To Kill a Mockingbird Essay - Issues Which Are Still...

‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee explores several different issues which are still relevant in today’s society. Harper Lee uses conventions within the novel to convey these ideas. The three main issues Lee explores are; Importance of Moral Education, Prejudice and Bravery and Courage. Lee explores the theme of the Importance of Moral Education throughout the novel. This idea is still relevant in today’s society as we all face moral decisions which shape who we are. Harper Lee investigates this idea through the use of characterisation. Lee uses characterisation very effectively and particularly uses Atticus Finch and Calpurnia to portray this. Ever since Jem and Scout were at an early age Atticus would read to them and slowly over†¦show more content†¦Atticus speaks to Jem about the Tom Robinson case and says; â€Å"I don’t know (how they could convict Tom Robinson), but they did it. They’ve done it before and they did it tonight and they’ll do it again and when they do it – seems that only children weep†. This refers to how white people have more authority than the blacks. Tom Robinson was the perfect example of how innocent people can be injured or destroyed through contact with evil. A great life lesson was lear nt and racism could be eliminated if we all took heed of Scout’s simple but powerful quote towards the end of the novel â€Å"I think there’s just one kind of folks. Folks†. Another example of symbolism is Arthur â€Å"Boo† Radley. The town ridicules and disregards him from society due to his incapability to socialise outside of his home. He is portrayed a scary and dangerous individual and the children of Maycomb have been raised to fear him. If only Maycomb would take the time to see through Boo Radley’s perspective then they might not refer to him as a â€Å"malevolent phantom†. Ultimately Boo saves Jem and scout from Bob Ewell and proves to be the ultimate symbol of good. The lesson being told here is that people should not be so easily judged. Both examples clearly show the prejudice within Maycomb and how incorrectly the community portrays these individuals. Prejudice is still evident in today’s society, racism and social classes still apply to how some people