Answers.
What are the themes through the novel?
The Coexistence of Good and Evil
The Importance of Moral Education
The Existence of Social Inequality
The Need for Compassion
The Value of Integrity
What are the symbols through the novel?
The Mockingbird
Tim Johnson
Miss Maudie's fire
Watch, chain, knife
Boo Radley
The mad dog
What are the motifs throughout the novel?
1. Gothic details in literature, refers to a style of writing that features supernatural occurrences,
gloomy and haunted settings, full moons, and so on.
2. Small-town life and old-fashioned, small-town values such as a slow-paced, a good-natured feel,
neighbors helping neighbors, etc.
What is the function of relating the Finch family history at the onset of the novel? (What does the
Finch history have to with the setting? Why is it important?)
Proud of roots/ancestry and establishing family in the midst of the novel.
What techniques are used to establish a feeling of mystery in the first chapter? (How did the author
create mystery?)
"It all began." Also when they were describing the Radley house.
Explain the manner of the narration. (What type of narration is it? What does this do for readers?
Mostly reminiscing, looking back on her life.
Cite details in which establish the setting of the novel. PAGE 6
In Alabama, describing the season.
What attitudes seem prevalent as a result of elements of setting?
Rasism, fear.
Contrast Dill's family situation with the Finches'.
Not good parents, father is missing.
What satirical points are being made about education through Scout's experiences in school?
It's boring and juvenile.
, Why does Scout explain Walter Cunningham's situation to Miss Caroline?
So she understands his situation and why he can't take money, and Scout is a leader to his class.
Cite examples of contrast in Jem and Scout.
Jem is lazy while Scout is active. Em is more mature, logical, and polite. Scout is immature and treats
people badly, but he is learning. Scout is firey, selfish, and more active.
Contrast Burris Ewell with the other children. What is the reason for the description?
Burris is unlike other children, he is lazy and doesn't go to school.
What is the thematic significance of the advice Atticus gives Scout?
Other people have their own ways of living, and their own point of views. Also it foreshadows judging
of others in the novel.
What is learned about Jem and Scout from their diverse reaction to the pennies in the knot-hole?
Jem is more wise then Scout.
What characteristics of the children in general are revealed through Boo Radley game? Why doesn't
Scout enjoy the games as much as the boys do?
Because Scout thinks Boo Radley may be nice.
What functions does Miss Maudie Atkinson serve in the novel?
She is Scouts friend since the boys are excluding her. She is a positive female role model.
What is the significant about Jem's decision to make a lone, nocturnal return to the Radley Place?
Courage and bravery.
What is the significant about the town's conclusion regarding the disturbance at the Radley Place?
That the town has a misinterpreted view of the Radley place.
What bewildering incidents occur to Jem and Scout?
There were items found in the tree.
Why is it significant that Jem had been crying?
It showed he had weakness.
How do people react to the fire at Miss Maudie's house?
They ran and panicked.
What characteristics does Miss Maudie show following the fire?
Courage and weakness.
What can we learn about Atticus' character from his defense of Tom Robinson? Why does he lead his
children to believe that he volunteered to do so?