To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee explores the issue of racism in southern America during the 1930s. The story is narrated through Scout Finch, a young girl who is compassionate and curious, and her father, Atticus Finch, a lawyer who defends a black man falsely accused of rape. Scout’s innocence is challenged when she realizes the prejudices of her community towards marginalized groups, such as Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. The book highlights the pervasive and systemic nature of racism, which Atticus fights against despite being ostracized by some of his neighbors. The novel highlights the importance of compassion, empathy, and justice for all.
Scout Finch vs. Society: An Exploration of Racism in To Kill a Mockingbird
Introduction
To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel written by Harper Lee in 1960, which addresses the issue of racism in the southern United States. The book tells the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in Alabama during the 1930s, and her interactions with members of her community, including her father Atticus Finch, a lawyer who defends a black man accused of rape.
Scout Finch
Scout Finch is the narrator of To Kill a Mockingbird and is the representation of innocence and curiosity. She is a young girl who is sensitive to the idea of justice and fairness, and is able to explore the complexities of racism in her community. Scout is a character who is compassionate towards others and is often the only one in the novel who sees racism as wrong.
Scout’s Innocence
Scout’s innocence is evident throughout the novel, particularly in her interactions with her neighbor Boo Radley. Scout is intrigued by Boo Radley, and over the course of the novel, she discovers his good nature and humanity. However, her innocence is challenged when she realizes that society’s view of Boo Radley is colored by prejudice and stereotypes.
Scout’s Empathy
Scout is able to empathize with others, particularly those who are marginalized in society. For example, Scout befriends Tom Robinson’s family and sees them as people, not just as victims of racism. She is also able to see the good in people, such as when she befriends the elderly Mrs. Dubose, who is known for her harsh words and behavior.
Society
The society depicted in To Kill a Mockingbird is one that is deeply divided by racism. The white community is portrayed as being racist towards blacks, with many of the characters holding archaic views about race and ethnicity.
Racism
The racism portrayed in To Kill a Mockingbird is pervasive and systemic. The story shows how people in the white community view black people as inferior, and how they use stereotypes to justify their discriminatory behavior. This racism is evidenced in the trial of Tom Robinson, where Atticus Finch argues that Tom is innocent but is unable to convince the all-white jury, who ultimately convict him.
Atticus Finch’s Role in Society
Atticus Finch is a lawyer, and as such, he is supposed to uphold the law and protect the rights of everyone. However, in the society portrayed by To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus’ defense of Tom Robinson is seen as a betrayal by his community. Atticus is harassed and ostracized by some of his neighbors because of his stance on racism, which shows how difficult it was to fight against the systemic racism in the southern United States.
Conclusion
To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful novel that explores the complexities of racism in the United States. Through the character of Scout Finch, the book shows us the importance of compassion, empathy, and innocence in the face of hate and discrimination. The novel also highlights how difficult it is to challenge systemic racism, and the importance of people like Atticus Finch, who despite the odds, continues to fight for justice and equality for all.