TKAM Chapter Notes to kill a mockingbird by harper lee
CHAPTER 1 Significance of Point of View / Narrator Hindsight Function of extended paragraphs on family history Shows family values/morals, and social status Family has two levels – traditional vs. nontraditional Atticus and Jack left the family land for law and medicine (they are progressive thinkers…this will cause conflicts later in the novel considering that it takes place in 1930s South…) Alexandra stayed on the land as a traditional Finch
CHAPTER 1 FORESHADOWING – FUNCTION SO EARLY IN THE NOVEL? First page incorporates first mention of characters – Dill, Ewells, Boo Radley All are important to future conflicts Haverford incident – notes that when family names are mentioned, a very specific image arises Family history brings about preconceived notions and prejudice!
CHAPTER 1 Characterization of Maycomb as a small town Indicative of depression-era life “Vaguely optimistic” about FDR’s proclamation that “there’s nothing to fear but fear itself.” Calpurnia (African-American maid) as a mother figure Shows the tolerance and open-mindedness of the Finch family
CHAPTER 1 Harper Lee’s narration is rushed and shallow in places – why? As the novel wears on, she demonstrates the rapidity of childhood…how quickly it moves and vanishes Dill as a new character Insecure in speaking about his father Scout fails to demonstrate maturity in this instance Whereas before she showed mature restraint in leaving Jem alone when he was depressed about his mother, she presses the issue about Dill’s absent father
CHAPTER 1 – WHO IS “BOO?” Motif: outsider creating conflict Boo Radley in resigned to living life inside of his house As part of the Radley clan, the idea of prejudices/reputations related to families is relevant!