Questions and Answers
Why does Scout get in a fight with Cecil Jacobs?
He called Atticus a n*gger-lover
Why does Atticus feel he needs to defend Tom Robinson?
He's a member of Calpurnia's church and a clean living man with no criminal record. Atticus believes that he should be defended.
What do you think Atticus means when he says, 'Just because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win'?
He's talking about the Civil War and the fight for slavery which took place 100 years ago.
Where does the Finch family go every Christmas?
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What do the children get for Christmas?
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What problem does Aunt Alexandria have with the way Scout is growing up?
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Why does Scout get into a fight with Francis?
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Describe Scout's relationship with Uncle Jack.
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Name 5 things we learn about Atticus.
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According to Miss Maudie, why is it a sin to kill a mockingbird?
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What does Miss Maudie teach Scout about her father?
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Who is Tim Johnson? What is wrong with him?
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Why doesn't Mr. Tate give the rifle to Atticus rather than shooting the dog himself?
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Why do Jem and Scout have a new appreciation for Atticus?
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Describe Mrs. Dubose.
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Why does Jem destroy Mrs. Dubose's flower garden?
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What does Atticus mean when he says, 'This case, Tom Robinson's case, is something that goes to the essence of a man's conscience – Scout, I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man.'?
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What is Jem's punishment for ruining the flower garden?
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What does Atticus tell Jem was the one thing Mrs. Dubose wanted to do before she died?
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What does Mrs. Dubose give Jem?
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What is the reason Atticus wanted Jem to meet Mrs. Dubose?
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Study Notes
Scout's Conflicts and Relationships
- Scout fights Cecil Jacobs after he insults Atticus, showing the impact of familial reputation on children's interactions.
- Scout reacts violently towards Francis for calling Atticus a racial slur, illustrating her protective nature over her father.
- Scout's relationship with Uncle Jack is characterized by respect and love, despite her view of him as strict.
Atticus Finch and His Values
- Atticus believes in defending Tom Robinson, seeing him as a good man and a member of Calpurnia's community, emphasizing moral duty over societal prejudice.
- His statement about past injustices highlights the importance of resilience and fighting for what's right regardless of historical setbacks.
- Atticus's character is revealed as a man of integrity who reads often, is kind and fair-minded—traits that influence his parenting.
Christmas and Family Dynamics
- The Finch family travels to Aunt Alexandra's house for Christmas, showcasing family traditions.
- The children receive air rifles, symbolizing their transition into more mature experiences in a world of outdoor play and responsibility.
Aunt Alexandra's Influence
- Aunt Alexandra disapproves of Scout's tomboyish ways, attempting to instill femininity and social norms reflective of their community.
- The generational clash reveals differing views on gender roles within the Finch family.
Miss Maudie's Insights and Lessons
- Miss Maudie explains that killing a mockingbird symbolizes harming innocence, reflecting biblical morals regarding kindness and justice.
- She provides Scout with a deeper understanding of Atticus’s character, revealing his past experiences and abilities while dispelling any notions of blandness.
The Threat of Rabies and Sudden Harm
- Tim Johnson, a rabid dog, serves as a catalyst for the action that reveals Atticus’s sharp shooting skills, contrasting his aversion to guns with his capability when necessary.
- Atticus’s reluctance to take the rifle himself stems from his humility and belief in Mr. Tate’s safety over his own proficiency.
Mrs. Dubose and Demonstrating Courage
- Mrs. Dubose is depicted as a sickly, harsh character battling morphine addiction, representing the struggle against personal demons.
- Jem's destruction of her flower garden is a reaction to her prior insults and serves as a teenage rebellion, while his punishment of reading to her illustrates themes of empathy and understanding of true courage.
Life Lessons and Growth
- Atticus teaches Jem about courage through Mrs. Dubose's battle against addiction, challenging the notion that strength comes solely from physical prowess.
- The box of flowers Jem receives signifies Mrs. Dubose’s acknowledgment of his efforts and her victory over her struggles, representing personal triumph even in death.
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Description
Explore the significant conflicts and relationships portrayed in 'To Kill a Mockingbird.' This quiz delves into Scout Finch's protective nature, Atticus Finch's moral convictions, and the dynamics of family during the Christmas season. Test your understanding of the themes and character interactions that illustrate the social challenges in the story.