| Below is the abstract of a graduate thesis that dealt partially with an aspect of TKAMB that we have yet to discuss: Atticus as a single parent. As you move into part two of the novel this issue will come more into the forefront of the action. Read the abstract below and comment. | ||
Themes such as racial identity and self-exploration are usually discussed in Zora Neale Hurston'sTheir Eves Were Watching God and Harper Lee'sTo Kill a Mockingbird. Therefore, the less typical aspect found within the characters of the novel's single parents—Nanny and Atticus—form an unusual and representative pair to study. Through a critical analysis of these characters and the novels, the hopes of what any effective parent desires will be shown, i.e. a better life for their offspring and the will to do whatever it takes to ensure that. Against very different American backdrops, the black former slave and the white male attorney raise their children single-handedly during the Depression of the 1930s. They decide what values they want to instill in their children. These single parents are fictional characters, but their childrearing efforts and techniques can speak to a new generation of single parents everywhere.
204 comments:
1 – 200 of 204 Newer› Newest»Both parents are doing a fantastic job. Calpurnia seems to function as the one to make sure that Jem and Scout don't get hurt or do something stupid. Atticus takes the role of the moral advisor of the kids, telling them not to react irrationally to the name-calling of him, not to treat black people as if they're less than human,and not to bother Boo Radley
i think that they are doing well too but they should be more involved with there children and should maybe discipline them more instead of just yelling at them and leaving it at that
I agree with Jack. The parents are doing as well as they can. Not only do the parents have to create the income, but they have to be around for their kids. With this being said i think that Atticus is doing fine. Also Calpurnia is helping with the disciplining.
Atticus is doing a great job, and he tries to instill in his children honesty, etiquette, and moral values, but is preoccupied by the fact that he is a hard-working single father who has two children. He works a complicated job that shapes his life, and affects his children as well. I think Calpurnia is doing a good job in the caretaker role, but can not and does not offer the kind of guidance and example Scout needs, but does not want, which Aunt Alexandra tries to step in and do, but ultimately fails in her overall mission, although has some other effects. Scout looks up to Jem, but the gender and age difference bars most connections later on. Also, I think Scout gets much of her tomboyness from her following of Jem.
I think that by letting them run around the neighborhood, Calpurnia and Atticus are teaching them self-reliance and responsibility. Also, they're probably learning a great deal of lessons through experienc
I agree with Evan because under the circumstances that Atticus is under he is doing a great job. He has to go to work all day and come home still have enough energy to play and watch his kids. He is the parent that does a lot of the discipline and that makes it hard for him to also play with his kids. Calpurnia is doing a good job as a care taker but she doesn't have the motherly qualities. She cares for them and does the everyday things a normal mother would but she isn' t seen as a mother to the kids. That makes her have some authority but not enough for the kids to love her. The other parts of the family attempt to discipline the kids but they do not respect them like they respect Atticus.
I agree with evan. I think Atticus does a great job as a single parent. Calpurnia is also helpful in playing a mother role. It seems to be hard though for Atticus to be a good father because he is busy with his rape case. He offers good moral advice and is helpful to scout when she needs some guidance in her life but he cannot help with everything. Neither can Calpurnia who takes the mother role for a bit until aunt alexandra shows up. Cal cooks, cleans, and gives advice on how to be a lady to scout. When Alexandra shows up she takes the mother role and tries to turn Scout into a nice lady. But overall scout always seems to follow what Jem says and she listens most to him
I think they both do a good job. Atticus tries to be really honest. He was upset that Uncle Jack didnt tell Scout the truth when she asked him a question, and said that you have to be straight with kids. This is a good lesson because kids appreciate it when their parents tell them the real answer to what they ask, instead of lying or just not answering. Also, he tries really hard to be a good role model and has high moral standards. He wanted to be Tom's lawyer becaus he felt that if he didnt at least try then his kids shouldnt have to listen to him. He wants to give everyone a chance. Thats really important for a parent to do, especially because kids dont like to do what their parents tell them all the time.At least if the parent does it also then the child doesnt feel like their parent is being unfair or being a hypocrite.
Calpurnia also is a good parent. She shows how much she cares about them when she takes them to her church. It shows that they really are like her children because if not then she wouldnt take them to her church. Some people didnt want two white kids there, but Cal still took them. Then everyone else was nice and welcoming. This shows the kids that all types of people are good and it doesn't matter what they look like, which is especially important in a racist time.
In a way everybody is acting like a parent. Miss Maudie gives advice, knowledge, cares for, and provides an example for Scout, Atticus and Calpurnia act as parent and moral guides. Uncle Jack also acts as an example of a nice, moralistic person. The community guides them, and aspects such as the Radleys and introduces new parts of society in the church promote growth, Even interaction with Mrs. Dubose helps the children develop manners and get more exposure to other personalities.
I think they're both involved and helping the kids for the better. Though Calpurnia is there much more often, Atticus is still helping the kids. He helps Jem by making sure he stays calm and polite. Calpurnia helps Jem by keeping an eye on him though she thinks he's a good kid and wouldn't do anything bad. Atticus helps Scout by letting her go her own way but making sure she doesn't fight or go out of line and makes sure she stays levelheaded, especially when it's about Atticus. He doesn't want her to fight and get in trouble because of him. Calpurnia makes sure Scout doesn't do anything bad and makes sure she's nice to everyone and treats everyone right and fair.
Going a little off-topic, I think Aunt Alexandra is also there to make sure Scout acts lady-like and stops acting like a "tom boy".
I agree that the entire community acts as parents. I think Atticus is aware of this and does things such as make Jem read to Mrs. Dubose because he knows he can learn from the people in the neighborhood. This would also explain why he lets them roam the town.
i think Atticus is doing fine, he is maintaining his job and trying his best to be around the kids. Calpurnia is doing her best too. she tries her best to care for the kids and discipline them.
i agree with elizabeth when she said that people think Jem is a good kid because he thinks about what he does before he does something bad. but scout like we read in the book acts more like a guy when she is fighting with guys when they talk about her family or anyone she is close to. i think that if people want scout to start acting more like a girl they should show her instead of thinking that she is just going to know how to. i think also that scout shouldn't have to act more like a girl because she has lived with two guys and has not had a mom in her life or a women that is willing or has time to show her how to be a lady
i agree with elizabeth because Atticus and Calpurnia only do best for Scout and Jem. Atticus teaches Jem manners and how to behave and Calpurnia teaches Scout how to behave and act polite. Atticus teaches Scout to make decisions by herself. And Calpurnia trys to convince Jem that he is a good person not a bad one. Atticus and Calpurnia both wants best for Scout and Jem and there both doing a good job. They both show discipline towards the kids to. And i also believe that Aunt Alexandra is doing wrong because she's trying to get Scout to be a girly girl, but if she wants to be a tom- boy then she should be able too.
i agree with nikki because she is write they were both good and its good to give your kids space and if you are to close with ur kids they wont want to be around and they will try to be bad.they also if they dont get to much attention then they will be on your bad side so they get that attention they want
i agree with ben because the community is acting like parents in a way. they give discipline toward the children. and they choose what is best for the kids. but at the same time curtain adults want the best for curtain kids.like some communities this one acts like a family. because the adults do try to get the best for the children.
i agree with Maddy because she said that jem and scout are both good kids and that there parent is doing a good job for being a single dad and also having a job. i think that there dad is giving them a good amount of space and a good amount of attention. so that they dont become bad kids and have there own responsablitiy on what and how they do things
i agree with kate because maybe sometimes depending on the actions that jem and scout do that they could show a little more discipline. maybe further in the book scout or jem could do something bad or badish and atticus or calpurnia could'nt give them much discipline because there maybe they wont be to use to it or they wont know whats bad or good. or maybe not.
I think Atticus is mainly letting them develop on their own, and just making sure they don't become immoral, but beyond that, letting them take their own path, since he does not seem to do much to them other them tell them what is right and wrong.
Calpurnia and Atiicus have good jobs. Atticus is a lawyer and Calpurnia is a cook.
Parenting in this story is very important. Atticus is lectured because his daughter does not have proper etiquette. He never forced her to wear frilly dresses or brush out her hair. He let her be who she wanted to be. Even through all the other girls in Maycomb County may appear the same, he lets Scout go as she wants. Aunt Alexandra tries to influence her not to dress that way. "We decided that it would be best for you to have some feminine influence. It won't be many years, Jean Louise, before you become interested in clothes and boys-"(page 170) She is more of a normal mother of Maycomb. If Scout had a mother when growing up she probably would dress better. I think that he is doing a fine job as a parent, though his daughter may not appeal to others of Maycomb, he is giving her all she needs for a good life style. She has the house, food, water, and even toys to play with. Atticus seems to be the type to through himself out there and not be afraid of what is coming. For example, how he is defending a "nigger" in the trial, for it caused the town an outburst. Calpurnia is basically the mother in this household. She cooks the food, and cares for the children along with Atticus. She brought them to church & she wants them to come to her house."With that, Calpurnia led us to the church door where we were greeted by Reverend Sykes, who led us to the front pew."(page 159) She brings them places on occasion, also she watches out for them. She never approves of Scouts swearing, she reprimands her for that. For they both do about an equal job as for parenting. Calpurnia & Atticus are not the perfect parents, but they're providing enough.
I agree with Evan and Ben, most of the adults in Maycomb act as parents to Scout and Jem. The kids know how to behave in front of each person on the street. They also know that if they misbehave the neighbors or Calpurnia will tell Atticus. Everyone in the town knows Atticus and they know that Jem and Scout are Atticus's kids. By talking with many of the adults around town Jem and Scout learn. For example, Atticus is not the one who makes Jem read to Mrs. Dubose, she makes him read as a punishment. Since Atticus trusts that people won't hesitate to tell him if his children are bad, he lets them do pretty much whatever they want.
I agree with what zack is saying. The adults in the town all seem like they watch over the kids at all time. With Atticus out and working someone needs to watch when the kids go out to explore. Each neighbor gives feedback to Atticus on how the kids are doing like when mrs. dubose tell Atticus what Jem did. Also each of the neighbors give some advice to Scout and Jem when they want it. In all the entire town acts like parents to the kids
I think that Atticus is doing a great job so far. He wants his kids to be kind and polite, and he is instilling moral values to them. Even though he is working he is able to continuously check in with the kids and get up to speed with what they are doing. Now, when things start to get tough for the kids with the whole trial, he decided to bring in their aunt to help out for a little bit. I think that this shows that he wants his kids to have someone to look up to, and it shows that he realizes that he understands that this is going to be a tough time for the kids, and that he will be busy, so he wants someone to be there to watch them. Calpurnia is also doing a great job parenting the kids. She is more of the disciplinary in the household, but the children still love her and look up to her. On page 116 it says, "What bothers me is that she and Jem will have to absorb some ugly things pretty soon." This quote was said by Atticus. I believe that this shows his love and compassion for his children because he honestly does not want them to be affected by the trial and i think that he is going to do his best to keep them away from any mean or nasty comments from others.
I agree with Nikki that Atticus is right by feeling that if he doesn't defend Tom then his kids shouldnt listen to him. By defending this man Atticus wants to show his kids that doing the right thing may be hard, but in the end you will be better respected because you kept your head, sucked it up and did what was put in front of you.
I agree with what Sarah said about Calpurnia.
I think that Miss Maude goes beyond caring about Scout and giving her advice. She becomes Scout’s friend. Early in the book, on page 59, Scout states her opinions about Miss Maude “But while no one with a grain of sense trusted Miss Stephanie, Jem and I had considerable faith in Miss Maude. She had never told on us, had never played cat-and-mouse with us, she was not at all interested in our private lives. She was our friend.” Scout and Jem respect Miss Maude, and Miss Maude respects them. That is what helps to create their friendship.
I also agree with the people who were commenting about how some of the neighborhood adults serve as parenting figures. As I stated before, I agree about Miss Maude and Calpurnia.
Atticus is also a parent who works in interesting ways. With kindness and caring, he is wise in his own way about parenting Scout and Jem. He is not overly strict, but he still allows force when necessary- not necessarily by demanding, but by suggesting. (Such as when Jem had to read to Mrs. Dubose)
What do you think?
I agree with Evan and Ben, the neighbors all seem like parents. I would also add that they seem like other adult members of a family Miss Maudie especially seems like a grandmother that spoils you. Miss Stephanie is like that crazy aunt that we all have. Mrs. Dubose is probably (at least in parenting style) the polar opposite of Atticus.
I also think that Atticus helps the kids to behave and treat other people the best, even if they don't deserve it. For instance, even though Mrs. Dubose, kids at school, and the family's relatives aren't the most nice people by treating Atticus badly for doing something he thinks is right. He also makes sure the kids don't bother the Radley's and make sure they don't in any way disrespect someone. He just keeps an eye out for them to make sure they're as polite as can be to everyone in the community. He's nice to the kids and let them grow up to be who they want to be and how they want to live.
I think both Atticus and Calpurnia are doing a great job in raising Jem and Scout. For Jem I think it is important for him to have a father figure. Jem can learn valuable skills from Atticus like working hard to et something you want or not to let anyone tear you down no matter what you are doing. Atticus can teach both those skills to both of his children but Jem needs them more because he is going to have a family of his own one day and those are great skills to be a successful person. Atticus can teach Scout thing but Calpurnia can teach her more. Like how to act like a proper lady and how to dress like one to.Calpurnia and Atticus both do a great job in raising Jem and Scout but they both do it in different ways for both child.
i agree with Elizabeth c. she said that the neighbors should not be treating Atticus for taking a case that he believes in. I also agree with everyone who is saying that the neighbors of Jem and Scout are also in a way like parents to them. Mrs. Dobuse taught the kids to be respectful and to listen to what older people have to say to them
I think Scout is being pressured to be a lady while she does not want to be, and the surrounding conflicts make the story very complicated, and teaching Scout to be a lady difficult. She has grown up without a mother, looking to her older brother Jem as a role model, hence the tomboyishness, and does not want to change her ways now.
Atticus is a successful single parent. He has educated his children well, like reading. He lets them be who they want to be. For instance, Scout is not forced to be feminine. Calpurnia fills the role as a mother by watching out for them. Aunt Alexandra starts to take over Scout's freedom by making her more feminine. This is an example of bad "parenting".
I feel that many people have pointed out things that i never would have thought of. I do think that each person in the neighborhood plays a part of a giant family. I do feel though that Miss Maudie could also be considered the cool aunt. I feel this way because Scout is really close with her and just opens up and talks to her just like some people talk to their aunts. I also agree that the neighbors should not be treating Atticus the way they are about taking the case, but at the same time, this story takes place in a time when their is a lot of racial tension so it really isn't surprising that they are acting this way.
I agree with Evan that Aunt Alexandra has failed as a maternal figure in Scout's life. Alexandra does not seem to make an effort to understand Scout better. A lot of the time, Alexandra simply criticizes Scout and is forceful. She should not expect someone to change their nature in a short time. Alexandra needs to find a new approach if she hopes to convert Scout into a young lady.
I believe that Miss Maudie is a better maternal figure for Scout than Alexandra. Miss Maudie gets her hands dirty, one of the things Alexandra criticizes Scout about, by gardening. She also listens to Scout and gives her advice and has already helped her mature on the subject of Arthur Radley (pages 57-61). Miss Maudie and Scout have more in common and therefore, Miss Maudie would have more of a chance of turning Scout into a lady.
I feel that Atticus is doing a good job raising Scout and Jem. I think that Atticus is making the right decision about not forcing Scout to be more "girly." I agree with the way he is raising Scout and Jem. I think that he is setting a good example for them. I think that both Scout and Jem look up to Atticus, as most kids look up to their parents, and they will follow his good example. Some kids aren't as fortunate as them, their parents might have drinking problems or other problems that set a bad example. I think that Atticus does the best he can, being a single parent, and that the kids have a good role model to look up to. I like how even though other people are trying to tell Atticus he is raising his kids wrong, such as Aunt Alexandra, Atticus keeps doing what he feels is the best way to raise his children. I think that the kids are very fortunate to have him as their father, and that the other characters in the novel don't think about how it could be much worse. I think that Atticus is doing a good job raising Scout and Jem.
I agree with everyone who said that the neighborohood is like a family. The kids can walk around because they do watch out for the kids. I disagree with Sarah when she says that they are providing enough. Atticus is proividing more than enough. The have a house, a cook, food, and other things that most peo0ple do not have. Therefore they do not only have enough, but they have plenty to go around. and also, people in maycomb are either wealthy or poor. Therefore they are wealthy because they are not poor
I mostly agree with what Abby just said. However, i dont agree with the statement that "all people in Maycomb are either rich or poor." There are some average people as well. While yes, Atticus provides more than what is needed, im still not sold on the statement that the Finch's are rich. Also, take the negros at the church, while they arent "poor" they still have a hard time scraping up $10 for the Robinson family. If they were poor, Cal wouldve had Jem and Scout give their own money as opposed to her money
In the book, Atticus said they are poor. They're just higher than the blacks, Cunninghams, and the Ewells. They have more money, but I don't think they are considered rich. I think they're an average family, money wise.
I agree. I think, at least in the caring aspect, Atticus is doing a great job. He is providing his children with a childhood free of real worries, and is providing them with everything they could ask for, without pampering them. However, and in this aspect no blame can be put on Atticus, Scout lacks a prominent feminine figure in her life, and as a result is very tomboyish. I think he is doing a respectable job, and the best he can.
I think that both Calpurnia and Attics are doing a great job parenting. This is because Atticus shows the kids honesty, to treat everyone equalily even if they are black or not, he tells Scout to stay out of fights and he is a very trustful and worthy of a parent. Calpurnia is also doing a wonderful job parenting because she teaches the kids whats right from wrong and is a good house hold keeper. Aunt alexandra is a bad parent to me,this is because she is trying to change Scout's personality. By teaching her to be more feminine. And her mission did fail on that.
I think that Atticus and Calpurnia are both good parents, but Aunt Alexandra is not. She bosses Scout and Calpurnia around. She does not let Scout be a "Tomboy." I think that Atticus is worried about Aunt Alexandra being in charge of Scout because she does not really understand her. Calpurnia does a better job at making Scout act more lady like because she cares about her more and does not boss her around.
In this time in history single parents were frowned upon and they were uncommon. I think Harper Lee had made Atticus a single parent for the novel another reason to make the family outcast. Besides the fact that Atticus was also defending and African American. Harper Lee also has an outside party, Aunt Alexandra "whip Atticus into shape" and becomes Scout and Jems mother figure, like Zack G said. Aunt Alexandra also doesn't like Calpurnia's role in Scout and Jem's life. "Alexandra, Calpurnia is not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise , but I couldn't have gotten on without her through these years" In this quote Atticus is defending Calpurnia's role in the household because he has been through a lot with her.
I believe that Aunt Alexandra is having a negative impact on Jem and Scout's childhoods. She is not letting Atticus parent them the way he has been even though it has worked fine. She also tries to discourage the family from talking to Calpurnia, who is an important part of the family.
I would agree with Christen that single parents were frowned upon during that time. The author does a great job of showing how one parent can do just as good of a job as two could. The reader is able to respect Atticus for doing what he thinks is right and not doing what everyone else thinks (for example: the trial). Calpurnia is also a very significant role model in the book because it makes Jem and Scout realize that what the people in Maycomb say about black people is false.
Also, the fact that Atticus does not pressure Scout into becoming a "lady" shows that he does not think outer appearance is nearly as important as how polite and respectful someone is. The way that Atticus deals with situations is a great role model for Jem and Scout because he makes the right decisions and not the selfish ones.
I also agree with Flubba Chubba Abby. Scout is trusted and loved in her family. Atticus gives her responsibilities and trusts her with them. Aunt Alexandra doesn't get or know Scout enough to trust or like her. I presume later in the novel Aunt Alexandra will befriend or at least trust Jem and Scout and they will get along.
Oh and also I have a question about the book.
I didn't get the whole Dill situation?
Why did he run away?
Did his parent abuse him or did they just neglect him?
Or was it all lies?
Answer to flabs: Dill thought that his family didn't enjoy his presence and wasn't use to going off by himself. He got everything that he wanted but he didn't have anyone to be with. He ran away to be with Jem and Scout because when he is with them, they pay attention.
I would agree with Abby C. Atticus is proving that you don't need to have a spouse to raise children the proper way. Though Christen brings up a good point about single parents being frowned upon, I don't think that this is how people feel about Atticus, only because his wife died. I too think that Atticus is doing a good job raising his children and like any parent, he has his flaws. He teaches them responsibility (when he made Jem read to Mrs. Dubose), he teaches them respect (when Scout says "I wasn't asking you" to Aunt Alexandra, he made her apologize. Most importantly, he teaches them to hold their head up high. With Atticus's new case starting up, the children have received comments about their dad being a "nigger-lover". Though most people would be insulted by this at the time, Atticus teaches them to stay strong and not focus on what other people think.
Oh okay thank you for the spectacular clarification dear.Dill had a family and they died and so he had a foster family and he ran away from them? Remember his "Dad" who worked on the train? Where did he go?
I agree with Chrissy(her earlier comment). Harper Lee is putting in characters that have conflicting views to make the story more interesting.
Atticus is seen as himself and not as a stereotypical southern father in that era. The fact that Scout and Jem do not have a mother influences this, as well. It is not only the fact that Scout does not have a mother (as the reason as to why Scout does not want to be a lady) but also because that is who Scout is as a person.
Harper Lee crafts the main characters to be different than the views of the other, lesser characters in the book. An example would be Atticus and Aunt Alexandra. “It was a sad thing that my father had neglected to tell me about the Finch Family…” (pg. 176) What do you think?
I would disagree with Jillian that Scout isn't a lady because of her not having a mother. I think that Calpurnia represents as much of a mother figure as a real one and Scout still lacks wanting to be what is considered a "lady". (page 156) "She made me wear a petticoat and she wrapped a pink sash tightly around my waist."
(page 157) calpurnia: "I don't want anybody sayin' I don't look after my children."
I think that Atticus is doing the best he can with what he has. He is a single parent left to care for two children. Luckily he does have Calpurnia to help influence the children to be better, but as we all know, Scout and Jem can be difficult, to say the least. The fact that she does not have a mother doesn't effect Scout all that much. Some people are naturally born rebellious. And its not like she doesn't have a prominent female character present in her life, because Calpurnia is over at her house quite a lot.
I agree with Dan. Even though Atticus is a a single parent, who has to work most of the time, he is still doing a good job. He tries to be there for his children, he teaches Scout not to fight with kids at school. When Scout came home and told Atticus about Cecil, he taught her to just ignore sit because they were wrong. Atticus also taught Scout how to read. He also understands that Jem is growing older and he needs more space, while Jem is going through this phase, Atticus tells Scout to leave Jem alone and respect his space.
Even though Cal is not Scout and Jem's mother, she still acts like one. She took them to church, she feeds them, and even bathes them. I think that it is good that Cal is around because Atticus is out more often because of the rape case.
Aunt Alexandra may not seem like the nicest woman, but she eis trying to teach Scout to be a lady, which a mother would have taught her daughter back then.
I agree with everyone who is saying that the whole neighborhood is acting like parents because they all watch over the kids.
I agree with Kasey on everything except one thing. I know that Aunt Alexandra is a nice lady and is trying but it seems like she does things to make Scout upset. For example when Scout asked Atticus if she could go visit Cal Aunt Alexandra answered right away and said no. Why whould she do that? Scout was first of all asking Atticus not her. So instead of explaning to Scout why she couldnt in a nice way, Alexandra says it in the rudest way possible.
I agree with Alex. Parents want their children to know right from wrong, but Atticus brings it to a whole new level. He is defending an African American, even though he knows he will not win. It just shows he wants best for his children, he teaches them what to do and how to act, but instead of just saying it he also does it. Some parents are hypocrites, they tell their children not to do something, but then they go and do it. Atticus does not, he wants his children not to be racist, so he is not. He decided that teaching his children right from wrong and standing up for what he believes in is more important then getting made fun of or getting yelled at by a mob of people.
To what Victoria said, I think that Aunt Alexandra wants Scout to be more lady like, I do not think that she wants to upset her. Along the way, she does make Scout upset, but that's not her goal. Her goal is to make Scout be a lady. I think that she does not like Cal because of Cal's race and because Alexandra does not think that Cal is doing a good job of making Scout act like a lady. Some people don't think before they act, so maybe that's what Alexandra was doing. She did not approve of Cal, so she screamed out and told Scout "no". That's just my opinon, I might be wrong though.
I agree with Alex to an extent. Atticus is a very brave man for standing up for Tom Robinson, but as Alex said, he puts himself in danger. When he does this, he aslo put his kids in danger too. Atticus is brave for standing up for the African-American race, but by putting his kids in danger and having them being subjects to horrible things isn't want a parent always wants for their kid. For the most part though, he does do a very good job for a single parent. It's tough for Atticus especially when he tries to raise Scout. Having other people around him criticize him all the time, it's hard, because he doesn't always understand.
I thinks Calpurnia is doing her job well too. It's hard for her to step up as a mother, being a nanny and all. She did do the right thing by taking them to church when Atticus was away, and it showed that she can sometimes step up as a mother. Also, when Jem starts to go through "changes" Scout retreats to Cal a lot, which makes her seem like a mother. If Calpurnia wasn't there, it would be even more difficult for Atticus as it is.
I agree with you Kasey and no your not wrong at all and like I said I think she is trying. I do believe she is trying to make Scout more lady like im just saying that Alexandra has two ways do things nicely or not. Im just trying to clarify that she always says things to Scout the wrong way.
To what Victoria said...Aunt Alexandra is definatly not teaching Scout the correct way to be a lady. She is pushing Scout to hard and she is trying to make Scout change way to fast. Scout never really liked Aunt Alexandra in the first place, so I think that Alexandra needs to warm up to Scout before she can try to change her. Scout sees Alexandra as her mean aunt, but all Alexandra is trying to do is teach Scout how to be a lady. On page 39 Atticus says, "...You never really understand a person until you consider things from their point of veiw-until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." Even though Atticus was not talking about Alexandra when he said this to Scout, I think it still pertains to Alexandra and Scout. I think that they need to see things from eachothers point of veiw, they will not understand eachother or come to an agreement until they do this.
I disagree with Kasey. Aunt Alexandra doesn't understand Scout and is correcting her the best way she can. She doesn't agree the way Scout is acting so Aunt Alexandra probably grew up that way and doesn't know better. Aunt Alexandra isn't cruel in anyway. Its just the book is in Scout's point of view.
To Chrissy, I'm not saying that Aunt Alexandra understands Scout, I am saying that she will not understand cout until she see things from her point of veiw. I'm not saying that the aunt is cruel, I said that Aunt Alexandra thinks she is being helpful, but Scout thinks she's just her mean aunt.
The last sentence in the that paragraph is "their childrearing efforts and techniques can speak to a new generation of single parents everywhere." I think the author is referring to Atticus and how well he takes care of his children. It was not as common to be a single parent back then, especially a father, as it is now. Back then, neighbors were closer to each other and helped each other out, like some of Atticus' neighbors. Atticus is not always there for his kids and that is where Culpernia and the neighbors come in. THis sets a good example.
I agree with Drew. In TKAMB, the neighbors have a clear influence on the children. Miss Maudie especially. She spends a lot of time with Scout, gives her advice, and teaches her new things. Also, being a single parent was rather uncommon back then, or at least, not as common as it is nowadays. But I think that some of the neighbors have a bad influence on the children. On of those people being Boo Radley. Its not that he does anything wrong, but he makes the children extremely curios and they even break rules to try and see this mysterious man.
Abby (from earlier) I agree with you. I think that Scout is who she wants to be. Her environment does have an impact on that, but she does have a mother-like person, Calpurnia.
Dan, I agree with your idea that the neighbors have an influence on Jem and Scout. I disagree about Boo Radley being a bad influence. Boo Radley is an odd man who does not want to socialize and he may be crazy, but it is not his fault that the children are interested in him. It is their decision to be curious.
Other neighbors also influence in both good and bad ways. Mrs. Dubose influenced them in being a pain, but she also showed Jem and Scout what bravery can mean. Atticus said that “she said she meant to break herself of it (Mrs. Dubose’s addiction) before she died, and that’s what she did.” (pg. 148)
What do you think?
Being a single parent doesn't seem too hard when it comes to Atticus. He kind of just lets the kids run freely to do whatever they want but always has a close eye on them. To me, it seems like an easy job for Atticus especially when he has Calpurnia to back him up. Calpurnia seems like a great mother-like character, watching over the kids, being with them at times such as in church, inviting Scout over to her house and always being there for them in any situation. Aunt Alexandra, on the other hand, I wouldn't consider to be a mother-like character. I'm agreeing with Victoria who's saying although Alexandra is nice-ish, she is not teaching Scout the correct ways to be lady-like. She basically commands her to be a lady but not teaching her the proper ways. I also think the reason Atticus had Alexandra stay is because the children's ways are getting out of hand and getting older and he needs help as a single parent even though Atticus is a great father, always honest with the children and they trust him with everything. Alexandra is pretty straight-forward with what she says too. If she wants the children to do something or to stop doing something, she just speaks her mind and I have the feeling Jem and Scout are intimidated by her.
Atticus would do anything for them and wants them to grow up doing as they please so earn the respect of Jem and Scout.
Yes Kasey, I DO agree that she is not a mean aunt. I'm just saying that she can be a little bit more respectful to Scout since she is still a little girl and she shouldn't tell her to change her personality.
I agree with where Abby Canova said that Atticus handles his parenting correctly because he thinks the outer appearance is half as important as the qualities of the person. Scout is closer to respectful, than a lady but Atticus lets Scout be who she wants to be, but he disciplines her for wrong doings. Also Dan W said that the neighbors have a strong influence on the children. I disagree. Miss Maudie might, but Mrs. Dubois (when she was alive)made the children angry. For they never actually took in what they were saying and considered it. The Radley's may be exciting for the kids but he doesn't do anything that rubs off on the kids. I don't find the neighbors much help. They are not even close to being parental in this situation. About Aunt Alexandra, Chrissy & Kasey talked about her. I think that she does not understand Scout, for she only disciplines her, its not hurting her. I don't like her but i agree with Christen. Aunty Alexandra probably grew up that way, and maybe is a little embarrassed with Scouts appearance, she is just trying to help.
I agree with Caroline G, because its true. Atticus may let his kids run wild but he never lets anything bad happen. He keeps then under good care & watch. With the Calpurnia part, he definitely has it easy there because he seems to only struggle rarely with the kids & if he does she is there to help out. The only thing I can truly see Atticus, maybe messing up on is how Scout is a bit un-lady like. To be honest though, that is not such a terrible thing, she may be different but she is still a good kid.
I believe that Atticus is doing a good job raising jem and Scout. The children's mother died when they were very young so they have pretty much always been raised by a single parent. Calpurnia is almost like a mother to them because of the way she contributes to their house and because she is loyal to Atticus and the kids. The kids have almost felt like they were not being raised by a single parent because of how motherly Calpurnia is.On page 183, Atticus said "...she's never let them get away with anything, she's never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cals are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her." This goes to show how well both Atticus and Cal are doing with their parental skills.
I think Aunt Alexandra wants Scout to be more like her. I think she wants Scout's family to keep their reputations for the Finch family in respectable condition. Many people are constantly regarding that Atticus is defending a black person in a case. He knows that this is unfair for the rest of the family, but he wants them to know what's right and that he's trying to set an example for everyone. I agree with Sarah because he lets them do what they want sometimes, but he always makes sure they stay respectful. He makes sure they treat everyone fair and the best they can.
I believe that Aunt Alexandra is getting in the way of the way Atticus wants his kids to grow up. Atticus is teaching his kids to not be against blacks in thee racist atmosphere that they live in. On page 255, Atticus tells Jem, "As you grow older, you'll see white men cheat black men every day of your life, but let me tell you something and you don't forget it- whenever a white man does that to a black man, no matter who he is, how rich he is, or how fine a family he comes from, that white man is trash." This is inspiring Jem to not become a racist white man, and I think this was good parenting by Atticus. However, Aunt Alexandra does not have exactly the same idea as Atticus in terms of racism in Maycomb. She wants to fire Calpurnia and she does not like the black members of their town, but she is not like Bob Ewell in the sense that she would want to kill them. She is contradicting the parenting that Atticus is doing to make Scout and Jem better members of society. Also, when Atticus invites Walter Cunningham over in the first part of the book, he describes to Scout that the Cunninghams are good people, even though they are extremely poor. When Aunt Alexandra commented on the matter, she said the Cunninghams were trash because of their obscure lifestyle. This is holding back Atticus' effectiveness as a parent.
Victoria, I agree. They need to see things from eachothers point of veiws, they need to understand eachother better before Scout will really become a lady.
Kasey,I don't agree. like I said AGAIN, I don't think it's right that Alexandra should change Scout's personality at ALL. Scout can be a tom boy if she wants to. Aunt Alexandra shouldn't be there for Scout only to teach her how to be a "lady", it's not right. If anything Alexandra should be there to help the kids and support them. She is supposed to be there like a mother for Scout.not to get her mad about the whole lady situation.
I think that attacus does the ebest he can. as a lawyer, he treats his kids fairly, and he always acts rationally. The one shortfall in attacus i see is that there isnt a womanly side to him, only a mature, guy side. He always just calls it like he sees it.
both Atticus and Calpurnia have good if different parenting styles. Calpurnia is more strict with the kids and her role is that of keeping the kids out of trouble and she accomplishes this by acting tough where in reality she loves the kids and she would do anything for them. Towards the begining of the novel Scout is distant from her but as the story goes on she becomes closer to her by doing things like going to Calpurnias church. Atticus is more of a loving if a bit detached parent. This is clearly represented by the fact that the kids call him Atticus and not father and although they love him they are not emotionally close to him. Despite this the kids clearly respect and love Atticus's calm personality. This is in part shown by Scout cuddleing with him and constantly seeking him for advice.
Atticus is doing the best he possibley can. His a single parent and has to take care of scout and Jem who can very hard to handle. there both fairly rebellious Especially scout. There's no wonder why she doesn't act lady like, she has no mother and Atticus can't teach her that can.
I agree with everyone in saying that Atticus and Calpurnia are both doing their best at being parents. I think Calpurnia has to take Scout and Jem with her more often and interact with Jem and scout. I think the reason why Aunt Alexandra is there is because she doesnt think Jem and Scout are being raised properly and dont know enough about their history and why they should be more proper. Aunt Alexandra comes to help Jem and Scout be raised more properly and learn that they come from a prominent and proper family.
I dont really agree with Victoria R because maybe its for the best and Aunt Alexandria could be helping them more than torturing them. Aunt Alexandria is setting them up for life. Scout should be more ladylike because in the future she will be less prominent and will disgrace the family name because if the Finch's are like Aunt Alexandria then Scout wont be more like her and will disgrace them. I'm trying to say that Aunt Alexandria is helping Scout get ready for life.
Atticus, Calpernia, Alexandria, and Cal all play a different role in this story. Atticus is a great single parent but in some ways he is an easy going parent and lets the kids explore and do what they want. I agree with Mtt that Calpernia is more strict and plays a lot of attention to the kids which is good because she is filling in that gap for Atticus. I also think she is a better role model for the kids. I also agree with Sarah O' about how Atticus is easy going but doesnt let the kids do anything bad. Grant F. also makes a good point about that phrase on page 255. Atticus is telling Jem not to grow up into a racest white man while Alexandra is a racest white woman. For example, when she throws her bags at the black man and tells him to bring them upstaires. Like I said before Aunt Alexandra plays a big role in the story. I think that most of the time she gets in the way and bothers the kids too much. She should be more open like Atticus instead of controling. The kids are kids, when its time they will grow up and become mature and act more like themselves, but right now they are young and want to have fun and explore. Also, Alexandra keeps trying to change their personality and make them act like people. they aren't.
I agree with mike when he said that Aunt Alexandra is there to raise scout in a way that she deems proper. she is also there in part to raise jem but the main reason for her presence is to make her tom boy niece scout more of a proper southern lady. Her main purpose in coming to live with the kids is to try to undue the "bad" that atticus has done, such as think highly of black people and be light when disiplining the children. the novel makes it clear that Aunt Alexandra doesn't approve of Atticus's behavior. Furthermore, I agree with mitche's statement that Atticus does a good job with the kids but he has only a manly side and isn't as nurturing as a woman would be. Aside from Aunt Alexandra's obvious shortcomings she is trying to do what is best for the children and in this way she is a motherly figure in the novel.
Victoria...It was different back then than it is now. Girls had to act like ladies and boys had to act like men. Every girl's mother is supposed to teach her how to act like a lady. Children need discipline, if they do not recieve discipline, then they will never learn. We are reading the book from Scout's point of veiw so obviously Aunt Alexandra seems cruel, but like I said previously all she is trying to do is teach Scout how to be a lady. Her goal is not to torture Scout, her goal is to make Scout a fine, young lady. I agree with Mike A, I think that the reason Aunt Alexandra is with the Finches is so that she can help Scout and Jem.
I agree with Kasey because I think Aunt Alexandra is just doing what she thinks is right. She doesn't think she's mean to Scout, but the whole book is from Scout's point of view. So we only have limited knowledge of what other's think. I agree with Mike A., but I think Aunt Alexandra is only helping Scout and Jem for the pride and reputation of the Finch family.
I agree with anyone who has said that neighborhood is like a large extended family. Each person on the street watches after the kids, offers advice, and helps them with anything else they need. While Atticus is at the trial Ms. Maudie and other neighbors watch over the kids while he can not. That is why I think that the kids run around and do whatever they want bcause they realize that almost every adult is watching over them, telling Atticus how they are doing, and will talk to them if they need advice or anything else. Although some adults are not good role models like dan willis said about Boo Radley. Boo makes the kids curious so they break rules to go near his house and to see him. Another bad influence is Nathan because he breaks the kids hearts by filling the tree with cement and he terrifies them by shooting near them when they trespassed
I agree with Ian and anyone else who said that the whole neighborhood is like one large family with each person looking after each other. I think that mrs Maudie more than anyone else is a parental figure among then neighbors. one clear example of this is when mrs maids house burned down everyone on the neighborhood came to help her out in her time of need. Jem and scout are also always playing at mrs maids house under her watchful eye. At times like this mrs Maudie is as much of a mother as the kids had ever had. When aunt Alexandra comes mrs Maudie along with Atticus and calpurnia try to be as loving as they can to make up for aunt Alexandas lack of love towards the kids.
I agree with Kasey. Aunt Alexandra is not a good parent. She is too strict and is a know it all. She acts like Scout and Jem are her kids, and she can control the house even though she's a guest there.Also, she is always trying to disagree with Atticus. Atticus is very open with the kids, and wants them to know how to handle the real world. He tries hard to make his kids not be racist even though the world around them is. He talks about things with Calpurnia, and she is a part of the family.
I agreed with Kasey on when she said that Aunt Alexandra needs to see things from Scouts point of view, but she needs to try harder to understand her. Right now she isnt trying at all to be a part of the family, and she will never be accepted if she doesnt try.
Nikki, I'm pretty sure you are disagreeing with me, but that's okay(: I think that Alexandra is a good parent, but Scout has never like her. Therefore, Scout is not willing to give her a chance and when Alexandra does something that annoys Scout, Scout makes a big deal about it. She thinks her aunt is so cruel and annoying, but all her aunt is trying to do is help. Along the way she is being mean, but that is not her intention. I agree that Atticus is very open with the kids, he wants them to do what is right and he explains everything to them that they need to know. He wants his kids to be the best person that they can be, he wants them not to judge, be racist, or to fight with others. I agree that Cal is part of the family.
When I wrote my reply I did not see the comment that you wrote after. I think that Alexandra needs to really try to connect with the kids, espically Scout because she thinks that Alexandra is the worst aunt ever. I actually think she is trying to be part of the family, she is trying to make Scout become a lady. Even though she is strict about it, parents need to be strict, so therefore I think that Alexandra is trying to be part of the family.
I disagree that she is tryibng. Alot of the time she is alone or not trying to interact with the kids. She's the outsider in this family, and therefore needs to try harder to be more like them. In any situation that is new to you, you need to attempt at being like the people already there. She wasnt ever actually invited, she told Atticus she was coming and then showed up. She needs to look at life through their eyes. They love Cal and she's one of them. Cal is even more welcome and part of the family then Alexandra. Cal acts smarter when with the kids and Atticus, but not smart with her friends and neighbors because thats what makes them happy. If she was trying then she would be nice to Cal.
Kasey, you said her aunt was trying to help, but it isnt helping if shes teaching then=m to be racist(from the way she treats cal). Shes also showing them that their father isnt always right by arguing with him, for example when they wanted to go to Cal's house and he said yes but she said no. She might be trying to help, but shes failng miserably.
I think that she needs to try harder, but I think she is trying. It's hard to move into a relative's home and make a total tomboy turn into a lady. I think that it is hard for her because she knows that Scout does not like her, but she doesn't know how to change Scout's mind. She came because she thought that Scout needed to act more like a lady. But I agree that she needs to try harder. Alexandra does not like Cal, not only because of her race, but also because she thinks that Cal should have changed Scout. Her goal is to make Scout a lady. I think that Alexandra is like most mothers, she wants her daughter to be a lady and most people back then did not like colored people.
Nikki, I am not saying that being racist is okay, but most people were back then. She is trying to teach Scout to not swear and to act and dreess more lady like. She needs to change her ways, but I think that she is definatly trying to help.
I think that Harper Lee's purpose for Aunt Alexandra was for the development of Scout becoming a lady. It shows everyone's point of views for Scout and how they deal with it. Alexandra is not there to be a friend to Scout, but to be a like a mother to her and try to make her become more lady like. Although, she does not make Scout want to become anymore of a lady because from Scout's point of view she is being mean and more controlling. I don't think that Harper Lee put Alexandra in their just to protect her from not being accepted, but also I think that from a personal point of view she wants her neice to be a lady.
First, she shouldnt just come in the house and start trying to change Scout. First she needs to make a relationship with her. And her goal shouldnt be to totally change her, it needs to be gradual. She probably does kno she doesnt like her,but that she be more motivation for her to change her attitude and be more like them. She came partly because of that, but also wanted to change Atticus' parenting, which was already good. You said, "Alexandra does not like Cal, not only because of her race" but thats horrible. I know its part of their times, but Atticus is trying so hard to make his kids not be racist, and then Alexandra comes into the house being racist to the mother figure of the kids. And Cal's job isnt to change Scout. She loves Scout and keeps her safe and a good person. Although being a lady is important, being a good person is more important. Also, Scout isnt Alexandras daughter.
Kasey, She is trying to help, but shes making it worse. Cal and Atticus are already trying to teach her not to swear and Alexandra there isnt helping. With or without her, Scout is going to do what she wants to. Especially since she doesnt respect Alexandra for many reasons.
Nikki, are you trying to say that what Alexandra is doing it completely wrong?
Taylor,
In a way yes. She came into the house prectically unwanted, and acted like it was her own. She disagrees with Atticus' parenting, and shows the kids to be racist, Cal is part of the family there, and she needs to respect her. Sh needs to understsnd it isnt her house and therefore not her rules. Also, being a lady was really imprtant back then, but its more important to be a good person and Atticus knows that and is trying to teach his kids that. Alexandra doesnt help by being there, and should therefore leave.
I have been saying that she needs to make a relationship with Scout. Goals do not just happened after a few days, they take time...it will gradually happen. She came also so she could be there while Atticus was dealing with the case, not really to change his parenting, just ot chnage the way he has been bringing up Scout, not all of his parenting. I know that it is bad, I'm not saying that it isn't I was just explaining to you why Alexandra is not cooperating with Cal. Atticus is trying to teach the childrewn not to be racist, which is really good and I agree that Alexandra should not come in and be racist. I agree that being a good person is more important and that's what Atticus is trying to teach his schildren, but being ladylike is what most girls learn to be like.
Nikki- In a way I agree with you, but at the same time she helps the development in the book. She is trying to help Scout become more of a lady, and I think that its just her personality and the way she deals with things.
Kasey
I agree she needs a relationship with Scout. Thats what I said about goals...But it's his kid and he has the right to raise her the way he wants her to be raised. You have to remember its not her kid. She has no right to change Atticus' parenting if hes happy with it. Girls do learn to be ladylike, but Scout is still young and has time to learn when she's ready.
Taylor
I dont see how shes progressing the book. I think the book would be the same with her gone.
Nikki and Kasey- I mostly agree with Kasey, because she is helping out the family at the same time. Atticus was spending all of his time on the case, so she came in to help and be a parent when no one was there except Calpurnia.
I think that Atticus is doing a really good job of parenting. He is teaching his children not to be racist, he is teaching them to look past a person's race and look inside of them and how they are as a person. He wants them to stand up for what they believe in and fight for what's right, even though many people may disagree. Like, Atticus is a colored man's lawyer. He tells Scout that he is not going to win the case, but he is still fighting because it is the right thing to do. Jem realizes this and when his father is in the jail and he tells Jem to leave he stays anyways. Jem does what he thinks is right, tha'ts why Atticus didn't get mad at Jem because he knew that Jem was doing what he thought was right and he knew that there would be consequences.
Also Nikki- She is progressing because without her it would only be Calpurnia there when Atticus was dealing with the case, and it seems that Calpurnia does not really care about Scout becoming more of a lady.
She doesnt help. Cal does parenting and caretaking. She sews.
Kasey- I agree with you that he is doing a good job of parenting , but Alexandra came into the book because Atticus wasn't there as much because of dealing with the case so she was being a parent figure for the children when he wasn't there.
I agree with Taylor. Even though Alexandra may be mean in Scout's eyes, she is definatly helping out. And Calpurnia is not always there so the kids would be left alone at night time. I think that Alexnadra is being helpful to the Finches.
Kasey
You feel that Cal isnt doing a good enough job because she doesnt take care of the kids enough. But, I think that she does a really good job. Scout even said in the book that Cal was helping her be like a lady. Cal is very busy cooking and cleanign and the kids are happy playing. It was important to be ladylike, but Scout is still really young and will grow into being ladylike.
Cal is parenting, but she really has nothing to do with Scout becoming a lady. Whereas Alexandra does a lot towards Scout trying to make her more lady like, so the book would not be the same without Alexandra.
I agree with Taylor because Atticus hasn't been home lately so Aunt Alexandra was acting as the parent, but I don't think she would have to do that as much if she let Calpurnia take care of them. Calpurnia doesn't stay overnight with them though. I think that Aunt Alexandra is in the book because it was an obstacle for Scout and her tomboyish ways.
Nikki, Cal is like a nanny, she can't be doing everything at once though, so it is diffucult for her, that's why Alexandra is there...I agree with Taylor, again.
Taylor
Cal does care, she jist thinks other things are more important and tries harder in those areas.
You both say shes helping, but where in the book is it working? So far, even though shes there, Scout is not more of a lady. So theres no point in her being there
Kasey
No, Cal does practically everything. At night they go to sleep and Alexandra isnt needed anymore.
I'm not saying Cal is doing a bad job...I actually think she's doing a really good job. I just think that she is really busy so it is hard for her to sew, cook, clean, and teach Scout how to be a lady. That's a lot for one woman to do that does not even live at the house. Cal has always been helpful, she even brought the kids to her own church. With the help of Alexandra, Scout will eventually turn ladylike, but if she is always swearing then it will take awhile to become ladylike, so I think that it is good that Aunt Alexandra is there.
Nikki...I'm confused...are you saying that being a lady includes swearing and beating people up? Atticus is trying to work with Scout so that she does not fight with anyone any more
I agree with Elizabeth and Kasey, Alexandra would not have to do as much if she let Cal do as much, but instead she decides to be racist, so she does not like Cal. Alexandra is progressing the book for Scout in a big way.
Nikki and Kasey- Do you think that Cal is involved at all in being a lady? I think she is not, and thats one reason why Alexandra is in the book.
Nikki...it takes awhile for a complete tomboy to turn into a lady, espically when she hates Alexandra and does not want to listen to her.
Cal does not live at the house, so she can not always be there every second. It's good that they have Alexandra because if something bad happened at night and Atticus is not home...what would they do?
But there is no progress so far. With no results then there is no point in being there. When shes older they can try again, but for now it isnt helping. Yes AKsey he is working with her...and its working unlike Alexandras help...Alexandra isnt doing anything, and Atticus talked to her a few times. No thats not what a lady does, but she isnt a lady yet. She is a kid and is still growing up.
I agree with taylor...I do not think that Cal is involved in being a lady. I agree with you 100%, that is the main reason why Alexandra came.
Atticus is usually home at night. If something were to happen after Cals gone, there are several neighbors they could talk to and get help from
There is a reason for Alexandra to be there, she was helping with parenting when Cal could not. Cal can't do everything around the house, so Alexandra acts as a mother figure in the book.
That's why she came, but it isnt working!! Cal and Atticus are getting more progress then she is because Scout has no respect for her and no she isnt trying to earn Scouts respect. without respect it wont work.
Alexandra can not totally take control, she has to be closer to Scout first. I think it is better to start younger because the main reason she is a tomboy is because she wants to fit in with Jem and she was never taught how to be a girl. If someone can not learn the write, but his parents want him to be a writer when he's older does that mean that they can just teach him how to write when he is in high school? I do not think that would really work Nikki. She is trying to do stuff, not everything is working out because things take time!!!
Alexandra is not at all a mother figure. When shes been in the book she sits there, argues with Atticus, and sews. She hasnt once been involved in actually parenting them.
Personally I think she is going to stay until Scout makes any progress, so I don't really think she cares if Scout likes her or not, she just wants Scout to change.
I think that Atticus is doing the best he can to raise his kids as a single father. He does a good job and realizes that he could improve in some parts.He wants his kids to like him, so he lets them have freedom. This is shown more in part two until Aunt Alexandra arrives. She changes his perspectives on how the kids should behave. He is starting to want Scout to be more of a lady because if she doesnt she wont fit in with all the other girls. Cal. is more of the mother in the kids lives and Aunt Alexandra tries to change this by treating her as she is lower because she is black. They had stable enviorments growing for the kids. This was that their dad feture was Atticus and Mother was Cal.
I disagree with what KC said about how Aunt Alexandra is teaching Scout to be a lady wrong. Aunt Alexandra wants for Scout to be a lady but scout doesnt give her the chance to do so.
I also disagree with both Taylor and KC because Cal is like a nanny to Atticus, but to the kids she is more of a mother. Although Aunt Alexandra is there for overnight trips Cal. has always been there for the family and will be until she is no longer needed.
But writing is different. Many girls go through stages, right now hers is a tomboy stage. Thats who she is, and she will grow into being more ladylike.
What is something happened and Atticus wasn't home...like something happened inside the house that caused them to not be able to get out safely unless they were with an adult...Nikki, calm down...things take time. They need to connect better with eachother.
Nikki i completely disagree, she doesn't just sit there in the book. One example is when the gang came to the front door and the kids wanted to know what was going on, she was parenting them then....
Yes because things happen ALLL the time that need an adult to get you out of the house....wow kasey you calm down kiddo :) Yes they need to connect, and since Alexandra is t=older she needs to make the first move.
She is a tomboy because she wants to fit in with Jem and play with him as much as she can. I think if she had a mother, she would be more ladylike and she wouldn't always want to spend time with Jem.
Not at all taylor. She said dont go to the window...did they listen? Nope. They have no respect for her because she doesnt try to gain their respect.
I agree with Kasey, but I don't think Scout is just trying to fit in with Jem, I think its just the way she was brought up.
I'm perfecty calm kidddooo(: Many different things could happen, you never know Nikki and it's just a story so many different things could happen. I agree that Alexandra needs to "make the first move"..
If she had a mother she would. But sadly her mother died. Alexandra cant just come in and pretend shes their mom. If she wanted to do that she shouldve come sooner and actually made them like her.
Nikki...she was making an effort though...you are saying that she doesn't even try.
Nikki- She wants to gain their respect, but it isn't working. They didn't listen becuase they wanted to make sure Atticus was okay, and who was there.
Taylor
I agree with Kasey that she was trying to fit in with Jem....thats why she does a lot of what she does.
Well maybe she did not realize that Scout wasn't acting like a lady, she is not always with Scout...she also came because Atticus is busy right now and it's not fair to Cal if she has to do all the work.
I dont think she does try...I feel like shes just ther, and doesnt make an effort to make then like her.
Taylor
How can you say she wants that if she hasnt shown it...what has she done to that shows she wants respect?
Nikki- Only to a certain extent, but she is also a tomboy because she had no motherly figure. I feel that if she did she would be more of a lady.
I agree with Taylor, they also wanted to know if someone had died and who it was...because in the book it said that the only two reason that people were on someone else's lawns was either because of politics or a death.
BUt she sees scout every Christmas, once a year. Even if Atticus's busy, she couldve come sooner if she wanted to.
She is trying, but she needs to try harder. She needs to try and really connect with Scout because their relationship is the biggest thing that stands in the way of Scout becoming a lady.
Nikki- good point, but I think that she just wants to make Scout a lady and to be a parent figure for them at this point, but I feel that she kind of wants to gain their respect along the way.
Christmas is only once a year, maybe she thought that Scout would grow out of that stage, but she is becoming older now, so Alexandra wants Scout to change. She couldn't really come before because hse had to look after her grandson...that would not be fair to just leave him
She probably would, but maybe not. Some people are tomboys and thats who they are.
Kasey
Yes they were interested but if they respected her they wouldve listened. They dont have respect for her because she isnt trying atr alll.
I agree with Kasey- but also she is protecting Scout from not being accepted. If she wasn't accepted, Back then anything could happen.
They do not respect her, she needs to try to gain their trust and have them respect her...but she is trying to make Scout act like a lady. They do not have any respect for her becatse they do not like her.
Kasey
she could take him with her
Before she can do anything with Scout she needs respect so that should be priority for her.
She could, but she didn't...It should be a priority for her. I agree that it should
But its not, so do either of you think she will get anywhere while staying there?
Kasey, what is your view on this...
In the inclass discussion we talked about death and the value of it. This came up because of the question "Why do you think the gang left"
I feel that the value of life is the same whether you are a child or an adult. A child hasnt gotten a chance to live, but an adults life is still important.
I don't think that Scout's tomboyishness (if that's a word) is a stage. She's been a tomboy for a while because her only friends were Dill and Jem.
taylor
No i do not think she will get anywhere. She is stubborn and unless that changes nothing will progress for her.
I agree with Elizabeth...she will grow out of it when she's older, but for now that's how she acts.
Elizabeth- She has also had no motherly figure to show her how to be a lady.
I agree that life has value, no matter how old you are. When you are young you have not really lived life, you have many memories and you should be allowed to have many more. When you are older you have lived a long life and there is nothing wrong with living longer, so you can live life to the fullest and so you can be there to support others.
I agree with Elizabeth, it is not a stage...she will not grow out of it until someone teaches her otherwise.
Kasey
I completely agree with you!!! Life is important no matter what type of person you are. EWveryone deserves to live as long as they can and doesnt deserve to have their life taken from them by a person who has no right to make that decission
Oops! I cant read! I thout Elizabeth said she did think it was a stage.
WOW! nikki that's a first!!(: Yes!! I agreee(: That reminds me of earlier when we had to do an essay on the Death Penalty, everyone should be allowed to live their life. Even if they do make mistakes.
Nice going nickkkkster!!!:P
I think she will grow out of it. Jem is getting older and more mature, and Miss Maudie will help her since they hang out. Also Cal does help her to a degree though she could focus more on it.
I agree with Kasey and Nikki- It doesn't matter who you are you have rights, and deserve to be whoever you want to be!
Thanks Kasterrr!!!!
I know!!! We never agree with each other....this is not normal!!! It does remind me of the death penalty also. People always deserve a second chance.
I think she will eventually grow out of it if she has a motherly figure, Alexandra, to help her...if they ever do actually get along.
Tayler
Kasey isnt sayoing that. I said that...she thinks girls have to be ladies, which I think is stereotypical. I think everyone deserves to be whoever they want to be.
Nikki- what does Cal do to help Scout become a lady???
They wont get along though. If she actually tries then maybe it could work and they could get along enough to help each other, but if not then it wont work.Plus, Scout already has a mother figure...Cal has been there fir her and is like her mom
She doesnt do much purposefully, but I remember at some point in the book Scout said that Cal was showing her how to be a lady
Your welcome Nickster!!!!(;
This is deffff a first!!!!! Sometimes people do things because someone did something to them first, so if they learn things the right way maybe they won't make that mistake again...In class we discussed when we thought Jem became a man...I thought it was when he stayed with Atticus even though he told Jem to leave. Jem was fighting for something that he believe in even though he knew there would be consequences, like his father is doing at court. Nickster, when do you think Jem starts acting like a man?
To Kasey-
I agree with you because Scout needs a lady to teach her to act right, but I Aunt Alexandra isn't doing it right to fit Scout's needs.
To Nikki-
I don't think Scout will grow out of this, she doesn't have the proper person to teach her. I think Calpurnia might be able to, but Aunt Alexandra isn't letting her and Calpurnia hasn't really tried to make Scout a lady. It wasn't her first priority.
Actually Nikki, I do not think that I am being stereotypical, that's just how girls were wanted to act back then...if I thought that wouldn't I be acting more like a lady(; Everyone should be who they want to be, but sometimes they can't always be because of others around them.
I agree that could be a very good place. Before he was acting like a grown up, but didnt act on it. It couldve been before that, though when he decided to leave and go see his dad. But I do think the best place where he became a man is when he stayed
I agree Elizabeth, Alexandra is not fitting Scout's needs. She needs to try to connect and understand Scout first, otherwise they are not going to have too much progress.
I agree, I think around that area is when he became a man.
I feel that people should always be who they want to be. It shouldnt matter what other people think, because in the long run it only matters what makes you happy. But, i do think it was necassary back then, but still sterotipical. It's like how people say tall people shouldd play basketball. Im tall and I am horrible at basketball! Back then, girls had to be very ladylike. Scout was a tombyt, and therefore wasnt good at being ladylike
They should be allowed to be who they want to be, but sometimes they can't always because they are pressured into being someone else.
True,thats why atticus is a really good parent. He shows them how to be a good person,and not fall into the forceful public view of racism. his kids dont jude people by race, like so many others do
Atticus is definatly a good parent, he teahces his children to not follow others if they disagree, not to be racist, and he teaches them many other things that other kids get taught.
I think that in the time he was living in, he taught his kids what others didnt learn. Other kids were taught to be racist, because sadly majority down south were racist. Other parents probably didnt talk as much about how to speak up and not be a follower. Atticus had a completely different view on how to be a parent
What I was saying is that he taught his children things that others parents didn't teacht their children and things that people did teach their children. I dont think that the children were actaully taught to be racist, but the whole town was and their parents were. The parents probaly did nothing to stop the kids so that is why they were racist. Atticus is a loving and accepting father.
I agree. Usually children follow the example of their parents. If their parents are racist then its hard for them not to be.Atticus is a great father who is very admirable and that he's a really good example for his kids to follow.
I agree. Atticus is definatly one of the better parents in the town.
He isnt just one of the better, I think he's the best. I though the Cunninghams were good, but then Mr Cunningham went in the mob. It shows his kids a bad example, even if he left before doing something regrettable. He is also one of few parents who arent racist, and he is most likely one of the only ones who would ever take on Tom's case.
He is the best of all the parents we have met there are other parents in the town. Atticus must have a lot of courage to do what he is doing.
Kacey- Clearly Atticus is a great parent; maybe even one of the better ones in town. I completely agree with you. He even makes a great lawyer. As opposed to Mr. Ewell, who isn't proven to be guilty, I am starting to believe that he was the one who hurt Mayella. What kind of father would do that? You can see many differences between Mr. Ewell and Atticus. Mr. Ewell, for example, doesn't require his children to go to school. Responsible? I think not! Atticus always has a close eye on his kids and loves them to a full extent. So this is all backing you up, Kacey, saying that you're right when saying Atticus is one of the better parents in town.
Yes, many people in the town have already decided tom is guilty. It takes a lot for Atticus to stand in front of people who already have their verdict and still try to change their minds. Many people have been talking badly about him, and he ignores it. Also, he teaches his children to ignore it which is another good parenting example
Many people think that Tom is guilty because of his skin color. It takes a lot of courage and bravery to stand up infront of so many people and agrue against everyone. I think that eventually Atticus will change everyone's mind, I think that Mr. Ewell was the one who abused Mayella. He is like the man from "12 Angry Men". It might take some time, but eventually everyone will see the truth.
i somewhat agree. I agree that they think Tom is guilty because of his race. Also, I agree that Mr Ewell abused her. Their stories didnt match up, and she kept pausing and looking at him. I dont know if hes going to be able to change their minds. They should be able to because his case is goo, but the people already have their minds made up, and dont want to change their minds, even though hes innocent.
Nikkio, I think that most of the court are racists and the are all judging. I think that Mayella fears her father, that's why she kept looking at him, so she would know that what she said was okay and it wasn't giving anything away. I agree that people do not want to change their minds.
Exactly, people are stubborn and decided they didnt like tom because of his race, and nothing else matters to them. he might be able to change the mind of a few people, but not enough, even though most people reading today think he's innocent.
I think that he might be able to chnage everyone's mind if he can convience everyone to look past race and focus on the case more. I agree that most people today that are reading TKAM think that Tom's innocent.
I dont think it will be possible for him to get people to look past race. Everyone has their minds set about the case, and race is the biggest factor in that. Its sad that back then many innocent peoples lives were probably taken away because of the race factor. If this case were real and happened in today's time, Tom would be innocent. It's really good that people have overcome being racist and prejudicing their court verdicts on the race of a person.Luckily nothing like this case would happen today, but it happened a lot back in the 50's.
I know, I am saying if people decide to look past racisim then maybe he will be found innocent. Hopefully, everyone will be able to look past it and realize the truth. I agree that it's good that now people have overcome being racisit.
When I said "Luckily nothing like this case would happen today" I meant that no cases today in america are judged by their races and dont have pre decided verdict based on their races
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