Study Questions – To Kill a Mockingbird
Chapters 1-3
Identify with as much detail as you can:
Setting: Maycomb, Alabama – small farming community in the 1930s
Narrator: Scout (Jean Louise Finch) – she is telling the story as an adult reflecting back on her childhood, she’s
6 when the events of the novel begin
Jeremy Atticus Finch (Jem) - Scout’s brother, 10 at the beginning of the novel
Calpurnia – lives with the Finches, African-American, takes care of Scout and Jem, authoritative
Miss Rachel Haverford – Dill’s aunt, lives next door to the Finches
Mr. and Mrs. Radley – Boo’s parents, keep to themselves, he walks to and from town and doesn’t speak, she
sometimes visited neighbors and watered flowers
Arthur Radley (Boo) – we are told that he got into trouble as a teen and has been held captive in his house since
then
Mr. Nathan Radley – Boo’s brother
Miss Stephanie Crawford – town gossip, she is who Jem gets all of his information about the Radleys from
Answer study questions with as much specific detail as you can, using page references where possible.
Ch. 1
Begins with a “hook” – how Jem broke his arm; Scout says the Ewells started it, and Jem says it started with Dill
coming to Maycomb
The kids’ boundaries are from the Radleys to Mrs. Dubose; as they grow, these boundaries will expand, both
physically and emotionally
A major theme is courage; in Part 1 it is exemplified in the kids’ attempts to get Boo Radley to come out; later on
there will be examples of moral courage
Motif – a recurring idea/thought that acts as a unifying device and develops a commentary on characterization or
ides in the novel
1. What does the Radley house represent to the children? – mystery, intrigue, they think it’s haunted, superstition
surrounds it
2. What was the first “dare” made concerning the house? (13) that Jem wouldn’t get past the Radley front gate
3. Who made the first dare and who carried it out? (13) Dill made it and Jem did it
4. How does Harper Lee make the house and the Radley’s seem so mysterious? (8-13) description of the house,
almost everything she says about them is hearsay/gossip – is it really true?? (this information comes from Miss
Stephanie)
5. Briefly describe the Finch family background. What was the “disturbance between the North and the South”?
(3-5) the Civil War; Finch family has deep Southern roots, but Atticus and Jack have broken with tradition by
leaving Finch’s Landing; Alexandra stays behind – she is the spokesperson for tradition in the novel
6. Explain the differences between Dill’s family situation and the Finch family. Dill is passed from family
member to family member; the Finches are very close-knit
7. Who is Jean Louise? Scout, narrator, tomboy, Jem’s little sister
8. What is the difference between Jen and Scout’s reaction to school? (18)Scout hates it, Jem loves it, he tells her
it will get better – Jem is more accepting of school
9. What does Scout tell Miss Caroline about Walter Cunningham? Why does she tell her? (20) that the
Cunninghams never take anything they can’t pay back; Scout respects people for their integrity
Miss Caroline represents progressive classroom education
One of the major themes in the novel is classroom education vs. real world education – Lee thinks real
world education is more effective
Miss Caroline also has a “blind spot” – this is a major motif in the novel
Lee will constantly mention the Radley house to keep it in the reader’s mind (23)
10. How does Atticus explain the Ewell family? (30-31) he talks about compromise, he says they are members of
an “exclusive society” that don’t have to obey the law
Burris Ewell incident represents another Miss Caroline blind spot (27)
11. According to Atticus, why must Scout attend school? (30) she’s a member of the common folk and they must
obey the law
Point of view theme – Scout will turn to this advice many times throughout the novel – this is the real source of her
education (30)
12. Describe what you know so far about Atticus’ personality. (5) lawyer, very tan, logical, tries to put himself in
other people’s shoes to understand their problems, patient, gentle, listens when kids talk, tolerant of other
people
Last line of Ch. 3 is a power line – a stylistic device used by the author to add emphasis to the line
Briefly summarize Chapters 1-3
 Class distinction among whites evidenced by Cunninghams and Ewells
 Scout’s formal education begins and so does her education in life with Atticus’ advice about considering
other viewpoints
 Ch. 1-2 mysteries: Jem’s broken arm and Boo Radley – these will be solved by the end of the novel
 Pay attention to the last lines of each chapter – power lines!!!
Chapters 4-8
Ch. 4
13. What ‘treasures’ do Scout and Jem find in the Radley’s oak tree? How do these finds heighten the mystery of
the Radley house? (33) 2 pieces of chewing gum, small box with 2 Indian head pennies – someone is using
the Radley tree as a hiding place
Radley knothole is part of the secrets motif
Jem – “Hush a minute, I’m thinking” – Jem is struggling with problems while Scout isn’t – he is starting to
grow up (34)
“Grown folks don’t have hidin’ places” – when and how adults hide things is a key theme in the novel (35)
14. What is one of the stories the children tell about Boo? he dies years ago and they stuffed him in the
chimney (43); he bit off Mrs. Radley’s finger (39)
Power line – “Jem was a born hero” – foreshadowing (39)
15. How does Atticus react to the children’s dramatizations about the Radley family? He stays calm and tells
them their game better not be about the Radleys (40-41)
Jem tells Scout to stop acting like a girl – gender prejudice is a theme (41)
Ch. 5
16. Who is Miss Maudie Atkinson? Describe the children’s relationship with her. Lives across from the
Finches, reasonable, children like her – especially Scout (she grows closer to her when Jem and Dill become
close) (44)
“reasonable characters” – Miss Maudie and Atticus; look for more as we read (45)
17. Describe Jem’s attempt to deliver a note to Boo. What does Atticus do when he discovers what Jem, Dill
and Scout are attempting? They use a fishing pole , attach a note to the end of it, try to stick it through a shutter;
Atticus simply tells the kids that he hopes they will stop tormenting Boo – it’s none of their business (46, 49)
Atticus gives the kids a lot of latitude before he approaches them about the Boo Radley problem – he doesn’t try
to overpower his kids, he wants them to figure it out (49)
Ch. 6
18. Why do Jem, Dill, and Scout wait until the last night of summer to try to peek into the Radley’s back
window? Because if Boo kills them they will miss school instead of summer vacation (51)
“Angel May” – gender prejudice
19. Describe in detail what happens when the children are caught in their prank. They lie to the adults about
playing strip poker by the fishpool, Jem says Dill won his pants (54-55)
20. What is significant about the neighbors’ conclusion as to whom they think was in the Radley’s yard.
They think it was a “Negro” – shows the prejudice and racism in the town
Lee’s narrative technique – te reader stays home with Scout while Jem gets his pants – so she can create
suspense (in the next chapter, something about Jem’s pants is revealed)
Motif – “it’s not time to worry yet”
 This line is repeated throughout the novel
 Scout uses it as comfort
Theme – courage: Jem confronts a lot things in this chapter




The Radley house
Adults
Nathan Radley’s shotgun
The fact that he did something wrong
Ch. 7
21. How does Scout feel about second grade?
Doesn’t like it – worse than first grade; she does like that she gets to go home with Jem (57-58)
22. What does Jem reveal to Scout about his pants and who does he think is responsible? They were poorly sewn
up – thinks the Radleys did it (58)
23. What five additional treasures do Jem and Scout find in the Radley oak? Why do they think the treasures
are for them? 2 dolls carved out of soap, pack of gum, medal, pocket watch with aluminum knife (60)
Symbol – watches
 Atticus and someone else have given Jem a watch…try to figure out what this means
24. The children suspect various characters as having left the treasures. Cite each “suspicious” character and
the reason why Jem and Scout eliminate each possibility.
 Mr. Avery – he carves
 Miss Stephanie’s sweetheart – he lives in the country
 Miss Maudie – can’t chew gum and she probably wouldn’t have a watch and chain (60-61)
25. What doe Mr. Nathan Radley do to the oak tree and how do Jem and Scout react?
He fills it with cement, the kids get very upset and Jem cries (62-63)
26. Why does Scout react to the snow by yelling “The world’s endin’, Atticus…!”
She’s never seen it before and doesn’t know what it is (64)
27. What is the significance of the reference point of Appomattox in Mr. Avery’s remark, “It hasn’t snowed in
Maycomb since Appomattox.”?
Uses it to comment on how long it’s been since it snowed in Maycomb – reference to Civil War (65)
28. Why do you think Boo Radley covered Scout as she watched the fire? How did she react when she learned
the identity of her benefactor? Because he’s nice – she slmost throws up when she finds out it’s him (72)
The children are threatened by snow (something that is just unfamiliar and can’t hurt them) and a fire
(something that can actually harm them). This will parallel to the Boo Radley plot; Boo is someone who is
unfamiliar to the children, but he doesn’t seem to want to harm them. In Part 2, we will meet someone who is
like the fire; someone who wants to harm them.
29. What character traits does Miss Maudie show when she reacts to the burning of her house?
She’s optimistic – she hated her house and thought of burning it herself (73)
Ch. 8 is a transition from a childish fear of Boo to a justified fear of the fire.
Motif – “it’s not time to worry yet” (69) Jem says this to Scout
Briefly summarize Chapters 4-8
Chapters 9-11
Ch. 9
Introduces the 2nd major plot strand in the novel – the Tom Robinson trial
We move from childhood terrors (Boo) to adult terrors (racial prejudice, etc.)
30. What is Maycomb’s “usual disease”? Who coined this phrase?
The tendency of people in the community to just follow what everyone else does – not to think for themselves;
coined by Atticus (88)
31. What does Cecil Jacobs announce at school about Atticus, and what does Scout do about it?
He said that Atticus defends “niggers”; she prepares to fight him (74)
The Cecil Jacobs incident introduces the motif of losing battles. Scout will come to understand that losing is not
the point. (74)
32. Who is Tom Robinson? Why is Atticus defending him? Why does Judge Taylor
appoint Atticus?
Black man that Atticus is defending; says if he didn’t defend him he couldn’t hold his head up in town; Judge
Taylor appoints him because he thinks he’s the only one who can handle it (75)
Atticus and Maudie deliver lines that shape the children’s ideas about race. They both insist on calling people
by a single name. Atticus says, “I’m simply defending a Negro – his name is Tom Robinson.” Maudies says,
“His name is Arthur and he’s alive.” (75)
Theme – courage: Atticus says, “Simply because we were licked…” (76). Scout will learn to fight in the face of
assured loss. This also ties in with the losing battles motif.
33. For what does Scout receive a spanking from Uncle John? Why does Atticus believe she deserved it?
For fighting with her cousin Franics; she deserves it because Atticus had already warned her about fighting (83,
87)
Losing battles motif - Scout loses the battle with Francis
Theme – courage: Atticus asks Scout not to let words/names bother her (87)
34. What comparison does Scout use to describe her relationship with Aunt Alexandra and what does this
reveal about her character? compares her aunt to Mt. Everest – “she was cold and there”; shows that Alexandra
is stuck in her ways (77)
Religious allusion – “Let this cup pass from you, eh?”
This compares Atticus to Jesus. He will sacrifice himself for the sin of others. Atticus will fight the racial battle
of the Tom Robinson case for Maycomb’s well-intentioned citizens (78).
35. Explain Scout’s reasoning regarding her “cussing frequently.” She thinks that Atticus will think she learned
it at school and she won’t have to go back (79)
Comment on education – education in school can bring some students down (like if it exposes them to things
like cussing) (78-79)
36. What has Scout learned about injustice from Miss Caroline and the townspeople?
She learns that everyone is going to judge Atticus because he’s defending a black man – they’re prejudice
Ch. 10
This chapter is about the children judging Atticus. In this chapter, his physical courage impresses them.
However, later on his mental/moral courage will impress them.
37. Explain why Scout is upset that Attucs is “so old.”
b/c he wasn’t like the other fathers – she didn’t think anyone admired him (89)
38. Why does Atticus tell the children about mockingbirds? How does Miss Maudie help this explanation?
b/c they were learning how to shoot – Maudie says they only make music for people to enjoy (90)
Introduces the mockingbird motif/symbol – innocent creature that only brings pleasure. The mad dog is a
symbol for other “creatures” who are not innocent.
39. Why does the sheriff ask Atticus to shoot Tom Johnson?
b/c Atticus is the best shot in Maycomb County (96)
Blindness/blind spot motif – Atticus doesn’t have good vision and he has to take off his glasses to shoot the
dog. He sees clearly when he has to.
40. What explanation does Miss Maudie give for Atticus putting his gun down 30 years ago?
Atticus realized that God gave him an unfair advantage over most living things, so he wouldn’t shoot unless he
had to (98)
41. What does Jem tell Scout to do about their father’s shooting of the dog?
Don’t say anything about it (98)
Shows that Jem is maturing
Ch. 11
Boundary motif
 1st paragraph introduces it
 By the end of the chapter, the children have pretty much mastered the physical boundaries of their
neighborhood.
 Part 2 introduces that moral, social, emotional, and political boundaries (99)
Notice the description of Mrs. Dubose (99-100)
Mrs. Dubose is the first adult to insult the kids – their boundaries are expanding (102)
42. What does Atticus do that causes Scout to say he was the “bravest man who ever lived”?
He talks to Mrs. Dubose (100)
43. What does Jem do to Mrs. Dubose’s camellia bushes and why?
Uses Scout’s baton to cut off the tops of all of them b/c she was saying mean things to them about Atticus and
his family (103)
“It’s not time to worry yet” motif (104)
Atticus’ reasoning for taking the Tom Robinson case is to avoid being a hypocrite – he couldn’t live with
himself if he didn’t take it (104-105)
44. What does Mrs. Dubose want from Jem as payment for his crime?
Come to her everyday after school and Saturdays for a month and read to her (105)
Lee’s narrative technique – she mentions the Radley place – it’s her way of keeping it in our minds (105)
45. How does Atticus explain the term “nigger-lover” to Scout?
Says it doesn’t mean anything – ignorant, trashy people use it when they think somebody is favoring Negroes
over and above themselves (108)
46. What change had occurred in Mrs. Dubose by the last week Scout and Jem went to her home?
Instead of the alarm clock sounding to release them, Mrs. Dubose would just say, “that’ll do” and allow them to
leave (109)
Definition of a “lady” – Jem and Atticus have different ideas about what a lady is (112)
47. How does Atticus explain “courage” to Jem?
It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what
(112)
Briefly summarize Chapters 9-11
Chapters 12-15
Ch. 12-14 gather cast for the Tom Robinson trial and extend the kids’ boundaries in terms of social awareness,
moral choice, and personal integrity
Ch. 12
48. List three things that are perplexing Scout at the beginning of the summer.
1. Jem is changing (115)
2. Dill didn’t come (116)
3. Atticus will be gone for 2 weeks (116)
Jem is moving from a selfish/somewhat deceitful child to a near-adult with many of Atticus’ values
Cal begins calling him “Mister Jem” (116)
Gender stereotype – Jem tells Scout she needs to be more of a girl – he’s growing up and looks at girls
differently
49. Describe the differences between Calpurnia’s church and the white people’s church. Why do you think
Harper Lee presents us with this contrast at this point in the novel?
Cal’s church is the only one with a steeped bell (118), they don’t use hymn books (120), Rev. Sykes calls out
individuals (122) – Lee does this because Atticus is about to begin the trial, and she wants to make the
differences clear
Incident with Lula – shows the race relations in Maycomb, it’s necessary for Lee to make this clear so the
reader understands why the Tom Robinson trial goes the way that it does (119)
Rev. Sykes
 Notice how he treats the Finch children – with respect (120)
 He appreciates what Atticus is doing for Tom
Cal is the one to tell the children what Tom is accused of (124)
50. Explain what Scout fids unusual about Calpurnia’s manner of speaking at the Negro church and how
Calpurnina explains this to her.
She talks like her friends and neighbors because she doesn’t want them to think that she thinks she’s better than
them (125) – “it’s not necessary to tell all you know” (126)
This is in line with the secrets motif – hiding one’s best qualities
Adult secrets (like Atticus and Cal’s) can serve good as well as evil ends
51. What do Jem and Scout learn about the injustice of white people during their visit to Calpurnina’s church?
They won’t hire Helen because of the accusations against Tom (123) – they are quick to judge/stereotype (123)
52. Why does the congregation sing the hymns by “lining”?
b/c they can’t read (only 4 can – including Cal and Zeebo) (124)
53. Who is sitting on the Finch’s front porch when they get home?
Aunt Alexandra (126)
Ch. 13
Aunt Alexandra moves in to help the children learn her idea of “who they are,” which is much different from
Atticus’ idea
 Alexandra is concerned with the things ones does because one is a Finch
 Atticus has nurtured a more independent view of their identity
 Both views have positive sides
“The summer’s going to be a hot one” - means more than temperature…racial tensions will run high because of
the trial (128)
54. How does Atticus explain Aunt Alexandra’s arrival? How do the children feel about it?
He says he won’t be able to stay there all day with them (128) – “the summer will be a hot one” – the kids are
not excited
Description of Maycomb and its people so the trial will make sense to us (129-132)
55. What sense of values doe Aunt Alexandra try to impart to the children?
That they are not from “run-of-the-mill” people and they should try to live up to their name (133)
56. Why does Scout cry?
b/c Atticus tells them how Aunt Alexandra wants them to behave – he was very curt and was not himself (134)
worrying motif – refers to Scout’s fear that her family is changing for the worse (134)
Ch. 14
57. How does Atticus respond to Alexandra’s suggestion that they do not need Cal anymore?
He says Cal’s not leaving until she wants to (137)
Jem says, “It’s different with grown folks, we…” – shows he’s maturing (138)
58. What does Scout say she had never heard of or seen before, and how does it make her feel?
Anyone quarrel with Atticus – it makes her uncomfortable (137)
Dill returns – still hurt
 He has a dad, but he doesn’t love Dill (139)
Jem “broke the remaining code of our childhood” – he’s growing up (141)
59. Why did Dill run away from home? What is different between Dill’s relationship with his parents and
Scout and Jem’s relationship with Atticus?
b/c his parents didn’t interact with him – they weren’t interested in him (143) Atticus interacts with Scout and
Jem all of the time (143)
60. What evidence do we have the Jem is starting to grow up and is beginning to identify with the adult world?
Be specific.
Jem told Atticus that Dill ran away (141)
Dill is a mockingbird (143)
 He’s a victim of neglect when he hasn’t done anything wrong
 What is Dill’s purpose in the novel?
Secrets motif (135) – Cal won’t tell Scout what rape is
Scout mentions Boo Radley (144) – author’s technique of keeping him in our thoughts
This chapter represents the growing internal tensions in the Finch family
Ch. 15
2 Mob scenes – both are at night, and in both Atticus is unarmed against a groups of unreasonable citizens
 1st mob – Atticus reminds Jem that they’re still their friends (146)
 2nd mob – they’re truly dangerous
“nightmare” – refers to the Tom Robinson trial (144)
Lynch mobs – Atticus tells the kids to go in the house, like with the fire (145)
61. Why did Heck Tate and the men pay a visit to Atticus? How did Jem and Scout react to this?
To discuss Tom Robinson’s case (145); the kids spy on them and listen to everything – they thought it was a
gang after Atticus (146)
Atticus’ goal in Tom’s trial – to tell the truth even if he’s lost before he begins (146)
Secrets motif – KKK
 Their driving force is anonymity, like all mobs (147)
“Southern womanhood”
 Southern woman = virgin/mother – all men were raised to protect that, so the thought of a black man
raping a white woman was awful (147)
Scout doesn’t want to bother Boo – she’s matured (148)
Description of Maycomb jail (150)
Unlike the group that comes to the house, the mob at the jail is full of strangers (152)
Notice how Jem and Atticus are alike (152)
Walter Cunningham’s dad is part of the mob – allows there to be a “connection” between the Finches and the
“strangers”
Worry motif – Scout mentions it when talking about entailment (154)
62. How did the gang that met Aticus at the jail compare with the first group that came to his home? What
was the result of Scout’s combination of innocence and straightforwardness when she addressed Mr.
Cunningham?
The gang at the jail was unfamiliar to Scout and they were there to mess with Tom Robinson; Scout’s innocence
and straightforwardness resulted in the men not wanting to be violent anymore (157)
63. What had Mr. Underwood done during the conversation at the jail?
He was covering Atticus’ back with his shotgun from the window above the newspaper office (155)
This is the first time we actually meet Tom Robinson (155)
64. What is Dill’s latest plan to get Boo Radley to come out?
To place a trail of lemon drops from the back door to the front yard and Boo would follow them like an ant
(145)
65. How is the author slowly building a web of tension leading up to the trial?
A chain of mysterious events about the trial happens and we don’t know exactly why – this is part of Lee’s
narrative technique
The last line – “massaged Jem’s hair” – Atticus is recognizing that Jem is becoming a man
Briefly summarize Chapters 12-15
Chapters 16-19
Ch. 16
About “us” and “them”
“The full meaning of the night’s events hit me”
 This is the first time Scout has taught herself something (156)
 Notice the parallels between the mad dog and one of the mobs
Braxton Underwood (156)
 Atticus says he “despises Negroes”, yet he protects Atticus and Tom – why?
o Like Atticus, he was standing up for what he believes in – a man’s right to a fair trial
Atticus is changing – Scout notices that Aunt Alexandra irritates him a little (157)
66. How would you characterize the crowd that has come to the trial? Why do you think Harper Lee described
them in such detail?
A very diverse group – she does this to show the different levels of society and how all people were affected by
the trial
67. What kind of a judge was Judge Taylor?
Amiable, white-haired, red face, ran an informal court (his feet were propped up on the stand), learned in the
law, he permitted smoking, but he didn’t indulge himself (165)
68. What subtle change does Scout notice in Atticus?
It came out when he talked to Aunt Alexandra – “a quiet digging in, never outright irritation…faint starchiness
in his voice…” (157)
Atticus says, “Mr. Cunningham…has his blind spots” (157)
 Blindness motif
 Atticus is the only one who is actually blind – everyone else is figuratively blind
69. How does Atticus explain “mobs” to the children?
He says, “Every mob in every little Southern town is always made up of people you know…a gang of wild
animals can be stopped, simply because they’re still human” (157)
 This illustrates the major theme of standing in someone else’s shoes
 “mad dog”/”wild animals” = mob
70. What is Miss Maudie’s reaction to everyone wanting to go to the trial?
She thinks it’s morbid to watch a man on trial for his life – she has no business with it (159)
 This reinforces what a reasonable character she is
There’s a “Roman carnival” atmosphere in the courtroom
 Everyone gathers for the pleasure of watching a man on trial for his life – like gladiators in ancient
Roman times
 It was a “gala occasion” (160)
71. Why does Jem say the “mixed children” are sad?
b/c they don’t belong anywhere (161)
Dolphus Raymond sits with the blacks at the trial (160)
 He has “mixed children”
 Sips “whiskey” in a Coke bottle
Racism – “once you have a drop of Negro blood, that makes you all black” (162)
Blacks give their seats to the children – they appreciate what Atticus is doing for Tom (164)
72. What news does Scout overhear about Atticus defending Tom Robinson? How does she feel about it?
That the court appointed him to defend Tom – she wishes he would’ve told her this because she could’ve used it
to defend herself (163); she was confused that people were mad that he aimed to defend Tom
Difference between the court “appointing” Atticus to defend Tom and Atticus “aims” to defend him
 Atticus wants to do a good job, not just go through the motions
 Why doesn’t Atticus tell the children he was appointed?
73. With whom do the children sit in the courtroom?
Rev. Sykes (164)
74. Why do you think Harper Lee pays meticulous attention to every aspect of the courtroom?
To set the scene for the trial because it’s a central event in the novel
Ch. 17
Presents the “Ewell” version of the crime as the correct version because it is told by the white victim and her
father
 This is the first time we hear about the crime itself – prior to this we had only heard about the town’s
reaction to the crime
Mr. Gilmer – Ewell’s lawyer (166)
Ewell called Heck and Heck found Mayella beat up and lying on the floor – Mayella said Tom beat her up (166)
75. On what single key issue doe Atticus build his case? What kinds of strategies does he used to elicit the
truth? That Bob Ewell and Mayella are lying – he asks a lot of questions to try and confuse them
76. What question does Atticus ask the sheriff three times?
If he called for a doctor to examine Mayella (167)
Mayella’s right eye was black and brusied (168)
Ewells lived as “guests of the county” in prosperity and depression – they were so poor that it didn’t
matter…everyone left them alone (170)
The red geraniums are Mayella’s – this suggests that she’s different from the rest of her family (170)
“we acquired no traumas from watching out father…” – Atticus is the “same in his house as he is in the public
street” (like Miss Maudie said) (171)
77. How does Jem convince Reverend Sykes it is OK for Scout to stay in the courtroom?
He says Scout doesn’t really understand what’s going on and they’re too far away for Atticus to see them (173)
78. What excuse does Mr. Ewell give for not running after Tom Robinson?
That he was too distracted by Mayella to run after him (175)
Ewell doesn’t call a doctor because it would cost $5 – shows how uncaring he is (175)
Ewell agrees with everything Tate says (176)
Ewell can read and write – he’s left handed…why is this important??? Mayella’s right eye is bruised, so a left
handed person would have hit her…it could’ve been her father
Atticus makes it clear that Bob Ewell is a liar, and he shows no sympathy for him
Ch. 18
We meet Mayella, the victim, for the first time
 The description Lee gives of her characterizes her as being above her environment (178-9)
79. Why does Mayella think Atticus is mocking her?
b/c he calls her “Miss” and “ma’am” – she’s probably never been called that before and doesn’t know how to
respond…Mayella is a mockingbird (182)
Atticus builds a picture of the Ewells as “poor white trash”
 This is the lowest level of the social ladder in the South – even blacks looked down on them (182-3)
Mayella: “he does tollable, ‘cept when – “
 Like Scout saying the Atticus is satisfactory in Ch. 1
 Scout has no more idea that her dad is exceptionally fine than Mayella has that her dad is exceptionally
contemptable (183)
Atticus’ glasses slipped – blindness motif – Atticus is the one who can see through the Ewell story (184)
80. Explain why Atticus has Tom Robinson stand up.
So everyone could see that his left arm is 12 inches shorter than his right (186)
Atticus “polished his glasses” – blindness motif (188)
81. Why does Atticus look like “his stomach hurt” when he proves his case against Mayella?
b/c he really feels sorry for her (188)
Atticus begs Mayella to tell the truth before it’s too late (188)
A history of sexual abuse by her father is implied (188)
Ch. 19
This is the first opportunity we have to form an opinion of Tom
Atticus brings out Tom’s criminal past to show that he has nothing to hide (190) – secrets motif
82. Why does Scout pity Mayella even though she was testifying against Tom Robinson?
b/c she thinks she must be the loneliest person in the world – she’s a “mixed Child” (191-192)
Scout progresses from understanding Boo to understanding Mayella – this shows the continuance of Scout’s
education…growing up theme
“what her papa do to her don’t count” – implied sexual abuse in the Ewell family
Point of view motif
 Tom can only ask that the jury look at things from his point of view, but the jury can’t begin to imagine
such a thing (195)
83. Compare Scout and Dill’s reactions to Mr. Gilmer’s prosecution. Why do you think Dill becomes so upset
when Mr. Gilmer cross examines Tom?
Scout thinks he’s just doing his job, but Dill is upset at how he is treating Tom – he thinks no one should be
treated that way, regardless of his skin color (199) Dill is not as thick-skinned as Scout because of his home life
– he’s not as secure about things
“Well, Dill, after all he’s just a Negro” – the prejudice of the community has contributed to Scout’s views (199)
84. Why does Tom say he ran?
b/c he was scared he’s have to face up to what he didn’t do in court (198)
85. What mistake does Tom make when Mr. Gilmer asks him to explain why he helped Mayella?
He says he felt sorry for her (197)
Tom is a mockingbird – he’s unable to give anything but goodness
 His only crime was feeling pity for Mayella and disrupting the social hierarchy (197) – prejudice theme
Briefly summarize Chapters 16-19
Chapters 20-24
Ch. 20
The purpose of Ch. 20
 Structurally – connects Tom to the title of the novel
 Thematically – complete’s the kids’ education by allowing them to access Mr. Raymond’s secrets –
extends their boundaries of understanding beyond the understanding of most adults
 Highlights Jem and Scout at the moment their innocence is shattered
86. Why had Dolphus Raymond made himself into a town outcast? What commentary is he making about the
town and its values?
b/c the town can’t accept the way he wants to live his life, so he gives them a reason to latch onto (he can’t help
his ways b/c he’s drunk all of the time) – he’s saying the town is too stubborn and close-minded to change (200201)
 This ties into the secrets motif
 Is he reasonable or unreasonable?
Parallel structure
 “simple hell people give other people” – parallels to the Radleys (201)
 As the children’s boundaries are extended, there’s more pain to cry for
“case is as simple as black and white” – prejudice theme (203)
87. In his summation speech to the jury:
What does Attticus describe as Mayella’s offense?
She broke a time-honored code of their society and her actions were motivated by guilt (203)
How does Atticus partially excuse Mr. Ewell’s actions?
By saying that he did what any God-fearing, persevering, respectable white man would do under the
circumstances (204)
Where does Atticus say all men must truly be equal?
The courtroom (205)
88. Why does the author make it seem like an airtight case in Atticus’ favor just prior to the jury’s decision?
To create suspense for the reader
Dill and Scout are asked to judge the case of Mr. Raymond, and they find him innocent (against the majority of
Maycomb) – they return to the courtroom to watch the jury judge the case of Tom, but there’s a different
outcome – this is parallel structure
Ch. 21
89. What does Jem think when Atticus calls them from the balcony?
That Atticus has won the trial (206)
90. How does Scout know the verdict before it is read?
b/c a jury never looks at a defendant it has convicted, and when the jury came in, not one of them looked at
Tom Robinson (211)
91. What is Cal’s reaction to the children having been at the trial? What is Alexandra’s?
Cal was upset at Jem for taking scout; she yells at all 3 children (207-8); Alexandra almost faints when she sees
them but doesn’t say a word b/c Atticus is letting them go back (208)
The mockingbird imagery in Scout’s dream – parallel structure to the mad dog scene (210)
The black community gives a silent tribute to Atticus
 They understand the courage it took for him to do what he did – relates to courage theme (211)
 Perhaps they understand because they’ve lost more battles (211)
Ch. 22
92. What is Atticus’ response to Alexandra’s attempt to say the children shouldn’t have witnessed the trial?
He says that they’ve made Maycomb this way for them and they need to learn how to cope with it because it is
their home (212)
93. What is Aticus’ response to Jem’s question about how the jury could have convicted Tom?
He says “I don’t know but they did it. They’ve done it before and they did it tonight and they’ll do it again and
when they do it – seems that only children weep” (213)
Atticus tells Jem “it’s not time to worry yet” because Tom’s case will be appealed (213)
94. What causes Atticus’ eye to fill with tears?
That the black community has showered them with food during such a hard time to show their gratitude (213)
Miss Maudie gave Jem a slice from the big cake – shows he’s growing up (215)
95. What does Miss Maudie say about Atticus?
That some men in this world were born to do our unpleasant jobs for us and Atticus is one of them (215)
Dill wants to be a clown – this corresponds to the mockingbird motif (216)
Ch. 23
96. What had Bob Ewell done to Atticus after the trial? How does Atticus explain his behavior?
He stopped Atticus in the street, spat in his face, cursed at him, and threatened to kill him (217); Atticus says he
destroyed his last shred of credibility at the trial and he needs to take out his anger on someone – Atticus is just
glad it’s him and not Mayells (218)
Atticus responds to the fact of the incident, not the implied meaning, and his courage is misplaced – the conflict
with Bob Ewell isn’t over (218)
Worry motif – Atticus tells Scout about appealing Tom’s verdict - “Not time to worry yet Scout. We’ve got a
good chance.” (219)
Atticus’ definition of trash – a white man who threatens a black man (220)
Theme – courage – men have to make up their mind if they’re on a jury, and they don’t like to do this (222)
97. Why did Atticus say he selected a Cunningham for the jury?
b/c once you earn the respect of the Cunninghams, they stick with you and he felt like they left the courtroom
that night with respect for the Finches (222)
Aunt Alexandra’s definition of trash – the Cunninghams (224-225)
Jem’s theory of social organization – how long a family has been reading and writing (226)
Scout’s theory of social organization – there’s one kind of folks – folks (227)
 Jem is too old and wise for Scout’s conclusion
98. As a result of the conviction, Jem has a new theory about Boo Radley’s seclusion: what is it?
That he’s stayed shut up in the house because he wants to stay inside (227)
99. When Jem suggests juries should be done away with, what does Atticus suggest should be done instead?
Change the law so that only judges have the power of fixing the penalty in capital cases (220)
100. How does Atticus explain the fact that women can’t serve on juries in Alabama?
To protect frail ladies from sordid cases like Tom’s and the ladies would interrupt too much by asking questions
(221)
Ch. 24
Gives a humorous portrayal of Maycomb life
The Missionary Society meets for tea, cake, gossip, and good works
 Hypocrisy motif – women want to help the poor Mrunas overseas but ignore the world only a few miles
away from them
101. After their discussion of the Mrunas, what do the ladies of the missionary society do?
They talk about Helen Robinson (231)
102. What does Mrs. Merriweather say the cooks and field hands did after the trial? Why?
They sulked around, were dissatisfied with the verdict, and grumbled all of the next day (232)
Miss Maudie displays great courage (theme) in response to Mrs. Merriweather
 Cal, Maudie, and Aunt Alexandra all show Scout what a “lady” really is (233)
103. What is Mrs. Merriweather’s view of Northerners? Why does she hold this view?
She says they are hypocrites and have sin on their shoulders b/c they tell blacks they’re as good as whites but
still stay away from them – at least Southerners are honest with their feelings (235)
104. What news does Atticus bring about Tom Robinson?
He’s dead – he tried to escape from jail and was shot 17 times (235)
Sight images – Tom and Atticus really see what the world is like (235)
105. How does Atticus explain what Tom had done?
That Tom was tired of white men’s chances and decided to take his own (236)
Theme – courage
 Maycomb is trusting Atticus to do the right thing b/c he is one of the only ones courageous enough to do
it (236)
By the end of this chapter, Scout know what it means to be a lady
Briefly summarize Chapters 19-24
Chapters 25-28
Ch. 25
The Boo Radley mystery is about to return as the central plot
This is a powerful chapter about hopelessness
The mockingbird motif is broadened to include other helpless creatures and their vulnerability to casual
violence
 Jem tells Scout not to mash the roly poly because it doesn’t bother her (238)
 Compares Helen Robinson to a giant stepping on an ant
o Dill tells this story, which is appropriate because he is the most sensitive (240)
o Mr. Underwood’s editorial – “A sin to kill cripples” (241)
106. What is Scout’s assessment of Jem’s changed behavior after he won’t let her kill the roly poly?
That he was the one getting more and more like a girl every day (239)
107. Why is Maycomb only interested in the news about Tom’s death for two days?
Tom’s death was typical of what a black man would do – cut and run, have no plan, no thought for the future
(240)
108. What does Mr. Underwood say in his editorial?
A sin to kill cripples – likened Tom’s death to the senseless slaughter of songbirds by hunters and children
(241)
109. What conclusion does Scout come to about Tom after reading Mr. Underwood’s article?
That in the secret courts of men’s hearts, Atticus had no case – Tom was a dead man the minute Mayella Ewell
opened her mouth and screamed (241)
Scout figures out what it means to fight a losing battle – motif (241)
Also part of the mockingbird motif – Bob Ewell says “one down [Tom] and about two more to go [Judge Taylor
and Atticus]” – he speaks of them like they are less than human (241)
Ch. 26
Focus on education and prejudice – reinforces that idea that all real learning takes place outside of the
classroom
Jem is in 7th grade and Scout is in 3rd grade
110. What satirical points are made on the subject of education?
Illustrated in the incident with Miss Gates/Hitler/the courthouse – best lessons are learned in the real world
111. What does Scout fantasize about?
Meeting Boo Radley (242)
Scout is growing up – she’s no longer afraid of the Radley Place (242)
“a reasonable recluse”
o “People were just peculiar, I withdrew from them, an never thought about them until I was forced to” –
Scout is just like Boo now (243) – one way to deal with the world’s craziness is to withdraw
112. What comic incident is related in Chapter 27 and what function does it serve?
Misses Tutti and Frutti’s furniture stealing incident (251) – explains why Maycomb is having the Halloween
festival and pageant
113. What historical figure does Miss Gates condemn? Why does her condemnation confuse Scout?
Adolf Hitler – Scout thinks it’s not right to persecute anyone, yet Miss Gates condemns Hitler and is prejudiced
toward the blacks at home (247)
This lesson on democracy/Hitler/Jews reinforces the idea that real world education is more important (247)
Theme – prejudice – Atticus tells Scout that it’s not okay to hate anyone (246)
Jem is also a “reasonable recluse” – he never wants to hear about the courthouse again (247)
114. After Jen tries to comfort Scout for coming on stage at the wrong time, what does Scout realize about Jem?
That he was becoming almost as good as Atticus at making her feel right when things went wrong (259)
Ch. 27
115. Why does Bob Ewell lose his WPA job? Whom does he blame?
Because he’s lazy (248); this is a historical allusion
“Mr. Ewell found himself as forgotten as Tom Robinson” – this is sad because Tom died over the matter, yet
it’s forgotten in a couple of days (248)
Bob Ewell is terrorizing people – Judge Taylor, Helen Robinson – sets the mood for revenge (248-9)
Foreshadowing – Aunt Alexandra and Atticus aren’t going to the pageant
Ch. 28
116. What details in Chapters 27 and 28 add to the mounting tension before Jem and Scout are attacked?
Aunt Alexandra and Atticus aren’t attending, it’s Halloween, Bob Ewell has been terrorizing people, warm
night, no moon, “haints,” pitch black, cloudy – kids can’t see as they’re walking, hearing noises
“Thus began our longest night together” – very dramatic language
117. When Jem hears someone following Scout and him, who does he conclude it is?
Cecil Jacobs (260) - suspense
“Jem was becoming almost as good as Atticus at making you feel right when things went wrong” – he’s
growing up (259)
118. How does Scout know the body she touches with her toes is not Jem’s?
his face is not shaven and he smelled of whiskey (263)
119. When Scout reaches the street, what does she see in the light?
a person carrying Jem (263)
120. What, according to Dr. Reynolds, is Jem’s condition?
He has a broken arm and he is unconcscious (264)
121. Who is in Jem’s room besides Scout, Atticus, and Alexandra?
the man who brought Jem in (265)
122. What news does Sheriff Tate give Atticus?
Bob Ewell was found dead – he was stabbed in the chest with a kitchen knife (266)
Briefly summarize Chapters 25-28.
Chapters 29-31
Ch. 29
Scout’s reconstruction of the events of Ch. 28
123. Why hadn’t Atticus or any of the neighbors heard the children yelling?
they were listening to the radio
124. What conclusion does Sheriff Tate come to about Scout’s costume?
that it saved Scout’s life
125. According to the sheriff, what kind of man was Bob Ewell?
that he’s one of those men you have to shoot before you say hi to him, and he’s not even worth the bullet (269)
126. When Scout points to the man who saved Jem and looks at him closely, what does she realize? What does
she say and do?
that it’s Boo; she tells him “hi”
Ch. 30
127. Why does Atticus suggest they go to the porch instead of the living room?
the living room lights were too strong for Boo (271)
128. Who does Atticus think killed Bob Ewell?
Jem
129. What does Sheriff Tate say about Bob Ewell’s death?
that he fell on his knife and killed himself
Atticus – “nobody’s hushing this up. I don’t live that way” – this alludes to what Miss Maudie said about him
“he’s the same in his house as he is in the public street”
Atticus can’t lie about Jem killing Ewell because he has preached to his kids not to lie
130. When Atticus continues to argue with the sheriff about protecting Jem, what does the sheriff yell?
“God damn it, I’m not thinking of Jem!” – why is this line in italics? Who is he thinking of? (274)
131. What does the sheriff say the townspeople, including his wife, would do if they knew the truth about who
killed Bob Ewell? What does the sheriff say would be a sin?
All the ladies would bring Boo cakes and drag him into the limelight – it’s a sin to drag a man and his shy ways
into the limelight…if it were any other man, it’d be different (276)
Boo is a mockingbird…Heck has given Scout the clue she needs to connect the mockingbird lesson and point of
view lesson to the current situation – Scout tells Atticus she understands that Ewell “fell on his knife” because
“it be sort of like shootin’ a mockingbird”
132. What insight is gained into Heck Tate’s character?
he’s reasonable/fair
133. What is Scouts’ response when Atticus asks her if she can understand that “Mr. Ewell fell on his knife”?
she says she can, she hugs and kisses Atticus, and says it’d sort of be like killing a mockingbird (276)
Ch. 31
3 themes of courage, education, and prejudice are brought together
134. After Scout takes Boo home, what makes her sad?
that they had never put back into the tree what they got out of it – they had given Boo nothing (278)…is this
true?
“He gave us two soap dolls, a broken watch and chain, a pair of good luck pennies, and our lives” – author’s
style – uses the last item in a series to make a point; also does this when describing the jail in Ch. 15
“Atticus was right…you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes” – Scout has finally learned this
(279)
“Most people are Scout, when you finally see them” – blindness motif (281)
135. As Scout tells Atticus the story of The Gray Ghost, what does she say about Stoner’s Boy? What is
Atticus’ response?
that he hadn’t done anything terrible and that he was actually really nice – Atticus says most people are when
you finally see them (281)
Briefly summarize Chapters 29-31
Discussion Questions
136. What is the significance of the symbol of the mockingbird in relation to Tom Robinson?
137. What implications are made about education in the novel? (Chapters 2 and 26 specifically?)
138. Discuss whether To Kill a Mockingbird expresses a pessimistic or an optimistic view of life.
139. What are the implications in the novel about parent/child relationships?
140. The author shows that both children and adults kill mockingbirds. Which is worse and why?
Vocabulary from To Kill a Mockingbird
The following vocabulary words are listed in the order of appearance in the novel. Look up the
definitions of the words that are not already defined. List the page number where you found the word, so they
are easier to find.
You are responsible for knowing the definitions of all the words.
Chapter 1
________1. taciturn – disinclined to talk
________2. alleged – asserted without proof
________3. vapid – not lively; without spirit
________4. repertoire – a list of dramas, music, pieces or parts a person is prepared to perform
________5. malevolent – having, showing, or arising from intense, often vicious ill will
________6. culprit – one accused of or arraigned for a crime; one guilty of a crime
________7. predilection – a preference; predisposition in favor of something
________8. flivver – small cheap automobile
________9. foray – a quick raid or sudden attack
Chapter 2
________10. condescended – assumed an air of superiority
________11. illicitly – unlawfully; without permission
________12. indigenous – native to a particular region or species; inborn; innate
________13. entailment – the restricting of property by limiting the inheritance to the owner’s linear
descendants (children/grandchildren) or to a particular class thereof
________14. smilax – a delicate, twining greenhouse plant
________15. vexations – irritations; annoyances
Chapter 3
_______16. cootie – slang for head or body louse
________17. contemptuous – scornful; despising; disdainful
________18. contentious – belligerent; argumentative
________19. fractious – tending to be troublesome, quarrelsome, or irritable
________20. disapprobation – the act or state of being disapproved; condemnations
Chapter 4
________21. auspicious – propitious; favorable
________22. scuppernongs – yellowish, green, plum-flavored grapes
________23. arbitrated – decided’ determined
________24. mortifying – shameful; embarrassing
________25. Gothic – medieval; uncouth; barbarous
Chapter 5
________26. tacit – silently understood; unspoken
________27. asinine – lacking sound judgment; stupid; silly
Chapter 6
________27. ramshackle – appearing ready to collapse; rickety
________28. desolate – devoid of inhabitants or visitors; barren; empty
Chapter 7
________29. ascertaining – making certain; discovering; determining
Chapter 8
________30. unfathomable – unable to be measured or understood
________31. aberrations – deviations; straying from the right or normal way
________32. perpetrated – committed; carried out; brought about
________33. morphodite – probably meant to be hermaphrodite; something that is a combination of diverse
elements
________34. adjacent – not distant; nearby
________35. perplexity – the state of being confused or bewildered
Chapter 9
________36. inordinately – unregulated; disorderly; excessively
________37. ingenuous – noble; honorable; straightforward
________38. analogous – showing a likeness which permits one to draw an analogy; similar
________39. wary – marked by keen caution: cunning and watchful
________40. guilelessness – innocence; naiveté
________41. trousseau – the personal outfit of a bride usually including clothes
________42. ambrosia – a dessert made of oranges and shredded coconut
________43. (on) tenterhooks – being in a state of uneasiness, strain or suspense
________44. obstreperous – uncontrollably noisy; clamorous; unruly
________45. invective – of, relating to, or characterized by insult or abuse; denunciatory
Chapter 10
________46. vehemently – passionately; powerfully
________47. articulate – able to speak; expressing oneself clearly or effectively
Chapter 11
________48. passé – behind the times; outmoded
________49. melancholy – a depression of spirits; dejection; a pensive mood; sadness
________50. premise a proposition supporting a conclusion
________51. umbrage – resentful displeasure; personal offense
________52. rectitude – straightness; righteousness
________53. guff – slang for back talk; a disrespectful response; gossip
________54. interdict – prohibition; an order forbidding something to be done
________55. palliation – reduction of violence; moderation of intensity
________56. reconnaissance – a preliminary survey to gain information
________57. undulate – to form or move in waves; fluctuate
________58. propensities – natural inclinations; leanings
________59. cantankerous – ill-natured; quarrelsome
Chapter 12
________60. altercation – a noisy or angry dispute; a quarrel
________61. habiliments – style of dress characteristic of an occupation or occasion; clothes
________62. rotogravure – a photographic process in which the impression is produced by a rotary press; a
print made by this process
________63. ecclesiastical – of or relating to a church, especially as a formal and established institution
________64. austere – stern and forbidding in appearance and manner; grave; somber
Chapter 13
________65. prerogative – an exclusive or special right, power, or privilege
________66. obliquely – indirectly; deviously; underhandedly
Chapter 14
________66. infallible – incapable of error; sure; certain
Chapter 15
________67. acquiescence – acceptance; assent
________68. sullen – gloomy; resentfully silent or repressed; dismal
________70. futility – fruitlessness; uselessness
________71. venerable – respected or admired
Chapter 16
________72. formidable – causing fear, dread, or apprehension; awe-inspiring
________73. connivance – knowledge of and consent to wrongdoing
Chapter 17
________74. corroborating – supporting with evidence or authority
________75. acrimonious biting or rancorous especially in feeling, language, or manner
________76. haughty – disdainfully proud; arrogant
Chapter 18
________77. mollified – appeased; assuaged
Chapter 19
________78. ex cathedra – by virtue of or in the exercise of one’s office; authoritative
________79. impudent – insolent; contemptuous or cocky; boldness; disregard of others
Chapter 20
________80. unmitigated – not lessened; unrelieved
________81. temerity – rashness; foolishness
________82. integrity – honesty; incorruptibility
Chapter 22
________83. cynical – critical and distrustful of human nature and motives
________84. feral – savage; wild
Chapter 23
________85. credibility – believability; plausibility
________86. furtive – secretive; surreptitious
________87. wryly – ironically humorous
________88. hieroglyphic – written in, constituting, or belonging to a system or writing mainly in pictorial
characters, especially associated with ancient Egyptians
________89. adamant – unyielding; inflexible
________90. sordid – base; vile; filthy
Chapter 24
________91. impertinence – insolence; rudeness
________92. bovine – of, relating to, or resembling the ox or cow
________93. martyred – sacrificed for the sake of principle; constantly suffering
Chapter 26
________94. persecuted – harassed; made to suffer because of one’s beliefs
Chapter 27
________95. notoriety – the state of being widely and unfavorably known
________96. stealthily – secretively; slyly
________97. purloined – appropriated wrongfully; stolen
Chapter 28
________98. irascible – marked by hot temper and easily provoked to anger; cranky
________99. pinioned – disabled or restrained by binding the arms; shackled
________100. staccato – abrupt; disjointed; disconnected, primarily sound/ movement
Chapter 29
________101. garishly – glaringly; flashily; gaudily
Chapter 30
________102. stolidly – unemotionally
Chapter 31
________103. apprehensive – fearful; filled with anxiety