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Questions and Answers
How does the title of the story come out in chapter 10?
How does the title of the story come out in chapter 10?
Jem is given a gun for Christmas and is allowed to shoot but is told that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird.
Who explains why it is a sin to kill a mockingbird? How does she explain this?
Who explains why it is a sin to kill a mockingbird? How does she explain this?
Mrs. Maudie explains that all mockingbirds do is make music without harm.
Explain the plot structure of chapter 10.
Explain the plot structure of chapter 10.
At the beginning, they complain about how old Atticus is and how deteriorated he is. At the end, he shoots the dog with a perfect shot, showing how special Atticus is, which is ironic because Atticus hates guns.
Why do you suppose that Atticus never revealed his special talent to his children?
Why do you suppose that Atticus never revealed his special talent to his children?
How does Mrs. Maudie explain why Atticus has not touched a gun in 30 years?
How does Mrs. Maudie explain why Atticus has not touched a gun in 30 years?
Describe the character Mrs. Dubose.
Describe the character Mrs. Dubose.
Was Jem justified in what he did to Mrs. Dubose's property?
Was Jem justified in what he did to Mrs. Dubose's property?
What does the quote, 'The one thing that does not abide by majority rule is a person's conscience,' mean?
What does the quote, 'The one thing that does not abide by majority rule is a person's conscience,' mean?
What is Jem's punishment for destroying Mrs. Dubose's flowers?
What is Jem's punishment for destroying Mrs. Dubose's flowers?
What is Mrs. Dubose's one redeeming feature?
What is Mrs. Dubose's one redeeming feature?
Why would Atticus have had Jem read to Mrs. Dubose even if he hadn't ruined her flowers?
Why would Atticus have had Jem read to Mrs. Dubose even if he hadn't ruined her flowers?
Is there anything ironic about the First Purchase Church?
Is there anything ironic about the First Purchase Church?
What confrontation are Jem and Scout greeted with at the First Purchase Church?
What confrontation are Jem and Scout greeted with at the First Purchase Church?
How does the black church differ from the white church?
How does the black church differ from the white church?
What is Tom Robinson accused of?
What is Tom Robinson accused of?
Explain Calpurnia speaking two different languages.
Explain Calpurnia speaking two different languages.
Study Notes
Chapter Insights from To Kill a Mockingbird (Chapters 10-12)
- The title reflects a significant theme: Jem receives a gun but is told killing a mockingbird is a sin, highlighting innocence and moral lessons.
- Mrs. Maudie explains that mockingbirds only create music and do no harm, emphasizing the value of protecting those who do no wrong.
- Chapter 10 showcases Atticus Finch's unexpected marksmanship when he shoots a rabid dog, countering children's views of his age and fragility, and illustrating his hidden talents which he prefers to keep private.
- Atticus's humility, exemplified by his aversion to killing, is the reason he doesn't share his shooting skill with his children to prevent pride and entitlement.
- Mrs. Maudie describes Atticus as civilized; his choice to shun firearms reflects his belief in fairness and restraint.
- Mrs. Dubose, suffering from morphine addiction, serves as a lesson in patience and strength for Jem and Scout, illustrating the complexities of character and courage.
- Jem's retaliation against Mrs. Dubose’s property is misguided; it stems from misunderstanding her harsh words about their father, revealing youthful impulsiveness.
- Atticus teaches that conscience is paramount to societal opinion; he defends Tom Robinson based on personal conviction, regardless of majority beliefs.
- Jem's punishment for damaging Mrs. Dubose’s flowers involves reading to her for two hours daily for a month, demonstrating the link between accountability and growth.
- Mrs. Dubose’s legacy includes leaving Jem a flower, symbolizing her complex character and the lessons she imparts about overcoming struggles.
- Atticus recognizes Mrs. Dubose’s battle against addiction as a form of true courage, paralleling the upcoming trial of Tom Robinson with the personal struggles people face.
- The First Purchase Church presents irony through racial exclusion, suggesting complexities of social dynamics and socioeconomic struggles within the community.
- Jem and Scout experience initial hostility at the church from Lula, yet Zeebo’s welcoming attitude indicates community complexities and their openness to connection.
- Key differences between black and white churches include the absence of hymn books, literacy challenges, and financial obligations, illustrating systemic barriers faced by the black community.
- Tom Robinson is accused of raping Mayella Ewell, highlighting significant racial and social injustices central to the narrative.
- Calpurnia’s bilingualism demonstrates cultural adaptability; she switches dialects to connect with her community and navigate her dual existence between white and black societal norms.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Chapters 10 to 12 from 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. This quiz covers key themes such as the significance of the mockingbird, character insights, and plot developments. Prepare to explore the deeper meanings behind Harper Lee's iconic work.