1. Introduction, 2018
To Kill a Mockingbird

2. Type of Literature Southern Gothic Began in the 1700-1800’s
Includes supernatural/unusual phenomena, horror and romance, strong art/architectural references, and strong emotions
Edgar Allan Poe is considered one of the first American Southern Gothic writers

3. Gothic Elements--TKAM
Meaning/Implication
Element
Destruction
Innocence and purity
Suspense/supernatural undertones
Fire
Snow
Supernatural things:
The Radley house
Items in the tree
“mad”dog

4. Characters
Atticus Finch: widow, attorney, “lives life as a lesson to his children”
Scout: Jean Louise, narrator, many believe she represents author as a young girl
Jem: Scout’s older brother
Calpurnia: mother figure for Jem and Scout
Boo Radley: Finch neighbor, rumored to be crazy

5. Setting Deep South—Maycomb, Alabama
During the Depression when people didn’t have a lot of anything

6. Facts About the Novel Flashback Point of View: first person—Scout
The other points of view are found through dialogue
Considered “Bildungsroman”
a coming of age story
Reader views the psychological and moral growth of the main character throughout the story

7. Social Issues Jim Crow Laws Scottsboro Trial The Great Depression
Racial Injustice
Women/Gender Bias
“Fair Trial”

8. Reading Schedule 4/23: Chapters 1-7 5/1: Chapters 8-11

9. Author Background

10. Harper Lee Harper Lee Biography
After watching the video clip, read and annotate the handout. Then, on the back page of your packet, write down three general statements that sum up what you learned about Harper Lee. Explain why you believe they are a big deal.