Literary Analysis Essay On To Kill A Mockingbird

Words: 1459
Pages: 6

The Literary Essay - To Kill a Mockingbird

‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ is a riveting novel written by Harper Lee, depicting discrimination in Maycomb, Alabama in the 1930s. In reference to the title ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, Harper Lee uses the mockingbird as a symbol for the vulnerable members of our society. The mockingbird is a symbol of innocence, simply because they are gentle creatures, who do no harm, but they are susceptible to physical, or in this case, emotional attack. Harper Lee portrays multiple symbolic mockingbirds in her historical novel, although three characters seemed to be the most apparent : Tom Robinson, Boo Radley and Mayella Ewell. These particular characters come from very distinct backgrounds and each have, undoubtedly,
…show more content…
Tom Robinson is a member of the black community in Maycomb, convicted of a crime he did not commit. Due to his african-american origins, he is considered a minority and is highly discriminated against and oppressed. After being assaulted by Mayella Ewell, Tom Robinson is looked at as an easy target to blame for a crime he was in fact the victim of. Although, surprisingly, Tom Robinson and Mayella Ewell had previously shared a considerably abnormal relationship. Mayella often asked Tom to aid her in her daily chores and he did so happily. Mayella was a rather lonesome young lady, and Tom greatly sympathized with her, and this could clearly be seen throughout his testimony. “I felt right sorry for her,” (197) . Tom Robinson left the spectators in awe after exclaiming his commiseration for his attacker. With this particular quotation, it is almost proven that Tom never wanted to cause any trouble, let alone harm Mayella. During the time “To Kill a Mockingbird” was released, the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing and it was a very difficult time period for the black people of the United States of America. Harper Lee’s release date seemed