MA ANGELA C.

PILLA Date Submitted: March 17, 2024

MAED ENGLISH

ENGLISH 207-Literary Criticism

Assignment #1

Assignment: Write your own structural analysis of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

Racism is still a big problem today, just like it was in the past. Why does it

happen? Mostly because people don't understand or accept the differences between

each other. Instead of seeing diversity as something special, they find it strange and

hard to accept. If we don't work to get rid of these negative beliefs, things could get

even worse.

This is what Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" is all about. Before I share what,

I think about the story, let me tell you a bit about the book itself. It was written in the

1930s and focuses on social injustice and racism. It also explores how people grow

morally and the complicated nature of humanity, especially in the Southern United

States during that time.

The first big problem I noticed in the book was racism. It's shown through a black

man named Tom Robinson who is accused of raping a white girl named Mayella Ewell.

Even though Atticus Finch finds lots of evidence proving Tom's innocence, he's still

found guilty. The author shows how unfair racism and prejudice are in the area. Even

when the truth comes out, it seems like the justice system doesn't see it because of

Robinson's skin color.

 In "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, there are some important lessons we

can learn. One big lesson is about understanding and empathy. The character Atticus

Finch shows us how important it is to see things from other people's perspectives. He

teaches his kids, Scout and Jem, to try to understand others, even if they're different.

Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of a crime, shows us

this lesson in action. He believes it's vital to understand others' struggles to make the

world fairer.

In "To Kill a Mockingbird," there are some big lessons we can learn. One

important part is when Atticus Finch defends Tom Robinson, a black man accused of a

crime he didn't commit. Despite clear evidence showing Tom's innocence, the jury still

convicts him because of his race. This shows how unfair racism is and why it's crucial to

fight against it.

Another key moment is when Atticus shoots a rabid dog in the street. This might

seem unrelated, but it's a symbol of courage and integrity. Atticus, usually quiet and

humble, shows bravery by doing what's right, even when it's difficult.

Lastly, when Scout walks Boo Radley home after he saves her and Jem from

danger, it's a powerful moment of empathy and understanding. Boo, who's

misunderstood by the community, is revealed to be a caring person. This teaches us the

importance of looking beyond appearances and treating others with kindness.

Overall, "To Kill a Mockingbird" teaches us about empathy, standing up against

injustice, and being brave in doing what's right. These lessons inspire us to be fair,

compassionate, and courageous in our own lives.

STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF “ TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD”

1. Introduction (Exposition):

• Introduces the setting: Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression.

• Introduces the main characters: Scout Finch, Jem Finch, Atticus Finch, and

other residents of Maycomb.

• Sets the stage for the central conflict: Atticus defending Tom Robinson, a

black man accused of raping a white woman.

2. Rising Action:

• Scout and Jem encounter various forms of prejudice and racism in Maycomb.

• Atticus faces backlash for defending Tom Robinson.

• Scout, Jem, and Dill become curious about Boo Radley, the mysterious

neighbor.

3. Climax:

• The trial of Tom Robinson takes place, where Atticus presents evidence to

prove Tom's innocence.

• Despite the evidence, Tom is convicted due to the racial prejudice of the jury.

4. Falling Action:

• Bob Ewell, the accuser, seeks revenge on Atticus and his family.

• Boo Radley saves Scout and Jem from Bob Ewell's attack, revealing himself

as a caring neighbor.

5. Resolution (Denouement):

• Scout gains a deeper understanding of empathy and the complexities of

human nature.

• The story concludes with Scout walking Boo Radley back to his home and

seeing the world from his perspective.