Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Is Boo Radley considered a "mockingbird"?

Yes. Boo Radley would be considered a symbolic mockingbird because he deals with cruelty even though he is an innocent character who helps others and does not harm anyone. In Chapter 10, Atticus tells his children it is a sin to kill a mockingbird, and Miss Maudie elaborates by saying that mockingbirds do nothing but sing their hearts out for people to enjoy their music, which is why it is considered a sin to kill one. Metaphorically, mockingbirds represent any innocent beings who do not harm or bother anyone. Throughout the novel, Boo keeps to himself, gives gifts to the children, and even saves their lives at the end of the novel. In Chapter 30, Sheriff Tate comments to Atticus that he refuses to tell the community about Boo's heroics because it would bring unwanted attention to Boo. Scout understands Sheriff Tate's comment and compares telling the community about Boo to shooting a mockingbird. She realizes Boo is a symbolic mockingbird and knows excess attention would harm him, which is similar to shooting a mockingbird.

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