Theme

Your literature book defines theme as "the insight about human life that is revealed in literary work." Themes are usually not directly stated in the work but must be inferred by the reader after thoughtful reflection. To Kill a Mockingbird , however, directly states a courage theme and a compassion theme. Can you find these direct statements of theme? Additionally, can you come up with your own education theme? I.e., what message about education does the book convey?

Point of View

Harper Lee's use of first person flashback narration is one very effective element of To Kill a Mockingbird. The reader experiences events with young Scout but benefits from the perspective of adult Scout. Provide examples of one or both perspectives.

Social Order

Discuss the social hierarchy of 1930s Maycomb, Alabama.

Flowers

Have you noticed that some characters seem to have their own flower connection? Give an example that includes a character, the character's flower, and what the flower may symbolize or convey about the character. Support your ideas with passages and page numbers from the book.

Parenting

Describe the parenting style of Atticus Finch. Do you think Atticus models good parenting skills?