Monday, July 30, 2012

Journal Entries


 Sample Questions:

  • The mockingbird is a reoccurring symbol throughout the story. What does the Mockingbird represent? What two characters are most closely linked to a mockingbird? Be sure to give specific examples.

  • The novel takes place during the Great Depression. How do class divisions and family quarrels highlight racial tensions in Maycomb?

  • Atticus believes that to understand life from someone else's perspective, we must "walk in his or her shoes." From what other perspectives does Scout see her fellow townspeople? How does this help her understand life in Maycomb?

  • What elements of this novel did you find funny, memorable, or inspiring? Are there any characters whose beliefs or actions impressed or surprised you? Did any events lead you to revisit childhood memories or see them in a new light?

  • The mockingbird is a reoccurring symbol throughout the story. What does the Mockingbird represent? What two characters are most closely linked to a mockingbird? Be sure to give specific examples.

  • The novel takes place during the Great Depression. How do class divisions and family quarrels highlight racial tensions in Maycomb?

  • Atticus believes that to understand life from someone else's perspective, we must "walk in his or her shoes." From what other perspectives does Scout see her fellow townspeople? How does this help her understand life in Maycomb?

  • What elements of this novel did you find funny, memorable, or inspiring? Are there any characters whose beliefs or actions impressed or surprised you? Did any events lead you to revisit childhood memories or see them in a new light?

Vocabulary

Chapter 1:

Word (part of speech): definition
Sentence from the book (page #)

Example:
assuaged (verb): to lessen or to calm.
Jem's fears about being able to play football were assuaged (page 8). 

Themes & Symbolism

THEMES:
  • Racial Injustice
  • Social Class
  • Gender Roles
  • Loss of Innocence
  • Good vs. Evil
  • Moral Education


SYMBOLISM:
  • Mockingbird
  • Boo Radley

General Information

Setting:
  • Maycomb, Alabama 
  • Great Depression (1930's)
Genre:
  • Southern Gothic
  • Coming-of-Age story
Characters:
  • Atticus  Finch
  • Scout Finch
  • Jem Finch
  • Dill Harris
  • Calpurnia
  • Boo Radley
  • Miss Maudie
  • Aunt Alexandra
  • Bob Ewell 
  • Mayella Ewell 
  • Tom Robinson