Effects of Intolerance in Society
In society, many people tend to reject those who are different. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee presents a number of situations that reveal the effects of intolerance on other people's lives. The characters in the novel who were treated with a lack of intolerance were Boo Radley, Atticus Finch and Tom Robinson. By observing the effects of intolerance on people's lives, the children gain sympathy, respect and understanding for its victims. The children gain sympathy for Boo Radley when they observe how others reject him. Ever since his teenage years, Boo had been a prisoner in his own home because his father kept him locked up as a form of punishment. As a result of his isolationism, Boo gained the reputation of Maycomb's mysterious man. Town folk have created rumours about Boo for a source of gossip. Miss Stephanie, known as the "neighbourhood scold", told the children that "Boo drove the scissors into his parent's leg, pulled them out, wiped them on his pants, and resumed his activities" (Lee 11). Jem Finch was another culprit who succeeded in spreading rumours about Boo Radley. The young and mischievous Jem told Dill that "[Boo] dined on raw squirrels and any cats he could catch" (13). It appeared that the tow
By viewing the effects of intolerance on people's lives, the children gain sympathy, respect and understand for its victims. Boo Radley was a misunderstood man that had been harassed throughout his entire life. The children observed how he alienated himself from society and they felt sympathetic toward him. Atticus was a strong, dedicated person who tried to enforce justice in the courtroom for human rights. His diversified character was an asset to the success of the story. Reality of the 1930's was evident with the story behind Tom Robinson. He was a victim of racial discrimination which eventually led to his death. The children gained understanding from Robinson and realized that nothing else could have been done for him. In conclusion, intolerance destroyed the lives of people yet it taught a valuable lesson to others involved. The children gain respect for Atticus when they see how he is treated with intolerance late one night. Atticus had always been one of Maycomb's most respected men before the Tom Robinson's trial. Atticus was at the county jail to protect Tom Robinson when he was joined by angry townspeople. These townspeople wanted to kill Robinson but Atticus stood his ground by telling them "you can turn around and go home" (151). These townspeople let their hatred for Tom interfere with their wise judgeme
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Approximate Word count = 895
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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