To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 9 Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Why was Scout so upset with Cecil Jacobs?

Cecil Jacobs announced to the schoolyard that Scout Finch's daddy defends ******s.

How does Scout initially respond to Cecil Jacobs' actions?

Scout got very upset and almost fought with him.

What does Atticus mean when he tells Scout, 'Don't say ******, Scout. That's common'?

It shows that Atticus has respect for everyone.

What job did Atticus take, and why are people saying mean things about it?

Atticus is defending a black man in court. People may be saying mean things about him because they live in a very racist town. Signup and view all the answers

What advice did Atticus give to Scout about dealing with people who say hurtful things?

He told Scout to 'Hold your head high and keep those fists down.' Signup and view all the answers

Does Scout attempt to heed her father's advice? Why or why not?

Scout walked away from a budding fight between her and Cecil Jacobs. She did this because she did not want to let Atticus down. Signup and view all the answers

If Atticus has very little chance of winning the case, then why does he still agree to represent Tom Robinson?

He represents him because Atticus wouldn't be able to hold his head up in public and he would lose credibility with Jem and Scout. Signup and view all the answers

Where does Atticus' family go each Christmas? Who all is there?

They go to Finch's Landing each Christmas. Jack Finch, Alexandra Finch and her husband, Francis, and Atticus's family attend. Signup and view all the answers

How is Francis related to Scout? How does she feel about him?

Francis is Scout's nephew. She doesn't really like him, saying, 'I had already begun to think of shooting Francis.' Signup and view all the answers

Why does Scout insist on swearing so often? How is it part of a larger plan? Is the plan working? Why or why not?

Scout has picked it up from school. If Atticus finds that she's been learning these words, he won't make her go. It doesn't work: Uncle Jack pulls her aside and tells her to not swear. Signup and view all the answers

In this chapter, there are several references made to what 'boys should do' and 'girls should do.' Find examples of this, and explain whether or not this is a similar expectation today.

'I could not possibly hope to be a lady if I wore breeches; when I said I could do nothing in a dress, she said I wasn't supposed to be doing things that required pants.' Signup and view all the answers

What does Francis say about Dill? What ideas does he express about Atticus?

Francis says that Dill is a little runt, being passed from relative to relative. He also calls Atticus a '******-lover' and claims that he is ruining the family. Signup and view all the answers

Is Atticus optimistic that he can win the case? Why or why not?

No, because it is Tom Robinson's word against the Ewells. It is like saying it's a white person vs a black person, and all the jurors are white, giving them an advantage. Signup and view all the answers

What is Maycomb's usual disease? What does Atticus mean when he says he hopes he can get Jem and Scout through the case without catching the disease?

The disease is racism. Atticus means he doesn't want Jem and Scout to become prejudiced as a result of the case. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Atticus want Scout to hear every word that he told Jack?

He wants her to hear every word so she will try her best not to become racist. Signup and view all the answers

Where is Francis likely to get his ideas about Atticus? Why is this worth noting?

He most likely gets his ideas from Aunt Alexandra. This is notable because Aunt Alexandra is Atticus's sister and she is saying rude things about him. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Scout so angry when Uncle Jack holds her accountable for starting the fight with Francis? What does Jack learn as a result?

Scout is angry because she is blamed for something that stemmed from Francis's comments about Atticus. Uncle Jack learns that the situation is more complicated than it seems. Signup and view all the answers

When Jack and Atticus talk, what does Atticus say he wants Scout to learn? Why is he more concerned about her than Jem?

Atticus says, 'Scout's got to learn to keep her head and learn soon, with what's in store for her these next few months.' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scout and Cecil Jacobs

Scout's upset stems from Cecil announcing that her father defends a black man, leading to embarrassment and anger.
Her initial reaction was to fight Cecil, showcasing her fiery temperament.

Atticus's Lessons

Atticus advises Scout against using derogatory language, emphasizing respect for all individuals.
He instructs her to "hold your head high and keep those fists down," promoting dignity and self-control.

Atticus's Defense of Tom Robinson

Atticus takes on the case despite knowing it will provoke backlash in their racist community; he prioritizes integrity over public opinion.
He believes not representing Tom Robinson would diminish his moral authority as a father.

Family Dynamics and Christmas Traditions

The Finch family gathers at Finch's Landing for Christmas, including Jack Finch, Alexandra Finch, and her family.

Scout's Relationship with Francis

Francis, Scout’s nephew, is disliked by her, indicating familial tensions; she expresses feelings of hostility towards him.

Swearing and its Consequences

Scout's swearing is a misguided attempt to assert independence, which fails as Uncle Jack reprimands her when he discovers it.

Gender Expectations

Traditional stereotypes are evident; Scout feels restricted by societal norms dictating behavior based on gender roles.
The text highlights how certain traits and interests are divided along gender lines, still relevant in today's discussions on gender expectations.

Atticus's Reputation and Racism

Francis insults Dill and derogatorily labels Atticus as a "******-lover," revealing underlying family prejudices.
Atticus expresses doubt about winning the case, underscoring racial disparities in the justice system and community prejudice.

"Maycomb's usual disease" symbolizes the pervasive racism in the community, which Atticus aims to shield his children from.

Uncle Jack's Realization

Uncle Jack learns the complexities of Scout's situation when he hears her recount the fight with Francis and the unfairness of his reprimand.

Atticus's Concerns for Scout

Atticus's concerns focus on Scout's ability to navigate upcoming challenges, indicating the importance of resilience and emotional strength for her future.

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Description

Test your understanding of Chapter 9 in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' with these flashcards. Explore key moments and character interactions, focusing on Scout's feelings and Atticus's guidance. This quiz delves into the novel's themes of racism and moral upbringing.