How does Harper Lee use symbolism to convey
themes and ideas in To Kill a Mockingbird?
Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel filled with symbolism that
effectively conveys the themes and ideas presented throughout the story. Lee
utilizes various symbols, such as mockingbirds, to represent specific concepts
and ideologies.
One of the most prominent symbols in the novel is the mockingbird. Atticus
Finch tells his children that "it's a sin to kill a mockingbird" because "they don't
do one thing but sing their hearts out for us." This phrase serves as a
metaphor for the innocence and goodness of certain characters in the novel
who are attacked or exploited. This notion can be applied to Tom Robinson, a
black man who is unfairly accused of raping a white woman, and Boo Radley,
a recluse who is victimized by the gossip and rumors spread by the
townspeople.
Furthermore, the symbolism of the mockingbird extends to other characters as
well. Scout learns to empathize with people who are different from her,
recognizing that they too are innocent and deserving of respect. This
realization is symbolized in the image of a mockingbird, which serves as a
reminder that everyone should be treated with compassion and that
judgments based on prejudice and stereotypes are destructive.
Another important symbol in the novel is the oak tree outside the Radley's
house. The oak tree can be seen as a symbol of stability, strength, and
endurance. It is also significant because it represents the relationship between
Boo Radley and the Finch children. Boo leaves gifts for the children in the
hollow of the tree, indicating that he cares for them and is watching over them.
This symbol helps to convey the idea that people should not be judged based
on their appearance or reputation.
Finally, the symbolism of the snowman serves as a metaphor for the way that
people can be manipulated by prejudice and stereotypes. Jem and Scout build
a snowman that they intend to resemble Mr. Avery, a neighbor with strong
racist tendencies. The snowman, like Avery, is characterized by its ugliness
and prejudice. The snowman is eventually destroyed by Atticus, symbolizing
the power of morality and reason to challenge irrational beliefs and hatred.
In conclusion, Harper Lee expertly uses symbolism to convey the themes and
ideas of To Kill a Mockingbird. The mockingbird represents innocence and
goodness, the oak tree symbolizes stability and endurance, and the snowman
represents the destructive nature of prejudice and stereotypes. By effectively
utilizing these symbols, Lee is able to convey complex ideas and themes in an
accessible and meaningful way.
References:
Lee, H. (1960). To Kill a Mockingbird. HarperCollins Publishers.