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Theme Of Heroism In To Kill A Mockingbird

Decent Essays

The bildungsroman To Kill a Mockingbird is written by Pulitzer Prize winner Harper Lee. This story is considered to be a masterpiece of American literature as it is set in Alabama during the Great Depression and is based upon stereotypes and racial tension. This story begins when Jean Louise “Scout” Finch, Jem, her brother, and Dill, her fiance, become inquisitive about a man named Boo Radley who is supposedly a monster. Later in the novel, Atticus Finch, the father to Scout and Jem, has an obligation to defend Tom Robinson, a crippled black man, in a court case. He is accused of raping and assaulting a young, white woman named Mayella Ewell. Lastly, Calpurnia is the chef and “motherly-figure” to the Finch family. Calpurnia, Tom Robinson, and Boo Radley are restricted due to their gender, race, and social class, but none the less, they are able to overcome their limitations and demonstrate heroic traits. Calpurnia, one of the three marginalized characters, is held back due to her gender, but still displays heroism. Because Calpurnia is a black woman, many people look at her differently and do not treat her the same as others, such as Aunt Alexandra. When Aunt Alexandra demands “‘Put my bag in the front room, Calpurnia,’” it is clear that she does not consider Calpurnia as an equal (Lee 169). Also, Aunt Alexandra implies that she is not a good female role model when she explains to Scout that “‘Jem’s growing up now and so are you too…. We decided that it would be best for you

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