To Kill a Mockingbird Essay - Issues Which Are Still Relevent in Todays Society.
‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee explores several different issues which are still relevant in today’s society. Harper Lee uses conventions within the novel to convey these ideas. The three main issues Lee explores are; Importance of Moral Education, Prejudice and Bravery and Courage.
Lee explores the theme of the Importance of Moral Education throughout the novel. This idea is still relevant in today’s society as we all face moral decisions which shape who we are. Harper Lee investigates this idea through the use of characterisation. Lee uses characterisation very effectively and particularly uses Atticus Finch and Calpurnia to portray this. Ever since Jem and Scout were at an early age Atticus would read to them and slowly over time they learnt how to read themselves. Whilst doing this, Atticus also attempted to raise his children with good values and morals mainly by leading by example and opening his children’s eyes to many taboo subjects such as racism. Atticus’ belief was that all human beings must be accepted and treated equally. One example from the text is in chapter nine when Scout realises Atticus wanted her to hear the conversation in the living room, "I never figured out how Atticus knew I was listening, and it was not until many years later that I realised he wanted me to hear every word he said."
To achieve this Atticus tries to be patient with Scout, which contrasts against Ms Carolines methods. Although Atticus disapproved with Ms Carolines methods he did not argue over it, simply thought of ways around the situation. This taught Scout to show respect towards people, and if she doesn’t agree with them it’s not her place to tell them so. Calpurnia is another example of characterisation used in the novel. After an incident involving Scout and Walter during school, Jem felt obliged to invite Walter home for dinner – seeing as he needed a healthy meal. At the dinner table Walter aggravated Scout with his eating habits causing Scout to
Lee explores the theme of the Importance of Moral Education throughout the novel. This idea is still relevant in today’s society as we all face moral decisions which shape who we are. Harper Lee investigates this idea through the use of characterisation. Lee uses characterisation very effectively and particularly uses Atticus Finch and Calpurnia to portray this. Ever since Jem and Scout were at an early age Atticus would read to them and slowly over time they learnt how to read themselves. Whilst doing this, Atticus also attempted to raise his children with good values and morals mainly by leading by example and opening his children’s eyes to many taboo subjects such as racism. Atticus’ belief was that all human beings must be accepted and treated equally. One example from the text is in chapter nine when Scout realises Atticus wanted her to hear the conversation in the living room, "I never figured out how Atticus knew I was listening, and it was not until many years later that I realised he wanted me to hear every word he said."
To achieve this Atticus tries to be patient with Scout, which contrasts against Ms Carolines methods. Although Atticus disapproved with Ms Carolines methods he did not argue over it, simply thought of ways around the situation. This taught Scout to show respect towards people, and if she doesn’t agree with them it’s not her place to tell them so. Calpurnia is another example of characterisation used in the novel. After an incident involving Scout and Walter during school, Jem felt obliged to invite Walter home for dinner – seeing as he needed a healthy meal. At the dinner table Walter aggravated Scout with his eating habits causing Scout to