To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 10 Review

Questions and Answers

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?

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?

He kills the mad dog (rabies) with a single shot between the eyes.

How can you characterize Atticus at this point in the book?

He likes to help people and is courageous. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Jem say that they should not tell anyone at school about the incident?

Atticus is a modest person; Jem understands this and feels that it wouldn't be right to brag about him. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus say when asked who is the rabid dog?

Tim Johnson, dog with rabies. Signup and view all the answers

What instrument could Atticus play?

The Jew's harp. Signup and view all the answers

What did they call Atticus?

One-shot Finch/ Ol' One-shot. Signup and view all the answers

What does the gun symbolize?

Seen as an abuse or misuse of power and authority. Signup and view all the answers

What does the mad dog symbolize?

Madness that Atticus has to face now that he has taken on Tom Robinson's case. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Heck Tate?

Sheriff. Signup and view all the answers

Why don't the kids know about Atticus's nickname?

Atticus doesn't take pride in being able to shoot animals well. Signup and view all the answers

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'?

Miss Maudie. Signup and view all the answers

Who said, 'Sweet Jesus help him'?

Calpurnia. Signup and view all the answers

Who said, 'You were a little too the right, Mr. Finch'?

Mr. Tate. Signup and view all the answers

Who is like a mockingbird?

Atticus, Tom Robinson, Cal, Boo Radley, and Miss Maudie. Signup and view all the answers

What does Miss Maudie say about why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird?

They sing their hearts out, they don't mess up the gardens, they don't nest in the food supply, they make music for us to enjoy, easy targets. Signup and view all the answers

What does the mockingbird symbolize?

A person who is harmless, selfless, peaceful, defenseless, and does nice things for others. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus say about mockingbirds? What is this to Atticus?

You can kill the blue-jays but 'It's a sin to kill a mockingbird'. It's a moral, central guiding belief of Atticus. Signup and view all the answers

Who said, 'I haven't shot a gun in thirty years!'?

Atticus. Signup and view all the answers

Who said, 'Don’t go near him, he's just as dangerous dead as alive.'?

Atticus. Signup and view all the answers

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.

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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.