To Kill A Mockingbird
...novel To Kill a Mockingbird. Many of the critiques of this novel deal with the novels theme, southern racism during the 1930's. Other critiques deal with the books setting, Maycomb, Alabama. Still, other critiques deal with Harper Lee's writing style. And, another topic that the critiques of To Kill a Mockingbird have in common is Mrs. Lee's choice to write the novel through the eyes of children.
To Kill a Mockingbird has been criticized by many authors. Many of the critiques are either about the setting or theme of the novel. One critique in particular, deals with both the theme and the setting, among other things:
Set in the 30's in Maycomb, Alabama
Tells the story of racial tension during a rape trial of Tom Robinson
.Vividly describes minor characters
Jem Matures throughout the story
The story is told by Scout Finch
The story is about rape and racism
Realistically reflects the reality of racism in the south during the 1930's
To Kill a Mockingbird was turned into a movie. (Esselman 1367-76)
The setting and the writing style of Harper Lee is also touched on:
Harper Lee's Maycomb County bears out many of the stereotypes commonly attributed to the south and southerners regarding race relations. In the midst of portraying negative attitudes and prejudices, however, a truer face of the south shines through in the actions of the Finch family. Lee skillfully balances Atticus and his children with symbols of life in a "typical" southern town to draw a sharp distinction between those who would live the life they are told to live and those whose consideration of the world around them make their lives richer and more meaningful. (Symbols of Race)
The subject of Harper Lee writing about the children in the novel is also discussed.
"Harper Lee seems to be showing the children as realistic characters in the midst of a...
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