tom's life? Comment on the way Scout affects events without realizing it at the time. Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 15 Answers What is the “nightmare” that now descends upon the children? What was (and is) the Ku Klux Klan? What do you think of Atticus's comment about it? How does Jem react when Atticus tells him to go home, and why? What persuades the lynching-party to give up their attempt on Tom's life? Comment on the way Scout affects events without realizing it at the time. Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Chapter 16 What “subtle change” does Scout notice in her father?
What sort of person is Dolphus Raymond? How does Reverend Skyes help the children see and hear the trial? Why does Miss Maudie refuse to go to the trial? Write a paragraph summarizing the events in this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 16 Answers What “subtle change” does Scout notice in her father? What sort of person is Dolphus Raymond? How does Reverend Skyes help the children see and hear the trial? Why does Miss Maudie refuse to go to the trial? Write a paragraph summarizing the events in this chapter.

Chapter 16 Important Quotations
“I was beginning to notice a subtle change in my father. . .when he said, ‘anything fit to say at the table’s fit to say in front of Calpurnia. She knows what she means to this family.’” (Lee 157) This quote is one of the more significant passages in chapter 16. It shows how truly important Calpurnia is in the Finch family. She has been a mother figure to Jem and Scout throughout their lives and she has raised them even more so than Atticus. It also shows that black and white can coexist, even in that time period, without the African American being treated like they are inferior.

“‘They don’t belong anywhere. Colored folks won’t have them because they’re half white; white folks won’t have them because they’re colored, so they’re just in-betweens, don’t belong anywhere.’” (Lee 161) This passage is about the mixed children in the South. They are very much alone, because they do not fit in with either the white or black communities. They may even face more prejudice because they are receiving it from both ends.

Chapter 17 What are the main points in Heck Tate’s evidence? What does Atticus show in his cross-examination of Sheriff Tate? What do we learn indirectly of the home life of the Ewell family in this chapter? Why does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to write out his own name? What does the jury see when he does this? Do you believe that this case would have come to trial today? Tell why or why not. What new technologies would the defense use today to prove Tom’s innocence? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 17 Answers What are the main points in Heck Tate’s evidence? What does Atticus show in his cross-examination of Sheriff Tate? What do we learn indirectly of the home life of the Ewell family in this chapter? Why does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to write out his own name? What does the jury see when he does this? Do you believe that this case would have come to trial today? Tell why or why not. What new technologies would the defense use today to prove Tom’s innocence? Write a paragraph summarizing this chapter.

Chapter 18 What might be the reason for Mayella’s crying in the court?
Name four specific things that we learn about Mayella in this chapter (besides the fact that she is a liar). How does Mayella react to Atticus’ politeness? Is she used to people being polite? What do Scout and Jem notice about Tom when he stands up? Why is this important? How well does Mr. Gilmer prove Tom’s guilt in the eyes of the reader (you) and in the eyes of the jury? Can you suggest why these may be different? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 18 Answers What might be the reason for Mayella’s crying in the court? Name four specific things that we learn about Mayella in this chapter (besides the fact that she is a liar). How does Mayella react to Atticus’ politeness? Is she used to people being polite? What do Scout and Jem notice about Tom when he stands up? Why is this important? How well does Mr. Gilmer prove Tom’s guilt in the eyes of the reader (you) and in the eyes of the jury? Can you suggest why these may be different? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 19 What made Tom visit the Ewell’s house in the first place?
Why does Scout think that Mayella Ewell was “the loneliest person in the world?” How does Dill react to this part of the trial? Why is this, in your opinion? Write a detailed description of Tom’s version of the faithful day. What are the differences between his version and Mayella’s version of the day’s events (this will serve as your paragraph summary).

English I Honors

Chapter 19 Answers What made Tom visit the Ewell’s house in the first place? Why does Scout think that Mayella Ewell was “the loneliest person in the world?” How does Dill react to this part of the trial? Why is this, in your opinion? Write a detailed description of Tom’s version of the faithful day. What are the differences between his version and Mayella’s version of the day’s events (this will serve as your paragraph summary).

Chapter 20 Scout says that “Mr. Dolphus Raymond was an evil man.” Is she right? Why or why not? In most states of the USA people who drink alcohol in public places are required to hide their bottle in a paper bag. Why does Dolphus Raymond hide Coca-Cola in a bag? What, according to Atticus, is the thing that Mayella has done wrong? Explain, in your own words, Atticus’ views on people being equal. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

“‘Atticus says cheating a colored man is ten times worse than cheating a white man,” “‘Says it’s the worst thing you can do.” (Lee 201) This is important because it shows how much respect Atticus has for both colored people and whites.

English I Honors

Forces of Change Chapters 6-20
As we read further into the novel, we gain a better understanding of its principal characters. A few chapters ago, you chose a character and created an Initial Character Sketch of that character. Today, you will continue with this assignment by describing the Forces of Change that have occurred to this character. You are going to begin by reviewing the first 20 chapters of To Kill A Mockingbird. Then, once you have brainstormed a few ideas that might have lead to the change in your character, you may begin to write your Forces of Change paragraph.

English I Honors

Chapter 20 Answers Scout says that “Mr. Dolphus Raymond was an evil man.” Is she right? Why or why not? In most states of the USA people who drink alcohol in public places are required to hide their bottle in a paper bag. Why does Dolphus Raymond hide Coca-Cola in a bag? What, according to Atticus, is the thing that Mayella has done wrong? Explain, in your own words, Atticus’ views on people being equal. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter QUIZ Atticus taught his children not to kill a mockingbird because it - A. is one of God's special creatures B. sings beautifully and harms no one C. brings good luck to those who truly listen to it "The bravest person I ever knew" was Atticus' description of - A. Aunt Alexandra B. Mrs. Dubose C. Reverend Sykes

Chapter 11-20 QUIZ The presence of Jem and Scout at the jail -
A. convinces Heck Tate of the need for a fair trial B. diverts the lynch mob from its purpose C. inadvertently endangers Atticus' life In the eyes of some blacks, Tom's fault was that he - A. tried to cross the color barrier B. showed pity for a white woman C. upset the black-white balance in Maycomb

Chapter QUIZ Part of the successful defense of Tom Robinson hinges on - I. his abnormal left hand II. the perjury of the eyewitness III. Atticus' skillful questioning of Bob Ewell A. I and II only B. I and III only C. II and III only

Chapter 21 What does Jem expect the verdict to be? Does Atticus think the same? What is unusual about how long it takes the jury to reach a verdict? Is the verdict predictable or not? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 21 Answers What does Jem expect the verdict to be? Does Atticus think the same? What is unusual about how long it takes the jury to reach a verdict? Is the verdict predictable or not? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 22 Although Atticus did not want his children in court, he defends Jem’s right to know what happened. Explain, in your own words, Atticus’s reasons for this. Why does Miss Maudie only bake two small cakes? Did she forget someone? Why did Judge Taylor “give” Atticus the Tom Robinson case? Why does Dill say that he will be a clown when he grows up? Do you think he will keep his ambition for long? Why does Bob Ewell feel so angry with Atticus? Do you think his threat is a real one? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 22 Although Atticus did not want his children in court, he defends Jem’s right to know what happened. Explain, in your own words, Atticus’s reasons for this. Why does Miss Maudie only bake two small cakes? Did she forget someone? Why did Judge Taylor “give” Atticus the Tom Robinson case? Why does Dill say that he will be a clown when he grows up? Do you think he will keep his ambition for long? Why does Bob Ewell feel so angry with Atticus? Do you think his threat is a real one? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 23 What do you think of Atticus’s reaction to Bob Ewell’s challenge? Should he have ignored Bob, retaliated, or done something else? What does Atticus tell Scout about why the jury took so long to convict Tom? At the end of this chapter, Jem forms a new theory about why Boo Radley has never left his house in years. What is this? How likely is it to be true, in your opinion? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 23 Answers What do you think of Atticus’s reaction to Bob Ewell’s challenge? Should he have ignored Bob, retaliated, or done something else? What does Atticus tell Scout about why the jury took so long to convict Tom? At the end of this chapter, Jem forms a new theory about why Boo Radley has never left his house in years. What is this? How likely is it to be true, in your opinion? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 24 Compare the reactions of Miss Maudie and the other ladies when Scout says she is wearing her “britches” under her dress. Explain briefly how Tom was killed. What is Atticus’s explanation for Tom’s attempted escape? How, in this chapter do we see Aunt Alexandria in a new light? How does Miss Maudie support her? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 24 Answers Compare the reactions of Miss Maudie and the other ladies when Scout says she is wearing her “britches” under her dress. Explain briefly how Tom was killed. What is Atticus’s explanation for Tom’s attempted escape? How, in this chapter do we see Aunt Alexandria in a new light? How does Miss Maudie support her? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 25 How does Maycomb react to news of Tom’s death?
Comment on the idea that Tom’s death was “typical”. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 25 Answers How does Maycomb react to news of Tom’s death?
Comment on the idea that Tom’s death was “typical”. Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 26 In her lesson on Hitler, Miss Gates says that “we (American people) don’t believe in persecuting anyone”. What seems odd to the reader about this claim? Why is Scout puzzled by Miss Gates’ disapproval of Hitler? Why does Scout’s question upset Jem? Is there a simple answer, or any answer to that question? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 26 Answers In her lesson on Hitler, Miss Gates says that “we (American people) don’t believe in persecuting anyone”. What seems odd to the reader about this claim? Why is Scout puzzled by Miss Gates’ disapproval of Hitler? Why does Scout’s question upset Jem? Is there a simple answer, or any answer to that question? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 27 What three things does Bob Ewell do that alarms Aunt Alexandra? Why, according to Atticus, does Bob Ewell bear a grudge? Which people does Ewell see as his enemies, and why? What was the purpose of the Halloween pageant? What practical joke had persuaded the grown ups to have an organized event? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 27 Answers What three things does Bob Ewell do that alarms Aunt Alexandra? Why, according to Atticus, does Bob Ewell bear a grudge? Which people does Ewell see as his enemies, and why? What was the purpose of the Halloween pageant? What practical joke had persuaded the grown ups to have an organized event? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 28 In Comment on the way this chapter reminds the reader of earlier events in the novel. Scout decided to keep her costume while walking home. How does this affect her understanding of what happens on the way? Why had Atticus not brought a chair for the man in the corner? Who might this stranger be? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 28 Answers In Comment on the way this chapter reminds the reader of earlier events in the novel. Scout decided to keep her costume while walking home. How does this affect her understanding of what happens on the way? Why had Atticus not brought a chair for the man in the corner? Who might this stranger be? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 29 What explanation does Atticus give for Bob Ewell’s attack?
What does Heck Tate give us as the reason for Bob Ewell’s attack? Do you think the sheriff’s explanation or Atticus’s is the more likely to be true? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 29 Answers What explanation does Atticus give for Bob Ewell’s attack? What does Heck Tate give us as the reason for Bob Ewell’s attack? Do you think the sheriff’s explanation or Atticus’s is the more likely to be true? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 30 Who does Atticus think caused Bob Ewell’s death?
Why does Heck Tate insist that Bob Ewell’s death was self-inflicted? In what way was this partly true? How does the writer describe, at the end of the story, Boo Radley? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 30 Answers Who does Atticus think caused Bob Ewell’s death?
Why does Heck Tate insist that Bob Ewell’s death was self-inflicted? In what way was this partly true? How does the writer describe, at the end of the story, Boo Radley? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

Chapter 31 How do the events of the final chapters explain the first sentence in the whole novel? How does Scout make sense of an earlier remark of Atticus’s as she stands on the Radley porch? At the end of the novel, Atticus reads to Scout. Comment on his choice of story. Does it have any connection with themes in the novel and in its ending? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

Chapter 31 Answers How do the events of the final chapters explain the first sentence in the whole novel? How does Scout make sense of an earlier remark of Atticus’s as she stands on the Radley porch? At the end of the novel, Atticus reads to Scout. Comment on his choice of story. Does it have any connection with themes in the novel and in its ending? Write a one paragraph summary of this chapter.

English I Honors

An Introduction to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

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An Introduction to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

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