To Kill a Mockingbird: Section IV - Zain Sherriff

This last section really wrapped up the book by connecting everything that was mentioned earlier in the book together.  On the very first page of the novel for example, Jem's broken arm is mentioned.  In this final section it is revealed how Jem's arm was broken (after being attacked by Mr. Ewell), which is linked to the revelation regarding Boo Radley and his identity.  I really enjoyed how the final section of the novel was able to effectively tie together the previous sections, while answering many, but not all questions that the reader may have.  I was very taken aback by Jem's line about Boo Radley, explaining that the reason he stays inside his house constantly is because he wants to, given the prejudice and discrimination of Maycomb.

To Kill a Mockingbird: Section III - Zain Sherriff

To me, this section revolved around the idea of injustice, and not just because of the guilty verdict. From the contrasts drawn between Atticus and Bob Ewell and also Tom Robinson and Bob Ewell, to the presence of a "colored balcony", every detail in this chapter hinted at how unjust society in Maycomb was over the issue of race.  These issues definitely touch Scout, Jem, and Dill as well. All three understand the injustice that is being wrought by the town, and are moved by it to the point that they leave the courtroom.  I don't think that the children are opposed to such racial injustice because of any kind of youthful innocence, but rather that they understand, like Atticus does, how prejudiced the town is.

To Kill a Mockingbird: Section II - Zain Sherriff

I was very intrigued by the almost "supernatural" winter that hit Maycomb and the fire at Miss Maudie's house as the two events seemed to foreshadow both the tremendous change and division that was to follow during the trial of Tom Robinson.  During this same time period as well, Scout and Jem really begin to grow up and develop.  I think this section also focused more on the views of Atticus and his family over controversial issues such as race and how they were causing the beginning of a divide in Maycomb, shown in the interactions of Scout and Jem with people such as Mrs. Dubose and their relative, Francis.

To Kill a Mockingbird: Section I - Zain Sherriff

I found it fascinating how Harper Lee introduced the town of Maycomb.  It is a small town, though I don't think it is one that necessarily has a strong sense of community, given how the town is made up of people with diverging interests coming from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds.  One prominent example involved Atticus and Mr. Cunningham, in which Mr. Cunningham paid for Atticus's service with farm goods instead of money.  This interaction between Atticus, a lawyer, and Mr. Cunningham, a farmer, provided a clear view of the different "classes" that make up Maycomb. Even Scout and Jem, children, seemed aware of these differences and had to explain them to their teacher, an "outsider" from Northern Alabama.

To Kill a Mockingbird : Section III -- Ben Drake

Section III : Reflection

In section three, the racial divisions in Maycomb come to the forefront, culminating in the trials of Tom Robinson. The trial brings to a climax the main themes of the story. In brilliant oration, Atticus is both a fighter against injustice and a symbol of maturity. That the verdict was 'guilty' when the evidence clearly showed innocence was frustrating. It was clear that the jury felt guilty themselves, not looking at Tom as they shuffled back into the court room. I was mad that Mayella got away with it, even though it was clear she was lying! I think the outrage that the trial elicits is Harper Lee's way of sensitizing the reader to racial injustice. Of all the chapters in the book, these were definitely the most deeply affecting.

To Kill a Mockingbird : Section IV -- Ben Drake

Section IV : Reflection

When Jem breaks his arm, we are brought back to the present. The first chapter of To Kill a Mockingbird starts with mention of Jem's broken arm. Throughout the story, an 'older Scout' is narrating, recounting the events as she saw them. With Jem's arm, Harper Lee brings the narrative 'full-circle' to the present. Scout shows her rebellious streak and sensitivity to justice when she stands up to her teacher's hypocrisy. Her interactions with Boo Radley also show how much she has matured since the beginning of the story. Atticus told her to accept people's differences, and Scout embraces this advice wholeheartedly by not shutting out Boo.

I never had much taste for 'historical fiction'. I was always interested in more imaginative worlds. I must admit, though, that To Kill a Mockingbird was a compelling story.

To Kill a Mockingbird : Section II -- Ben Drake

Section II : Reflection

In the second section the story loses its emphasis on background and setting, moving forward with the adventures of Scout and Jem. It is apparent throughout this section that both children are 'growing up', becoming more mature and aware of social—even political—issues in the town. There is a perceptible tension building between the development of Scout and Jem and the town's traditional culture. While the children grow, Maycomb remains rooted with staunch resistance to change. In all likelihood, it is this change-tradition conflict that will drive the story to its climax. Through Atticus, Harper Lee is able to convey her thoughts on racism to the reader, developing the theme of injustice.