To Kill A Mockingbird: Study Guide
Chapter 1
See “Companion to Reading”
Chapter 2
1. How is Scout’s school satirized? Answers may vary.
2. Why does Scout explain Walter Cunningham’s situation to Miss Caroline? While Scout thinks
she is enlightening Ms. Caroline with understanding she is expressing a superficial idea and passing
judgment on Walter based on Maycomb’s social structure.
Chapter 3
3. Contrast Jem and Scout. The major difference is in their treatment of Walter Cunningham.
Scout takes revenge on Walter for the trouble his family’s reputation caused her; however, Jem
treats Walter with respect grown out of actual experience of the Cunningham family attributes.
This is further seen in Scout openly criticizing Walter’s eating habits which are, to her, odd.
4. Contrast Burris Ewell with the other students. Burris is contrasted by both physical descriptions
and his family’s background. Scout remarks he is the dirtiest person she has ever seen, and Ms.
Caroline’s desire to protect the other kids implies they are clean.
5. What is the important thematic connection in the advice Atticus gives Scout?
Atticus implores her to consider things from other people’s point of view, showing compassion and
empathy.
Chapter 4
6. How do Jem and Scout’s reactions to the pennies help characterize them? While both are
curious, both are immature… in different ways. Jem’s immaturity is seen as he “deeply thinks”
about the situation, though thinking in terms of superstitions.
7. What characteristics of children are revealed through the Boo Radley game?
Kids are curious, imaginative, insensitive (unintentionally cruel), and often fearful of adult
authority
Chapter 5
8. What function does Miss Maudie Atkinson symbolize in the novel?
Maudie serves as exposure to “ladylike” behaviors and thoughts, seen in Scout’s comments about
her character, especially as Jem and Dill exclude her from their play. She also juxtaposes Stephanie
Crawford, the neighborhood gossip.
Chapter 6
9. What is significant about Jem’s nocturnal return to the Radleys’? It creates a high point of
interest/suspense due to the threat of a prowler and the mysteriousness of his pants being mended
and folded. It also demonstrates his respect for Atticus, though it might come across as fearful.
10. What does the town decide about the disturbance at the Radleys’? It must have been a Negro.
Chapter 7
11. What bewildering incidents occur to Jem and Scout? The kids find more trinket is the knothole, until it is cemented by Nathan Radley because it’s dying.
12. Why is it significant that Jem has been crying? Jem’s tears reveal that, unlike Scout, he
assumes it was the kindness of Boo and he may have been reaching out due to loneliness, but that is
no longer available.
Chapter 8
13. How do people react to Miss Maudie’s fire? Atticus is a calm spectator, which Jem tries to
emulate. Other attempt to be helpful, as fire trucks come from up to 60 miles away.
14. How does Miss Maudie react? Maudie is brave and optimistic.
Chapter 9
15. What do we know about Atticus from his defense of Tom Robinson? He suggests every lawyer
has one such case in a lifetime… this is his. He must defend Tom to remain true to his convictions.
16. Contrast Aunt Alexandra and Atticus and Jack. This chapter describes their differences in
parenting (as seen in the children the raise), race (as in the Robinson case), and appearance versus
character.
17. How does Atticus try to prevent his kids from catching Maycomb’s “disease.” By his own
example… his tolerance, his calm thinking, and mostly his defense of Tom.
Chapter 10
18. What does the mockingbird symbolize? Atticus explains, which is then furthered by Maudie, is
that mockingbirds cause no harm… so it is a sin to destroy a gentle person.
19. What effects do the Finches experience from the chapter’s main events? The main effect of the
chapter is the change of the light in which Jem and Scout see their father. When the chapter opens,
the kids see their father as feeble and no fun. By chapter’s end, they feel differently. However,
Scout’s admiration is based on the “cool” thought her dad is a good shot and Jem’s is based on his
admiration for Atticus’s humility/modesty.
Chapter 11
20. What causes Jem to strike out against Mrs. Dubose? While the kids have been taunted about
their poor behaviors, Atticus’ lack of parenting, their deceased mother, etc. Jem strikes out when
the comments are directed towards Atticus’s defense of Tom Robinson.
21. What is Mrs. Dubose’s problem? What does this say about her character? As a morphine user,
she must be in great pain of some sort. However, it’s lead to addiction. And while she might need
the pain killer, she reveals her strength in breaking the addiction.
22. What does Jem gain from his experience with Mrs. Dubose? As Atticus suggests, she is an
example of what true courage is (as opposed to a man with a gun, as in the previous chapter). He
also learns tolerance of others, as well as the motif of walking in another’s shoes.
Chapter 12
23. What accounts for the changed relationship between Jem and Scout? Jem becomes 12, and with
that change inconsistent behaviors and moodiness, as noted by Scout. He chooses to spend more
time by himself, which pushes Scout more toward the company of women.
24. What insights do Jem and Scout gain from attending church with Calpurnia? Jem and Scout
notice generous unity amongst members (excluding Lula. There is also a recognition of the
disparity between Cal’s church and theirs (hymnals, benches, condition of the materials/building).
Scout also makes note of Cal’s “double life” based on her command of two languages.
Chapter 13
25. What elements heighten the contrast between Atticus and Aunt Alexandra?
Alexandra’s stay with the Finches heightens when she asks him to speak to the children about their
awareness of the family name and heredity. Because he often feels like a failure as parent, he goes
along with it, as award as it is.
Chapter 14
26. Cite examples of prejudice and lack of human understanding. Answers may include any
number of derogatory remarks directed at the children, much like Francis did at Christmas. This is
further compounded when Alexandra urges Atticus to release Cal from the service, though he
refuse to do so.
27. In what way does Jem break the one remaining code of childhood? He becomes a “tattletale”
by revealing Dill’s presence.
28. Further contrast Dill’s home life with Scout’s. When Dill explains his new family situation,
Scout realizes that while she feels needed and valued, Dill does not.
Chapter 15
29. Contrast the two groups of men Atticus faces. While Jem worries the first group of men may be
the KKK, Atticus insists they are friends. And while the group led by Heck Tate does not come
inside, they are there to deliver a warning of trouble brewing among the Old Sarum bunch. There is
a fear of lynching and what could possible happen to Atticus. The second group of men is the Old
Sarum bunch, arriving at the jail just as Heck warned. The mob smells of pigpens and whiskey, in
their sullen and “shinnied up” intent to do harm to Tom.
30. Explain Jem’s reason for following Atticus to town. Jem is concerned for Atticus’s safety after
eavesdropping on the first group’s warning. That is furthered when Atticus takes the car, which is a
rare occurrence, peaking Jem’s curiosity and concern.
31. Why does the group at the jail disperse after Scout’s talk? The tension is released when Scout
innocently asks Mr. Cunningham about his entailment and his son. One could argue it is parental
protectiveness and empathy or recognition of guilt confronting Atticus that disperses the mob.
Chapter 16
32. Why does Scout cry after returning home? How does Jem show maturity? Scout’s tears
demonstrates her recognition of the severity and imminent danger Atticus just faced. Jem’s
treatment of her, as he comforts her, displays his caring nature. By allowing her to sleep in the bed
with him and cry because she needs to, he acts paternally, as Atticus is too drained to do so.
33. What does Maycomb’s turnout for the trial imply about human nature? Humans have a morbid
curiosity, as Maudie refers to it as a Roman carnival. For most it is a gala occasion, calling for fine
clothes and picnic lunches. Among the negroes, the mood is far more concerning, as the nature of
the trial is dark and sad.
34. Why is Scout confused about remarks about Atticus’s defense of Tom? Here, Scout learns
Atticus was appointed, not just chose to defend Tom. She is confused as to why Atticus would not
reveal his appointment to her or Jem. She is further confused about why the town is upset that
Atticus has chosen to do what she sees as natural, to do the best job he can.
Chapter 17
35. What does Atticus attempt to establish through Heck Tate’s testimony? The lack of medical
examination; he further attempts to explain she was beaten by a left-handed assailant, being very
emphatic about that point.
36. What devices does the author use in chapter 17 to characterize the Ewells? Characterization:
(physical description, surrounding descriptions, says, does, reaction to and of others, narration) the
Ewells have long been in impoverished, as established through their homestead behind the twon
dump. There is also certainty of Bob’s unfounded arrogance and lack of education, as well as his
crude delivery.
37. What does Atticus attempt to establish through Bob Ewell’s testimony? Atticus attempts to
reaffirm Mayella’s injuries and then establish Bob is left handed, implying he could have been the
person who beat his daughter.
Chapter 18
38. What does Mayella’s testimony add to the case? Mayella’s testimony helps paint a picture of
the sad existence and life she lives, almost animalistic. This is further explored by establishing her
loneliness which motivated her to reach out for some human contact. During the question and
answer, her hesitation seems to indicate an attempt to keep her story straight, implying the entire
story is fabricated.
39. What startling revelation is made about Tom? As Tom rises to be identified by Mayella, it’s
apparent his arm is deformed… so he couldn’t have beaten her the way in which it’s been
described.
Chapter 19
40. What important realization does Scout come to during Tom’s testimony? Evaluating Tom’s
testimony becomes an exercise in empathy as Scout increases her understanding of others. She
notes Tom’s kindness was unrecognized and receives only hostility in return.
41. What tragic racial situation is illustrated in this chapter? The definition of roles and rules for
blacks is clear, and segregation impacts Tom’s resistance to Mayella’s advances and his decision to
run. This is further when Tom is cross examined and receives condescending treatment from Mr.
Gilmer.
42. Why is it important that Dill is the character that gets sick in the courtroom?
Dill is an
outsider and a child, so the degradation may be the first time he’s experienced it (as opposed to
Scout and Jem). He insists it just ain’t right.
Chapter 20
43. What thematically related insights do Scout and Dill receive outside the
courtroom? After admitting his secret, it reinforces the idea that people are not always who
they may appear to be. ,
44. In reference to Dill, what pessimistic note does Dolphus Raymond cast? As they talk about the
trial, Dolphus’s words serve as sad reminder of the hell people give one another and that is the way
it is… so when Dill gets older he will not react as emotionally as he is now.
45. What/who is Atticus actually condemning in his closing remarks to the jury?
What is the target of his final plea? Atticus attacks the social climate of Maycomb on three
fronts: 1. He condemns the social code which is so strict and time-honored that the breaking of it
creates a haunting guilt, a guilt so strong that it places another’s life at stake. 2. He attacks the false
stereotype that all blacks lie, are immoral, and are not to be trusted around white women. 3. He
then insists that the jury see Tom as an individual, and as their equal at least in the eyes of the law,
where it is no ideal but a reality.
Chapter 21
46. How does Scout know the verdict before it is read? What is the broader
meaning of the jury’s behavior? She notes the mood of that overwhelms the courtroom. She
notes that a jury does not look at a defendant it has convicted, which Tom’s jury does not. That can
be for guilt in finding him guilty despite knowledge of his innocence.
Chapter 22
47. What finally forces Jem over the threshold into adulthood? What
symbolic incident occurs that testifies to Jem’s move toward adulthood? The jury’s conviction
of Tom forces Jem to abandon his idealistic belief in justice, rationality, and individual integrity.
This connects back to the kids’ conversation with Dolphus. The symbolic incident is in Maudie’s
baking of the two smaller cakes for the Dill and Scout, while Jem serves him from the big cake, a
gesture indicating she is aware he has come of age.
48. What hope and what fear are expressed at the end of the chapter? Hope- The idea that since the
jury took so long in deliberation is a hope that society has made some progress in eradicating
prejudice. Fear –Bob’s threat to Atticus.
Chapter 23
49. Give Atticus’s interpretation of recent events. Atticus sees Bob’s threat as anger toward
eliminating whatever credibility he may have had in the community. Atticus tries to see it from
Bob’s point of view, but sees accepting the insults and spit as a better option over another beating
for Mayella. He also anticipated the guilty verdict, considering the section of the world in which he
lives, but notes the jury’s lengthy deliberation as a sign of progress.
50. Cite more examples of Jem’s continuing maturity. Jem continues to show maturity through his
conversations about the case with Atticus, no longer just accepting things but rather questioning
them. He even tries to comfort Scout when she is irritated by Aunty. He also further speculates on
Boo Radley, trying to show tolerance and gentility.
Chapter 24
51. What is ironic about the missionary circle’s conversation? These women share their caring and
compassion for the problems of the African tribe, as long as it comes from a distance and does not
require the soiling of their white hands and communities. These hypocrites still see themselves as
“good Christians”.
52. Why did Tom try to escape? Faced with the choice of appealing the trial and risking his life, he
loses his sense of self and self-worth and does not believe he will ever get a fair trial in a white
man’s court/world.
53. What insight is gained into Aunt Alexandra’s character? She shows concern over Atticus’s
well-being, saying the town has used him up, but that she will stand beside him.
Chapter 25
54. How is Tom symbolized through the mockingbird? While most of Maycomb, his death is
typical and not of note beyond the two days. However, Mr. Underwood’s editorial suggests that
Tom was as harmless as a mockingbird and senselessly slaughtered.
55. How is the mood of apprehension conveyed at the end of the chapter? Bob’s comment of one
down two to go implies another death is imminent.
Chapter 26
56. What satirical points are AGAIN made on the subject of education? Ms. Gates’ requires her
students to parrot responses of what democracy is, despite seeing the injustice in Maycomb without
thought. This is furthered when she condemns Hitler’s persecution of the Jews in Nazi Germany
while ignoring the persecution in front of her. This confuses Scout and connects back to the
missionary circle.
57. Why is Jem unable to speak about the trial? Due to the intensity and their nearness in time,
Atticus insists Jem set it aside ling enough to place the events in proper perspective.
Chapter 27
58. What three incidents concerning the Ewells occur? What does this tell us about Bob Ewell?
Bob has been fired from the WPA for laziness, though he places the blame elsewhere. He also
burglarizes the home of Judege Taylor, and then he harasses Helen Robinson. These incidents
demonstrate his growing aggressive behavior and pursuit of revenge on everyone associated with
the trial, though Atticus seems to dismiss any personal danger.
59. What comic incident is related in this chapter, and what function does it serve? The hidden
furniture of Misses Tutti and Frutti establishes a whereabouts for where Scout and Jem will be on
Halloween. It also lightens the mood before the tension built in upcoming chapters.
Chapter 28
60. What details in this chapter, and the last, add to the mounting tension prior to the attack? The
simple timing of the kids’ walk, as all elements of setting and minor plot events contribute to the
tension. Strange shadows, Scout’s immobility in her ham, darkness, the eerie talk of ‘haints by
Jem, Cecil’s attempt to frighten the kids, and Alexandra’s acknowledgement that the kids will be
unescorted all create a mood that sets up the attack.
Chapter 29
61. Discuss the credibility of Boo’s defense of Jem and Scout? Their defense has been
foreshadowed by his many affectionate and protective overtures (think gum, blanket, pants) toward
them.
Chapter 30
62. What insight is gained into Heck Tate’s character? Heck shows himself to be stubborn when
discussing the attack with Atticus. He argues in a blunt, simplistic manner. And suggests that he is
not lying to protect Jem, as Atticus believes. One can also see this as understanding and
sympathetic towards Boo’s situation.
63. What situation do both Atticus and Scout recognize? Upon Heck’s insistence, both Atticus and
Scout see the necessity of protecting Arthur. And despite the poetic justice of Bob’s death,
dragging Boo into a prolonged nightmare may not only damage him but provide Maycomb with
even more fodder and gossip.
64. Discuss Scout’s comment about the mockingbird theme in relation to Boo. Scout’s reassuring
comment to her father shows the level of compassion she has achieved, internalizing and applying
prior advice to the new situation, making a moral decision to protect the harmless.
Chapter 31
65. In what way does Scout demonstrate compassion in chapter 30 and 31?
Scout demonstrates her compassion and sensitivity when she courteously talks to Arthur and guides
him about the house to the porch. This is furthered when she allows him the role of gentleman as
she take his arm for a stroll back to his home. This in contrast to leading him and allowing for
another humiliating and embarrassing situation for him. Once inside his house, she turns to see the
neighborhood as he saw it. She slips into his shoes, as Atticus has urged her to do. It is then she
feels sorrow for how she has not given commensurately to Boo for all he has given her, including
her life.