Question

Explain the concept of a “mockingbird” provided by Atticus in Chapter 10. How could this be a symbol? Who could be considered a mockingbird in this novel? Why?

Answer 1

The concept of the mockingbird in TKAM by Atticus in Chapter 10 is basically how an innocent person who is only trying to help shouldn't be "killed" or charged for his actions. This could be a symbol because it represents certain characters in the novel who are only trying to help. Two people who can be significantly thought of as mockingbirds are Tom Robinson and Boo Radley. This is because Tom Robinson is only trying to help Mayella Ewell with her chores but ends up getting killed after being sent to prison because he "tempted" a white women even though he did nothing wrong. Boo Radley is also a mockingbird when he kills Bob Ewell in order to save Scout and Jem from getting killed.

Answer 2

Boo Radley could be a mockingbird because the mockingbird represents innocence. Boo Radley is a mocking bird is innocent despite of his negative reputation. This is shown through the times when he helps Scout and Jem.