Questions and Answers
Why does Aunt Alexandra come to visit? How does Scout feel about her arrival?
Aunt Alexandra believes Scout needs feminine influence as Jem is growing up. Scout is not happy about Aunt Alexandra's arrival and has not gotten along well with her in the past.
What is Aunt Alexandra's major theory concerning human behavior? How does Jem point out the irrationality of this theory?
Aunt Alexandra believes that heredity determines behavior, and that families have inbred 'streaks' predicting behavior. Jem highlights its irrationality by questioning how the Ewells can be considered fine folks due to their long family presence in an area.
Scout states that there is a 'caste system' in Maycomb. How does she explain the system?
Scout explains that in Maycomb, people are locked into classes based on family history, and their actions do not change their classification. Expectations are based on generational behaviors.
When Atticus comes into Jem's room before bedtime to speak with the children, what information does he relay to them from Aunt Alexandra? What is his demeanor and tone? Do you think he believes in what Aunt Alexandra has made him say?
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What makes Scout cry while Atticus is talking with her and Jem?
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How do the last few paragraphs indicate that Atticus was merely following Aunt Alexandra's orders and that he feels bad about doing so?
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Study Notes
Aunt Alexandra's Influence
- Aunt Alexandra believes Scout needs female guidance as Jem matures, anticipating Scout's future interests in fashion and relationships.
- Scout feels unhappy about Aunt Alexandra's arrival and has had previous conflicts with her, rejecting the traditional feminine ideals imposed.
Heredity and Behavior
- Aunt Alexandra holds a belief in hereditary influences on behavior, categorizing families by inbred "streaks" such as drinking or gambling.
- She suggests that a family's established history determines their worth, critiqued by Jem when he points out the Ewells' poor behavior contradicts Alexandra’s theory.
Maycomb's Caste System
- Maycomb has a rigid caste system where social status is defined by family history rather than individual actions or merit.
- Scout illustrates this by highlighting how predictable the attitudes and behaviors of various families are over generations.
Atticus' Dilemma
- Atticus conveys Aunt Alexandra's message that he and Scout are of "gentle breeding" and must behave as proper gentlemen and ladies.
- His demeanor is uncomfortable and hesitant, indicating he does not genuinely believe in exposing his children to these class-based values.
Scout's Emotional Conflict
- Scout becomes emotional during Atticus' conversation, feeling disconnected from him as he expresses beliefs contrary to his true values.
- The realization that her father is saying things he does not believe shocks Scout, leading to feelings of alienation.
Atticus' Regret
- After insisting on familial behavior, Atticus tells Scout to forget the instructions from Aunt Alexandra, acknowledging they contradict his own principles.
- This moment reveals his reluctance to enforce Aunt Alexandra's demands, admitting regret for not upholding his values in front of his children.
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Description
This quiz focuses on Chapter 13 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird', highlighting key themes and character dynamics, particularly the influence of Aunt Alexandra on Scout. Test your knowledge of the chapter's pivotal moments and character interactions in this engaging flashcard format.
