To Kill a Mockingbird--Post 2!!

Molly Walsh

April 17, 2012

Post 2 for To Kill a Mockingbird

            In chapter 3 of the book, Scout has her first day of school and it doesn’t go over too well.  Ms. Caroline, her teacher doesn’t know how to deal with all of the interesting children in her class including Scout’s independent spirit and comments that come with it.  Atticus taught scout how to read a while earlier, yet when Ms. Caroline found out, she was angry and didn’t want Scout to learn any more.  It almost seemed as if she didn’t approve of Scout’s education, which is sort of weird.  Wouldn’t a teacher be super happy if a kid already knew how to read and read well?  Scout being able to read would mean one less kid she would have to teach. I feel like there is a theme of education is important in this part of the story because even though the teacher does not approve of Scout’s ability to read, Atticus still teaches her because he sees the value and the use to educate Scout.  Also, this shows that even if someone disapproves of something, that doesn’t mean you stop doing it just because you were told to.

            This is a quick thing and I don’t think it’s a big part of the book, but I think it’s really cute that Dill proposed to Scout as a seven year old.  There is something about it that just alludes to childhood dreams and innocence and just that it’s a sweet side story.  It’s one of tier many games that they play as kids before they have to deal with weird drama and responsibilities as adults.

            So far, we still see little of Atticus and don’t know very much about him, but there have been a few clues that Scout has revealed to us.  He has a strong moral backbone and is a kind person.  He is willing to be paid in products rather than money and he doesn’t mind because he knows some people are more fortunate than others, but that everyone still needs help and is willing to give it to them.  It is interesting that he sometimes wakes up in the middle of the night, too.  He checks on his kids, which I think is cute.  Then he reads.  I’m kind of jealous that he can just wake up in the middle of the night, if I did that, I would totally be a zombie the next morning.  I am curious about what is in his head and what he thinks about.  He obviously has a strong moral backbone and is a good person, so it would be fascinating to get inside his head.