How Does Lee Use Metaphors In To Kill A Mockingbird

One of the main purposes in life is to grow positively, individually and in society. However, with oppression and fear to move towards change, it requires a unique approach to address some issues. A rich demonstration of this is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. An old, children’s book serving no meaningful purpose is what it may seem, nonetheless, it is actually a novel that offers a unique outlook on all aspects of human life. Jem and Scout, the main characters, learn about equality, racism, and social class through court cases, tea parties and more. While the plot itself contributed to the many themes in the book, author’s craft held a major role in piecing together in the novel. In To Kill a Mockingbird, Lee includes a myriad of metaphors to contribute to themes of courage, inequality, and understanding the perspective of others and doing so, confronting society’s ideals.

Atticus uses a metaphor to describe Mrs. Dubose, a lady who died trying to detox herself from morphine to Jem. He said “I wanted you to see something about her- I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand” (Lee 115). Atticus attempts to refine Jem’s definition that courage is not just found in physical fighting, but rather in the idea that knowing the risk of an action, and pushing forward anyway. Lee broadens the window of opportunity for someone to be considered courageous. She’s fighting the stereotype that courage is only found in a man holding a gun. By including Jem into the scene, she points out that young boys tend to be the most fixed on this