To Kill a Mockingbird Character Insights

Questions and Answers

Describe Miss Maudie Atkinson.

Miss Maudie is a widow who loves to garden and is always outside. She has a crisp way of speaking and smiles a lot.

Why does Scout like Miss Maudie so much?

Scout and the other kids like her because she is kind, generous, honest, and treats them with respect.

What does Scout mean when she says that Miss Maudie was a 'chameleon lady'?

Scout means that her appearance could change dramatically, as she would look different after her evening bath.

What does Miss Maudie mean when she refers to Mr. Radley as a 'foot-washing Baptist'?

Foot-washing Baptists take the Bible literally and believe that anything that's pleasurable is a sin. Signup and view all the answers

How might Mr. Radley's religious views explain why Mrs. Radley is rarely seen outside of the house?

Mr. Radley's rigid religious views might cause her to be confined to the house against her will. Signup and view all the answers

What causes Scout to question 'pulpit Gospel' and how does this relate to Miss Maudie?

Scout questions 'pulpit Gospel' after learning that Miss Maudie is supposedly going to hell despite her kindness. Signup and view all the answers

What is God, according to Atticus?

According to Atticus, God is loving folks like you love yourself. Signup and view all the answers

When Miss Maudie criticizes Mr. Radley, what is the point of her criticism?

She criticizes Mr. Radley for his extreme religious views, which led him to punish Boo excessively. Signup and view all the answers

How do Miss Maudie and Atticus view Boo Radley?

They view him as a kind human being rather than a monster and believe he deserves privacy. Signup and view all the answers

What was Dill's idea for getting Boo to come out of his house?

Dill proposed attaching a note to the end of a fishing pole to ask Boo to come out. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Miss Maudie Atkinson

Widow residing in the neighborhood, known for her love of gardening and outdoor presence.
Characterized by her crisp speech and frequent smiles, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

Scout’s Affection for Miss Maudie

Scout appreciates Miss Maudie's kindness, generosity, and respect towards children, emphasizing her non-intrusive nature.

"Chameleon Lady" Reference

Described as adaptable in appearance; she works in casual attire but transforms into a figure of beauty when cleaning up.

Foot-washing Baptists

Miss Maudie explains this denomination's literal interpretation of the Bible, stressing beliefs that associate pleasure with sin and view women as innately sinful.

Mrs. Radley's Seclusion

Mr. Radley's beliefs potentially confine Mrs. Radley to their home, indicating she may be a victim of her husband’s oppressive views.

Scout’s Crisis of Faith

The harsh judgment from a foot-washing Baptist causes Scout to doubt traditional religious teachings, particularly regarding Miss Maudie’s kindness.

Atticus's Definition of God

Atticus defines God as embodying love and respect for others, aligning with his compassionate character.

Critique of Mr. Radley

Miss Maudie's analogy compares Mr. Radley's extreme religious views negatively against moderate indulgence, showing how his rigidity directly harms Boo Radley.

Perspectives on Boo Radley

Miss Maudie and Atticus view Boo not as a monster, but as a kind and misunderstood individual, acknowledging his right to privacy and choosing to stay indoors.

Dill's Plan to Contact Boo

The children intend to send a note via fishing pole to invite Boo Radley outside, assuring him of their friendly intentions and a promise of ice cream.

Description

This quiz explores the character of Miss Maudie Atkinson from 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. It focuses on her relationships with Scout and the community, as well as insights into her beliefs and the societal norms surrounding her. Test your understanding of her significance in the novel and her effect on Scout’s perspective.