Essay On Symbolism In To Kill A Mocking Bird

Symbolism Through Birds Throughout Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, the reader is faced with many themes, motifs, and symbols. The most iconic symbol used in the novel would have to the idea of birds. There are three major birds that are used to illustrate different characteristics of the people in the story. Mockingbirds and blue jays are the easiest to spot, as Lee creates dialog to introduce them. Atticus says, “Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit’em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird” (Lee 103). Miss Maudie even explains to Scout how her father’s claim is legitimate. The use of finches is more in the details of the narrative. The symbol of finches is used in Scout, Jem, and Atticus’ last name. Without much thought, it could be easily missed, but arguably finches are the most important of the three. Lee uses the symbols of mockingbirds, blue jays, and finches to

First, blue jays symbolize the antagonistic characters who do not rank high in class, and are the most prone to sin. Bob Ewell exemplifies this by creating false charges, living of the government, and not caring about morals. Then, there are mockingbirds. They embody positivity, looking for the best in everyone, and being pure. Boo Radley shows this idea by caring for others, allowing the kids to see him, and showing how people misjudge him. Lastly, there is the significant finches. They are harder to spot, but they show the idea of being more vulnerable to stigma on roles, classes, and pureness. Scout illustrates how someone so young is affected by the world around her and grow up to see the world around them differently because of it. The number of symbols in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is abundant, but ultimately the use of birds is the forefront of character