English Study Guide Questions
What is learned about Jem and Scout from their diverse reaction to the pennies in the knot-hole? (Ch 4)
? While both are curious, both are immature... in different ways. Jem's immaturity is seen as he "deeply thinks" about the situation, though thinking in terms of superstitions.
What techniques are used to establish a feeling of mystery to the first chapter (Ch 1)
A feeling of mystery is created through descriptions and references to the Radley house and the "phantom" that lives within. Scout describes the house in a way that makes the reader think of a traditional haunted house and Jem's description of Boo is more likely to create an image of a monster than a person.
Explain the symbolic meaning of the mockingbird. (Ch 10)
A mockingbird does nothing to harm anyone. If something does'n't harm you, then you should'n't harm them. In this case, the children do not shoot at the mockingbirds with their toy gun because the bird did not do anything to them.
As the nature of Mrs. Dubose's afflictions is discovered, what is learned about her character? (Ch 11)
As it becomes more apparent, it is learned that she is a woman of great strength and courage. Her illness in the past has caused doctors to prescribe painkillers which led to her morphine addiction. When she realizes she has a short time left, she wants to "kick her habit." Her decision to die free greatly increases her physical agony, but her moral strength and courage triumph.
What details in this chapter and the last add to the mounting tension before Jem and Scout are attacked? (Ch 28)
At the close of the preceding chapter, Scout explains her relative immobility in her "ham" costume and the fact that she is trapped inside of it. Secondly, Aunt Alexandra is slightly apprehensive about letting the children go without an adult. All of the setting details contribute to the tension in this chapter - Halloween; moonless night; strange shadows; schoolyard is black as pitch; tree stands like a hoary Druid. Jem talks of "haints" on their way to school. Scout trips on a root growing in the road. Cecil Jacobs jumps out and scares them. Scout forgets her shoes, turns to go back and the lights in the auditorium go out. They are alone.
Give Atticus' interpretation of recent events. (Ch 23)
Atticus believes that Bob Ewell is threatening him because the Ewells have not had much credibility in the community and, in court, Atticus took away the very little credibility Bob may have had. Atticus pushes himself to "stand in Bob Ewell's shoes" and realizes that Bob will seek revenge when he can most easily obtain it. If spitting in his face spares Mayella a beating, Atticus is glad to endure the insult. Atticus attributes the verdict the geographical location of the trial. He knew it would be an acquittal or nothing since Tom Robinson is black. Atticus is enraged by the idea of a man convicting another man purely on circumstantial evidence. He knows that racism is what stepped between the jurors and their reasoning. However, he does see a shadow of a beginning in the unusually long jury deliberation.
Why did Tom try to escape? (Ch 24)
Atticus concludes that Tom was tired of "white man's chances" and decided to take his own. Tom was not treated as an individual in court nor in prison. As a result, he lost his sense of individuality and decided to take his life into his own hands.
What is the thematic significance of the advice Atticus gives to Scout? (Ch 3)
Atticus implores her to consider things from other people's point of view, showing compassion and empathy.
How to people react to the fire at Miss Maudie's house? (Ch 8)
Atticus is a calm spectator, which Jem tries to emulate. Other attempt to be helpful, as fire trucks come from up to 60 miles away.
What is Atticus actually condemning in his closing remarks to the jury? What is the target of Atticus' final plea? (Ch 20)
Atticus is condemning the age-old, strict social code that creates haunting guilt in a person who breaks it making him/her go to great lengths to condemn another person in order to escape that personal guilt. Atticus also condemns the idea that all blacks lie, are immoral and are not to be trusted with white women. He also condemns the denial of the one source of equality - the courtroom - through the presence of prejudice. The target of Atticus' final plea is the individual conscience of the jurors. He hopes to make them see Tom Robinson as an individual, not just a black man. Atticus wants the jurors to stand in Robinson's shoes. He hopes to prevent mob-mentality in the jury room.
What can be deduced about the character of Atticus from his defense of Tom Robinson? (Ch 9)
Atticus takes a personal interest in the Tom Robinson case; he says every lawyer has one case like this in his lifetime. He must defend Tom Robinson to remain true to his convictions. Atticus knows that he is not going to "win", but he doesn't think that is a reason to not try. He must undertake the defense to maintain his own integrity. Atticus is a man of conscience and compassion.
What does Atticus attempt to establish through Bob Ewell's testimony? (Ch 17)
Atticus wants to reaffirm the fact that no one got Mayella a doctor after the alleged attack. Also, the jury sees that Bob Ewell is left-handed and that he could have been the one that attacked Mayella.
Contrast Aunt Alexandria and Atticus (Ch 9)
Aunt Alexandra is only concerned with appearances and shallow traditions. Atticus is concerned with people's character, not superficial manners and dress.
What insight is gained into Aunt Alex's character? (Ch 24)
Aunt Alexandra reveals that she is loyal to her brother, though she might not approve of what he does. She believes that much of what he is forced to do is the "dirty work" of the town. After she speaks candidly in the kitchen, Alexandra returns to the dining room, composed and cordial. Scout is impressed with her aunt and attempts to emulate her ladylikeness.
Cite examples of prejudice and lack of human understanding. (Ch 14)
Aunt Alexandra suggests that Atticus release Calpurnia from their service a lack of human understanding is revealed. Aunty's motivation seems to be that Scout is too close to Calpurnia, but Atticus assures his sister that the closeness is as he wants it to be.
Discuss the credibility of Boo's defense of Jem and Scout. (Ch 29)
Boo has demonstrated his care and concern for the children several times throughout the novel - the treasures in the tree, the mending of Jem's pants, and the blanket around Scout's shoulders are just a few examples. It is also credible that Boo is capable of killing Bob Ewell, due to the rumored violent attack with scissors. Also, Jem mentioned Boo for the first time in a long time on that evening as Scout and he walked to school, bringing his presence to the forefront again.
Contrast Burris Ewell with the other children. What is the reason for the description? (Ch 3)
Burris is contrasted by both physical descriptions and his family's background. Scout remarks he is the dirtiest person she has ever seen, and Ms. Caroline's desire to protect the other kids implies they are clean.
What thematically related insights do Scout and Dill receive outside the courtroom? (Ch 20)
Dill and Scout speak to Dolphus Raymond. From him, they learn that things are not always as they appear on the outside. Mr. Raymond explains that sometimes people are more comfortable in their thinking if they have reasons on which to hang their prejudices. It is important to note that Mr. Raymond shares his deepest secret with Scout and Dill because they are children (innocence).
Why is it significant that Dill should be the one to get sick in the courtroom? (Ch 19)
Dill is the outsider and a child, therefore human degradation is new and too overwhelming for him. Jem doesn't react because he is at a stage where he "intellectualizes" everything and Scout is still too literal.
What 3 incidents concerning Ewell occur? From these incidents and from Atticus, what do we learn about Bob Ewell? (Ch 27)
He is fired from the WPA for laziness. He unsuccessfully attempts to burglarize Judge Taylor's house. He harasses Helen Robinson on her way to work.
What is significant about Jem's decision to make a lone, nocturnal return to the Radley place? What is significant outcome of the return? (Ch 6)
It creates a high point of interest/suspense due to the threat of a prowler and the mysteriousness of his pants being mended and folded. It also demonstrates his respect for Atticus, though it might come across as fearful.
Explain the manner of narration (Ch 1)
It is first person in the view of Scout looking back on her childhood.
What is significant about the town's conclusion regarding the disturbance at the Radley place? (Ch 6)
It must have been a Negro.
Explain Jem's reason for following Atticus to town. (Ch 15)
Jem is concerned with his father's safety. He admits to Scout that he is afraid someone might hurt their father. When Atticus takes the car to town, a rare occurrence, on the evening before the trial, it is strange enough to Jem that he feels the need to follow him.
What accounts for the changed relationship between Jem and Scout? (Ch 12)
Jem is now twelve years old and is experiencing many changes that Scout can't understand. Jem wants to spend more time on his own or with boys his own age. He is moody and, with Scout, he is a know-it-all
What does Jem gain from his experience with Mrs. Dubose? (Ch 11)
Jem learns what real courage is. Courage is when a person hand on tenaciously despite the fact that from the outset he knows he is licked. In addition, Jem and Scout learn a lesson about tolerance
Cite examples which demonstrate Jem's continuing maturity. (Ch 23)
Jem's legal discussions with his father. Jem questions things, rather than just accepting them. Jem comforts and consoles his sister. Jem attempts to keep the peace and urges Scout to see things from Aunty's point of view. Jem thinks about human nature and determines there are different kinds of "folks." Jem is starting to be more and more like Atticus
Why is it significant that Jem has been crying? (Ch 7)
Jem's tears reveal that, unlike Scout, he assumes it was the kindness of Boo and he may have been reaching out due to loneliness, but that is no longer available.
What characteristics of the children in general are revealed thru the Boo Radley game? Why does'n't scout enjoy the games as much as the boys do? (Ch 4)
Kids are curious, imaginative, insensitive (unintentionally cruel), and often fearful of adult authority Scout doesn't want to offend Boo because he may be watching
What characteristics does Miss Maudie show following the fire? (Ch 8)
Maudie is brave and optimistic.
What functions does Miss Maudie Atkinson serve in the novel? (Ch 5)
Maudie serves as exposure to "ladylike" behaviors and thoughts, seen in Scout's comments about her character, especially as Jem and Dill exclude her from their play. She also juxtaposes Stephanie Crawford, the neighborhood gossip
What does Mayella's testimony add to the case? (Ch 18)
Mayella's testimony reveals her motivation for accusing Tom Robinson of the crime. Her reactions to Atticus' questions and her answers depict a terrible, almost animalistic home-life where each person struggles to survive illness, hunger and abuse. Atticus reveals Mayella's loneliness to the jury which motivated her to seek out Tom for companionship. Mayella has difficulty keeping her story straight.
What satirical points are made on the subject of education? (Ch 26)
Miss Gates' requirement of mechanical recitation on the subject of "Democracy" Miss Gates is prejudiced against Negroes, but disapproves of Hitler's persecution of the Jews Scout discusses the inequities inflicted on rural children by their backgrounds and setting when putted in competition against advantages "urban" children - demonstrating teachers tendency to favor students with backgrounds most like their own.
What hope and what fear are expressed at the end of chapter 22?
Miss Maudie expresses that even though Tom Robinson was convicted, she hopes that some prejudice was eradicated. She alludes to the fact that Atticus was able to keep the jury out for so long which she sees a small step in the right direction. Bob Ewell threatening Atticus
What insights do Jem and Scout gain from attending church with Calpurnia? (Ch 12)
More importantly, Scout and Jem see a different side to Calpurnia. They find out that Calpurnia has a long history with the Finch family and that she learned to read (and taught her son to read) from a book given to her by Atticus' father. Calpurnia also reiterates Atticus sentiments that it is not necessary to tell people everything one knows - arrogance is not flattering.
What are the effects of the chapter's main events on Atticus, Jem, and Scout? (Ch 10)
Most importantly, in this chapter, the children learn to see their father in a different light. When the chapter opens, Jem and Scout view their father as old and feeble. To them, he lacks admirable characteristics because he is not physically active. What they do not realize until the end is that Atticus is a true gentleman; he does not flaunt his accomplishments and abilities. When Atticus drops the approaching "mad dog" with a single shot, it is a revelation to Jem and Scout. This is the man that would not teach them to shoot - Ol' One-Shot. The children are proud of his courage and skill.
How is the feeling of apprehension conveyed at the end of the chapter? (Ch 25)
Mr. Ewell's comment that Tom Robinson's death is only one and that another death is imminent creates a feeling of apprehension and tension. The threat refreshes the reader's memory of the Ewell's vow at the end of Chapter 22.
What causes Jem to strike out against Mrs. Dubose? (Ch 11)
Mrs. Dubose is a sickly and sour old lady who says nasty things to Jem and Scout whenever they pass by. Mrs. Dubose does not agree with the way that Atticus is raising the children, and she tells the children so. Her reference to their deceased mother are especially upsetting to Jem. Once Mrs. Dubose lashes out against Atticus his defense of Tom Robinson, Jem has had enough and strikes out by destroying her camellia buds.
In reference to Dill, what pessimistic note does Dolphus Raymond cast? What is the implication of the remark? (Ch 20)
Raymond predicts that when Dill gets older things may strike him as not being quite right, but he will not react as emotionally, which implies that children harden as they become adults and are less concerned and less compassionate with age.
Why does the group at the jail disperse after Scout's talk? (Ch 15)
Scout causes Mr. Cunningham to see the situation through Atticus' eye (sound familiar?!). She innocently talks to Mr. Cunningham about his son Walter, which touches him and allows his to feel a common parental pride and protectiveness. Mr. Cunningham then feels shame for endangering Atticus' children and disperses the mob. Scout weakens the mob by reminding them of their individuality. She destroys the "mob mentality" and "crowd courage."
In what way does Scout demonstrate sensitivity and compassion in the previous and final chapter? (Ch 31)
Scout demonstrates her compassion and sensitivity when she courteously talks to Arthur and guides him about the house to the porch. This is furthered when she allows him the role of gentleman as she take his arm for a stroll back to his home. This in contrast to leading him and allowing for another humiliating and embarrassing situation for him. Once inside his house, she turns to see the neighborhood as he saw it. She slips into his shoes, as Atticus has urged her to do. It is then she feels sorrow for how she has not given commensurately to Boo for all he has given her, including her life.
Further contrast Dill's home life with Scout's (Ch 14)
Scout determines that Dill's parents must be mean to him and he feels rejected. Dill denies they are mean. However, clearly they give him everything but themselves, and so he feels unneeded.
Why does Scout explain Walter Cunningham's situtation to Miss Caroline? (Ch 2)
Scout explains to her teacher Miss Caroline that Walter is too proud to borrow money because she tries to lend him a quarter for lunch. Miss Caroline is not from Maycomb. She is from Northern Alabama and does not understand how things work.
Why does Scout cry after returning home from jail? How does Jem's treatment of Scout show his maturity? (Ch 16)
Scout is scared about Atticus's safety and she truly understands the impact of what happened once they got home. Jem knows that he needs to comfort his sister, so he allows her to sleep in his room. Jem realizes that Atticus is too emotionally drained to comfort Scout, so he takes over. He lets Scout cry and release her feelings.
Why is Scout confused after overhearing remarks about her father's defense of Tom Robinson? (Ch 16)
Scout learns that Atticus was appointed to defend Tom Robinson, not just that he has chosen to do so. She learns that the white community is upset with Atticus because he intends to do a thorough job of the defense. She is confused why Atticus has not told Jem and her of his appointment. She is further confused about why the town is upset that Atticus has chosen to do what only seems natural to Scout, that is to do the best job he possibly can.
How does Scout know the verdict before it is read? What is the broader implication of the jury's behavior? (Ch 21)
Scout notices that when the jury returns to the courtroom none of them look at Tom Robinson. As the child of a lawyer, she knows that a jury never looks at a defendant that they have convicted. The broader implication is that there is a collective guilt they feel for their verdict.
Discuss Scout's comment about the mockingbird in relation to Boo Radley. (Ch 30)
Scout's reassuring comment to her father shows the level of compassion she has achieved, internalizing and applying prior advice to the new situation, making a moral decision to protect the harmless.
What devices does the author use in Ch 17 to characterize the Ewell's, especially Bob.? (Ch 17)
Setting, Direct explanation, reactions from other characters, and behavior/speech
Discuss the attack and the events that follow. (Ch 28)
Somebody begins to follow the children home after the program. Scout and Jem think its Cecil Jacobs trying to scare them again. They slow down, "proving" their lack of fear. Jem and Scout stop by the lone oak to assess the noise when they realize it's not Cecil, they recognize the sound as an adult running toward them. Jem and Scout take off running and Scout loses her balance and falls. She hears scuffling but can't identify the source. Jem tries to help her up, but she feels Jem being pulled away from her. Then she hears an awful crunching sound and Jem's scream. Scout runs in the direction of the scream but finds herself in the arms of someone trying to squeeze the breath out of her. Suddenly, Scout's attacker is jerked away. There are more scuffling sounds followed by a violent wheezing. She stumbles into a body on the ground. As Scout finds the direction home, she sees someone ahead of her carrying Jem, his arm dangling in front of him. Aunty makes an affectionate fuss over Scout, who is more concerned about Jem. Dr. Reynolds and Heck Tate arrive. Jem has a broken arm and Bob Ewell lies dead with a kitchen knife stuck in his ribs.
What is the function of relating the Finch family history at the outset of the novel? (Ch 1)
The author chooses for the narrator to share the Finch family history to describe the traditional nature of Southern life at the time. A person's heritage (what family they come from, where they come from, what their family is "known" for) was used to determine a person's status or form an impression about that person without knowing them. The fact that Atticus and his brother broke tradition and left the "Landing" to become a lawyer and a doctor indicates that they are "rebels" or do not follow tradition.
What comic incident is related in this chapter and what function does it serve in the novel? (Ch 27)
The comic incident of Misses Tutti and Frutti's hidden furniture gives cause for the Maycomb organized Halloween celebration. It serves to contrast the tension in the town that has built up and will come to a head in the next chapter.
Contrast the two groups of men Atticus faces. (Ch 15)
The group that gathers in Atticus' front yard are led by Heck Tate and come in friendship to warn Atticus of the trouble brewing among the Old Sarum bunch (KKK). The men fear that they will do something bad to Atticus. The mob that gathers outside of the jail is not the everyday people that Jem and Scout are used to seeing. The mob smells of pigpens and whiskey. The Old Sarum bunch intend to lynch Tom Robinson. However, Scout breaks the tension and defeats the intent of the mob with her innocent chatter to Mr. Cunningham.
What finally forces Jem over the threshold toward adulthood? What symbolic incident occurs that testifies to Jem's move toward adulthood? (Ch 22)
The jury convicting Tom Robinson is what pushes Jem over the threshold towards adulthood. Until the verdict, Jem had an idealistic view of society, justice and individual integrity. Miss Maudie usually bakes three small cakes for the children and one large cake for the adults. This time she overlooks Jem and only bakes small cakes for Scout and Dill; Jem has a slice of the big cake
What bewildering incidents occur to Jem and Scout? (Ch 7)
The kids find more trinket is the knot-hole, until it is cemented by Nathan Radley because it's dying.
What elements heighten the contrast between Atticus and Aunt Alexandra? (Ch 13)
The main contrast between the two is strongly revealed when Atticus agrees to speak to the children about their family name, as directed by Aunt Alexandra. Atticus is very uncomfortable with forcing heredity on the children and the children sense it. As a result, they feel totally disconnected from their father and react very strongly to all of the change Aunt Alexandra is trying to create.
Cite examples of contrast in Jem and Scout (Ch 3)
The major difference is in their treatment of Walter Cunningham. Scout takes revenge on Walter for the trouble his family's reputation caused her; however, Jem treats Walter with respect grown out of actual experience of the Cunningham family attributes. This is further seen in Scout openly criticizing Walter's eating habits which are, to her, odd.
Why is Jem unable to speak about the trial without becoming angered? (Ch 26)
The trial is still very recent and raw for Jem. Atticus explains that Jem needs to set it aside until enough time has passed that he can place the events into perspective. *Atticus' statement also explains Harper Lee's choice of a reflective narrator.
What is ironic about the missionary circle's conversation? (Ch 24)
The women in the missionary circle are very concerned with the problems of an African tribe, but fail to see how they perpetuate prejudice and poverty in their own town. The women are capable of compassion when it is far away and does not require them to soil their white hands. They are hypocrites who view themselves as "good Christians." It is also ironic when Aunty tells Scout that the "business part" of the meeting will bore her, so she is to join them for the social hour. However, Scout finds the socializing superficial and depressing.
What does Atticus attempt to establish through Heck Tate's testimony? (Ch 17)
There has been no medical confirmation of Mayella's alleged assault. Mayella's attacker was left-handed since the majority of her injuries were on her right side according to Tate's testimony.
What does Maycomb's turnout for the trial imply about human nature? (Ch 16)
There is a morbid curiosity inherent in human nature. Miss Maudie calls it a "Roman carnival." People are wearing fine clothes and picnicking. However, among the black community, there are few women and children which contrasts to the "holiday" mood of the white community and reveals their attitude toward the trial.
Discuss the mockingbird symbol in relation to Tom Robinson. (Ch 25)
To most of Maycomb, Tom Robinson's death is expected. The incident supports Maycomb's prejudices. However, Mr. Underwood seeks to show his supporters another side with an editorial in the newspaper. He writes simply enough for children to understand, hoping to reach as many people as possible. It is Mr. Underwood's belief that cripples should not be killed under any circumstances. He says that Tom Robinson was a mockingbird - Tom's death was like the senseless slaughter of songbirds by heartless hunters.
What situation do both Atticus and Scout recognize? (Ch 30)
Upon Heck's insistence, both Atticus and Scout see the necessity of protecting Arthur. And despite the poetic justice of Bob's death, dragging Boo into a prolonged nightmare may not only damage him but provide Maycomb with even more fodder and gossip.
What insight is gained into Heck Tate's character? (Ch 30)
We get to know that Heck Tate is a responsible sheriff before the fateful Halloween night. He knows his own limitations enough to hand over his rifle to Atticus to kill the mad dog, and we know that the two men have a friendly if professional association: Atticus calls him "Heck," but the sheriff always refers to Atticus as "Mr. Finch"--a sure sign of respect. After learning of Bob Ewell's death, we also find that he has a good heart, since he puts his job on the line by willing to officially declare Bob's death accidental by "falling on his own knife." He knows before Atticus that Boo is the killer, though certainly in self-defense. Boo could never be prosecuted successfully since he heroically saved the children from a drunken killer who had publicly made threats against Atticus and his family. Heck recognizes that Bob's death is a godsend to the town, and that Maycomb will be a better place without him.
In what way does Jem break the one remaining code of childhood? (Ch 14)
When Jem reveals Dill's presence to Atticus he has broken the childhood "code" and has become a "tattletale."
What startling revelation is made about Tom? (Ch 18)
When Tom stands up, everyone in the court can see that he is crippled on his left side. His left arm is twelve inches shorter than his right arm and it hangs useless at his side, ending in a small, shriveled hand. He was injured as a child, picking cotton for Dolphus Raymond.
Scout acquires an important realization during Tom's testimony. Discuss the realization and its significance. (Ch 19)
Witnessing the trial is a great exercise in empathy for Scout. As she listens she realizes that Mayella must be lonelier than Boo Radley, who has been isolated for 25 years. She also realizes that there are people who are caught by their own circumstances and don't "fit in" anywhere in the world. She understands that Tom was only trying to be nice to Mayella and that, for some people, kindess is so uncommon that they don't know how to handle it and react with hostility.
What tragic racial situation is illustrated in this chapter? How does it apply to the theme? (Ch 19)
Witnessing the trial is a great exercise in empathy for Scout. As she listens she realizes that Mayella must be lonelier than Boo Radley, who has been isolated for 25 years. She also realizes that there are people who are caught by their own circumstances and don't "fit in" anywhere in the world. She understands that Tom was only trying to be nice to Mayella and that, for some people, kindess is so uncommon that they don't know how to handle it and react with hostility.