To Kill a Mockingbird Themes and Hypocrisy

Questions and Answers

Who are the Mrunas, and why is the missionary circle interested in them?

The Mrunas are a tribe of people that the missionary circle is trying to civilize and Christianize.

Who says, 'If we just let them know we forgive 'em, that we've forgotten it, then this whole thing'll blow over.' What is she talking about? What is ironic about her statement?

Mrs. Merriweather is talking about Maycomb's black community and the after-effects of Tom Robinson's trial.

What is hypocritical about the concern the ladies of the missionary circle have for the Mrunas?

They want to 'civilize' blacks from another country but refuse to treat them as equals at home.

When Mrs. Merriweather claims, 'there are some good but misguided people in this town,' what is she referring to?

She is making a veiled criticism of Atticus and his defense of Tom Robinson. Signup and view all the answers

What does Miss Maudie say that silences Mrs. Merriweather?

'His food doesn't stick going down does it?' Signup and view all the answers

Why does Scout prefer the company of men over women?

Because she doesn't understand women. Signup and view all the answers

What does Calpurnia say to Miss Rachel's cook about Tom's despair? What was the last thing told to Atticus?

She said there wasn't a thing Atticus could do to make it easier for him, 'Good-bye, Mr. Finch, there ain't nothin' you can do now, so there ain't no use tryin'. Signup and view all the answers

When Atticus arrives home, what news does he bring about Tom?

He's been shot dead. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you think Tom ran for the fence? Why keep running even if the guards warned him?

He wanted things under his own control. Signup and view all the answers

What does Aunt Alexandra mean when she asks, 'What else do they want from him Maudie, what else?'

Aunt Alexandra is referring to the town asking Atticus to defend Tom Robinson and then torturing him. Signup and view all the answers

How does Maudie reply to Alexandra's question? What literary device is used in her response?

Miss Maudie tries to make Alexandra view the situation in a different light, using repetition. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Missionary Circle and the Mrunas

Aunt Alexandra hosts a missionary circle interested in civilizing and converting the Mrunas, a foreign tribe.
The missionary circle's intentions highlight their lack of concern for the local black community while trying to "help" another group.

Mrs. Merriweather's Statement

Mrs. Merriweather's comment about forgiving the black community refers to the aftermath of Tom Robinson's trial.
Ironic because she suggests that forgiveness will restore normalcy, ignoring the deep racial tensions and injustices.

Hypocrisy of the Ladies

Ladies of the missionary circle express concern for the Mrunas while failing to treat local black citizens as equals.
This duality emphasizes their hypocrisy and underlying racism.

Criticism of Atticus

Mrs. Merriweather comments on "misguided" individuals, indirectly criticizing Atticus Finch for his defense of Tom Robinson.
Reflects the community's division regarding issues of race and morality.

Miss Maudie's Retort

Miss Maudie's response to Mrs. Merriweather, "His food doesn't stick going down does it?" serves to silence her with irony.
Suggests that Mrs. Merriweather's moral superiority is unfounded.

Scout’s Preference

Scout prefers male company due to her difficulty understanding women's perspectives and behavior.
Highlights her struggles with gender roles and expectations in Maycomb.

Calpurnia's Conversation

Calpurnia tells Miss Rachel's cook that there is nothing Atticus can do to alleviate Tom's despair.
Emphasizes the hopelessness of the situation, with Tom feeling resigned to his fate.

News of Tom's Death

Atticus brings the devastating news that Tom Robinson has been shot dead while trying to escape prison.
This event marks a significant turning point, demonstrating the harsh realities of racial injustice.

Tom's Desperation

Tom ran for the fence, maintaining a desire for autonomy and control over his fate despite warnings from guards.
His actions reflect the desperation felt by many in dire circumstances.

Aunt Alexandra's Frustration

Aunt Alexandra's query about what else the town expects from Atticus addresses the relentless pressure he faces.
Points to the emotional and moral toll that defending Tom Robinson has on Atticus.

Miss Maudie's Perspective

Miss Maudie attempts to shift Aunt Alexandra’s viewpoint, indicating the use of repetition as a literary device.
Highlights the struggle to comprehend the full impact of racial issues in their community.

Description

Explore the themes of hypocrisy and racial injustice in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. This quiz delves into the actions and statements of the missionary circle and their contrasting attitudes toward the Mrunas and the local black community. Analyze key characters and their impact on the narrative's moral landscape.