Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why are the children a little disappointed and a little ashamed when they compare Atticus to other fathers?
Why are the children a little disappointed and a little ashamed when they compare Atticus to other fathers?
He is older than the other fathers and does not seem interested in doing athletic, brave, masculine things that Jem and Scout see the other fathers do.
Why is it a sin to kill a mockingbird?
Why is it a sin to kill a mockingbird?
Mockingbirds do nothing to harm anyone, all they do is make music and sing their hearts out for people to enjoy.
What does Atticus do that surprises the children and makes them feel proud?
What does Atticus do that surprises the children and makes them feel proud?
He kills the mad dog (rabies) with a single shot between the eyes.
How can you characterize Atticus at this point in the book?
How can you characterize Atticus at this point in the book?
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Why does Jem say that they should not tell anyone at school about the incident?
Why does Jem say that they should not tell anyone at school about the incident?
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What does Atticus say when asked who is the rabid dog?
What does Atticus say when asked who is the rabid dog?
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What instrument could Atticus play?
What instrument could Atticus play?
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What did they call Atticus?
What did they call Atticus?
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What does the gun symbolize?
What does the gun symbolize?
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What does the mad dog symbolize?
What does the mad dog symbolize?
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Who is Heck Tate?
Who is Heck Tate?
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Why don't the kids know about Atticus's nickname?
Why don't the kids know about Atticus's nickname?
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Who said, 'Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy... That's why it is a sin to kill a Mockingbird'?
Who said, 'Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy... That's why it is a sin to kill a Mockingbird'?
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Who said, 'Sweet Jesus help him'?
Who said, 'Sweet Jesus help him'?
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Who said, 'You were a little too the right, Mr. Finch'?
Who said, 'You were a little too the right, Mr. Finch'?
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Who is like a mockingbird?
Who is like a mockingbird?
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What does Miss Maudie say about why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird?
What does Miss Maudie say about why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird?
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What does the mockingbird symbolize?
What does the mockingbird symbolize?
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What does Atticus say about mockingbirds? What is this to Atticus?
What does Atticus say about mockingbirds? What is this to Atticus?
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Who said, 'I haven't shot a gun in thirty years!'?
Who said, 'I haven't shot a gun in thirty years!'?
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Who said, 'Don’t go near him, he's just as dangerous dead as alive.'?
Who said, 'Don’t go near him, he's just as dangerous dead as alive.'?
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Study Notes
Chapter 10 Overview
- Children feel disappointment and shame comparing Atticus to other fathers due to his age and lack of interest in traditional masculine activities.
- Killing a mockingbird symbolizes the protection of the innocent, as they only bring joy through their song.
Atticus Finch
- Atticus surprises his children by shooting a rabid dog with a single, precise shot, revealing his hidden skills.
- Characterized as courageous and compassionate, Atticus defends Tom Robinson despite societal opposition, embodying civilized values.
- He emphasizes modesty; Jem refrains from boasting about Atticus’s skills, respecting his father's humility.
Symbolism
- Mockingbirds symbolize harmless and selfless individuals who do good for others, representing figures like Atticus, Tom Robinson, Calpurnia, Boo Radley, and Miss Maudie.
- The mad dog represents the community's racism and madness that Atticus confronts in his defense of Robinson.
- Atticus’s statement about blue jays and mockingbirds encapsulates his moral compass and central beliefs against unjust harm.
Significant Quotes
- Miss Maudie articulates why it's a sin to kill mockingbirds, highlighting their innocent contributions and harmless nature.
- Jem acknowledges Atticus's gentlemanly qualities, emphasizing familial pride and respect.
- Various characters express concern and admiration, showcasing community dynamics and the varying perceptions of Atticus's actions.
Additional Key Points
- Atticus plays the Jew's harp, showcasing a lesser-known aspect of his personality.
- The gun symbolizes potential abuse of power; its use against the mad dog parallels the misuse seen in the justice system.
- The rabid dog, Tim Johnson, symbolizes the madness of societal prejudice that Atticus battles while defending an innocent man.
Contextual Elements
- Understanding the children's initial misunderstanding of Atticus helps to illustrate their growth throughout the novel.
- Atticus’s nickname, "One-shot Finch," remains unknown to the children as he chooses not to emphasize this aspect of his identity.
- Heck Tate serves as the sheriff, playing a role in the events surrounding Atticus's confrontation with the mad dog and later, racially charged tensions in Maycomb.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your understanding of Chapter 10 in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' with this set of review flashcards. Discover key themes and character comparisons that highlight Atticus Finch's unique parenting style and the moral lesson regarding mockingbirds. Perfect for reinforcing knowledge before a deeper discussion or exam.
