Random Thoughts

I came across a less popular theme of the book represented in the characterization of Scout. Influence plays a big part in the city of Maycomb, in both the young and the old. In Chapter 9, Scout says, "'Aw, that’s a damn story'" (90), and later tells the readers, "'if Atticus discovered I had picked them up at school ... '" (90), which shows the influence of her peers on her actions and words. Cursing is definitely a negative thing that Scout learned from her schoolmates; her characteristic of easily being influenced will most likely play a notable role later in the plot, where her opinion of the Tom Robinson case could easily be manipulated.


Although, Scout bears a volatile sense of individuality and is a bit scrupulous. Her choice to "hang with the boys" - in that time very rare - and of her not conforming to society's expectations of her being a "lady" makes her a free soul. Their conversation goes, "'You want to grow up to be a lady, don't you?' / I said not particularly" (90), which shows Scout's opinion of being a lady. I strongly predict that Scout's easily being influenced and her strong sense of self will both play a huge role in the trial and rest of the novel.


Lee uses a slight comedic approach to her novel to lighten up the serious subjects that this story introduces. The not too comedic that it loses its significance, not too serious that it makes you want to stab yourself, perfect and unique combination of the two are what won this story the Pulitzer Prize.