How Does Scout Stand In Their Shoes Symbolize In To Kill A Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, describes the adventures of siblings Scout and Jem Finch as they learn to mature and grow. The novel has countless examples of life-changing themes and lessons that can apply to society even years after publication. Two themes of the narrative are that courage means fighting for what is right, no matter the cost, and that the best way to understand someone is to stand in their shoes.

To Kill a Mockingbird exemplifies many themes, one of which is that courage means fighting for what is right no matter what the cost. Throughout the story, several characters—including Mrs. Dubose and Atticus Finch—exhibit genuine courage. It was clear that Mrs. Dubose fought her morphine addiction no matter what it took. After

Numerous times, like when Scout was arguing with Atticus, Atticus always speaks his wise words, like, "You never fully comprehend a person unless you consider things from his point of view" (39) which shows Atticus’s efforts to instill compassion and empathy in the children. Due to her eventual understanding of Boo Radley, Scout is a great illustration of the theme. Until Scout "stepped into his shoes" when walking Boo Radley home, she was unable to understand the true depth of Boo. She expressed her understanding clearly when she reiterated something similar to what her father had said, "One time he said you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them. Just standing on the Radley porch was enough" (374) showing she finally began to mature enough to understand Boo. As they walked home together, Scout truly started to empathize with and understand him, his situation, and the reality that he was exceedingly different from how the children had previously perceived

Atticus often provided excellent examples of the importance of having bravery and relentlessly stepping up for what one believes. When Atticus remained by Tom's cell through the hazards of the night, he showed courage. Atticus dared to be faithful in the face of the threatening mob and the possibility of harm or death, and his actions are something people could use today. The story showcases how courageous and resilient Atticus is as Scout, Jem, and Dill break into the jail, adding, "Atticus was sitting propped against the front door" (201) demonstrating how he persisted despite the risks or consequences. Atticus highlights the importance of having courage, and to do what is right, regardless of what society may think. It requesites bravery heed any convictions and do what is right, even in today's culture. Whatever ones beliefs, it is critical to imitate Mrs. Dubose and Atticus's exceptional examples to have courage. With courage, like the characters in the novel, unstoppable potential lies