Coming of Age
How does Scout’s idea of right and wrong change as she grows up?
She learns that the world is not always fair and that adults can make unfair choices. She understands that morality is more complicated than she thought as a child.
How does Tom Robinson’s trial show racial injustice in Maycomb?
Because Tom is clearly innocent, but the jury convicts him only because he is Black. The evidence proves he didn’t attack Mayella, but racism is stronger than truth in the courtroom.
What does the mockingbird symbolize in the story?
Innocence and kindness, people who do no harm and only try to help others. Hurting a mockingbird means hurting someone who is innocent.
How does meeting Boo Radley show Scout’s growth?
Scout finally sees Boo as a real person, not a monster from stories. This shows she has learned empathy and can look beyond rumors.
Why do the townspeople assume Tom is guilty before the trial starts?
They assume he’s guilty because of deep racial prejudice. In Maycomb, many white people believe a Black man must be lying or dangerous, even without proof.
How are both Tom Robinson and Boo Radley like mockingbirds?
Tom is innocent but is destroyed by racism. Boo is harmless and kind, but people judge him unfairly. Both are good people who suffer for things they didn’t do.
What does Scout learn about how society expects girls to behave?
She learns society wants girls to act “proper,” but she starts choosing which expectations matter to her instead of copying what everyone says.
How does the verdict affect Jem’s view of the world?
Jem loses trust in the justice system. He thought courts were fair, but the verdict shows him that adults can be unfair and racist. It hurts him emotionally.
What does the knot-hole symbol mean?
The knot-hole shows Boo’s attempt to reach out and make a connection. It becomes a quiet way for Boo and the children to communicate.
How does Jem’s experience with Mrs. Dubose change his understanding of what “real courage” means?
Jem learns that real courage is not physical strength or winning. It is choosing to do something difficult even when you know you might fail. This changes how he views adults and challenges.
How does Atticus challenge the racist beliefs of the community?
Atticus defends Tom honestly, treats him with respect, and shows the town that everyone deserves a fair trial. He refuses to follow the racist norms and teaches his children to think differently.
How does the camellia that Mrs. Dubose leaves for Jem work as a symbol for moral courage?
The camellia represents real courage and fighting your own battles even when you know you may lose. It means more to Jem because it’s a physical sign that Mrs. Dubose forgave him.
How does Calpurnia’s double life reveal to the children that identity can change depending on social spaces?
At her church, Calpurnia speaks and behaves differently. This forces Scout and Jem to understand that adults adjust their identity to survive in society.
Why does Maycomb give more power to dishonest white people like the Ewells than to innocent Black people like Tom Robinson?
Because Maycomb has a strict racial order where white people are always seen as “above” Black people. Even dishonest white people have more power just because of their race. This shows racism is a social rule, not just personal hate.
What does the mad dog represent?
The mad dog represents danger spreading through Maycomb, especially racism. Atticus facing the dog shows he is willing to confront that danger.