To Kill a Mockingbird Comprehensive Study Guide

Scout (Jean Louise Finch)

The protagonist and narrator of To Kill a Mockingbird who experiences events as a child and reflects back as an adult.

Atticus Finch

Scout and Jem's father, a respected Maycomb attorney appointed to defend Tom Robinson.

Arthur "Boo" Radley

The mysterious town recluse rumored to be a monster, who secretly displays acts of kindness toward Scout and Jem.

Tom Robinson

The Black man falsely accused of a crime, defended by Atticus Finch in court.

Mockingbird Symbolism

Represents pure innocence and gentle individuals who cause no harm to the world, such as Tom Robinson and Boo Radley.

Setting of To Kill a Mockingbird

Maycomb, Alabama during the 1930s Great Depression under Jim Crow segregation laws.

Mrs. Dubose's Bravery

Atticus views her as the bravest person because she strove to break her morphine addiction and die free of it despite the extreme pain.

Indirect Characterization

Revealing a character's traits through their actions, thoughts, or speech rather than explicit direct commentary.

The Scottsboro Boys Trial

The real-life historical trial that directly inspired the narrative and legal trial in To Kill a Mockingbird.

The Radley Knothole

A hiding spot in an oak tree where Boo Radley leaves small gifts, like chewing gum, to communicate with Jem and Scout.

Scout (Jean Louise Finch)

The protagonist and narrator of To Kill a Mockingbird, experiencing events as a young child while reflecting back as an adult.

Atticus Finch

Scout and Jem's father; a respected attorney in Maycomb appointed to defend Tom Robinson.

Jem (Jeremy Atticus Finch)

Scout's older brother who undergoes significant maturation throughout the narrative.

Arthur "Boo" Radley

The mysterious town recluse who is rumored to be a monster but secretly displays acts of kindness.

Tom Robinson

The Black man accused of a crime whom Atticus defends in court.

Symbolism of the Mockingbird

Represents pure innocence and gentle individuals who cause no harm to the world.

Setting

Maycomb, Alabama in the 1930s during the Great Depression under Jim Crow laws.

Atticus's Definition of Bravery

Striving for what is right even when knowing you are licked before you begin, as demonstrated by Mrs. Dubose.