Scout vs. Town Prejudice

Scout's confrontations with the town's racism and her gradual learning of nonviolent resistance.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The First Taunt

The First Taunt Cecil's Words Cecil Jacobs announces that Scout Finch's daddy defends niggers. Scout is confused and angry. She denies it but later confirms with Atticus. The Initial Response Scout wants to fight, but she remembers Atticus's request. She walks away, the first time she has done so. She feels noble but also humiliated. The Beginning of Endurance Scout learns that the town's prejudice will not go away. She must learn to endure it with dignity. This is the first of many tests.

The Christmas Assault

The Christmas Assault Francis's Insults Francis Hancock calls Atticus a nigger-lover and says he is ruining the family. Scout loses control and attacks him. The Punishment Uncle Jack spanks her without hearing her side. She learns that adults are not always fair. She also learns that she must control her temper. The Resolution Uncle Jack apologizes when he learns the truth. Scout realizes that her father's reputation is worth defending, but she must do it wisely.

The Daily Gauntlet

The Daily Gauntlet Mrs. Dubose's Abuse Mrs. Dubose shouts insults at the children daily. She calls Atticus a nigger-lover and says he is trash. The children endure it. The Schoolyard Gossip Other children repeat the rumors. Scout and Jem are ostracized. They learn to hold their heads high. The Internalization Scout becomes hardened to the insults. She learns to distinguish between what matters and what doesn't. Her father's advice keeps her centered.

The Trial's Impact on Scout

The Trial's Impact on Scout The Courtroom Experience Scout sits in the courtroom and witnesses the injustice. She sees the jury's prejudice and the Ewells' lies. She is confused by the verdict. The Conversation with Atticus Atticus tells her that the jury's decision is a product of Maycomb's usual disease. He explains that prejudice is a sickness. The Growth in Understanding Scout begins to understand that the town's prejudice is deep-rooted. She learns that she can fight it not with fists but with understanding and perseverance.

early in the school year

Christmas at Finch's Landing

throughout the months before the trial

during and after the trial