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Examples Of Character Development In To Kill A Mockingbird

Decent Essays
In the first several chapters of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the novel develops in its characters, plot, conflicts, etc. which are influenced by setting and theme, among other factors. One example of character development in the novel’s first seven chapters is the story’s main character: Jean Louise Finch. In the earlier chapters, specifically chapter three, Scout isn’t the most pleasant toward a fellow, poorer classmate named Walter Cunningham, whose family is known for being especially poor. But in chapter seven, the reader sees, briefly, that she has grown a bit more open minded when it comes to poorer people. For example, when Walter is invited over for dinner, Scout acts insensitively, questioning his eating choices and saying, “He ain’t company, Cal, he’s just a Cunningham--” (27). Nevertheless, Scout later says, “Don’t take it Jem… This is somebody’s hiding place… Somebody like Walter Cunningham comes down here every recess and hides his things-- and we come along and take ‘em away from him” (66) when Jem tries to take a ball of twine hidden in a tree. Comparing these two instances, the latter shows Scout’s development for she is no longer saying ignorant things, but being thoughtful for those less privileged than her. The novel first begins with describing the summer Scout and Jem first met Dill and how the latter dared Jem to touch the infamous Radley house. After that summer, Jem and Scout begin the school year and Scout is met with Miss Caroline, a
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