From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

How does Harper Lee explore the theme of prejudice and discrimination in “Go Set a Watchman”?

In the literary oeuvre of Harper Lee, a masterful weaver of words and societal complexities, the theme of prejudice and discrimination takes center stage in her seminal work, "Go Set a Watchman." With lyrical prose and incisive social commentary, Lee delves into the deep-rooted biases and systemic injustices that pervade the tapestry of Southern society, confronting readers with the uncomfortable realities of prejudice and discrimination.

Set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement in the 1950s, "Go Set a Watchman" serves as a searing indictment of the racial prejudices ingrained in the fabric of the small town of Maycomb, Alabama. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Jean Louise Finch, affectionately known as Scout, who returns to her hometown from New York City, only to be confronted by the jarring dissonance between her cherished memories of Maycomb and the prevailing atmosphere of racial tension and injustice.

One of the primary ways in which Lee explores the theme of prejudice and discrimination is through the character of Scout's father, Atticus Finch, who was previously portrayed as a paragon of moral righteousness in "To Kill a Mockingbird." In a striking reversal, Scout discovers that Atticus is a member of the local Citizens' Council, a group that upholds segregationist ideologies. This revelation shatters Scout's idealized perception of her father and forces her to confront the uncomfortable truth that even those closest to us can harbor deep-seated prejudices.

Through Scout's interactions with the African American community in Maycomb, Lee exposes the harsh realities of racial discrimination. Characters such as Calpurnia, the Finch family's former nanny, and Reverend Sykes, a prominent figure in the local African American church, serve as poignant reminders of the marginalized voices and limited opportunities faced by people of color. Their experiences and perspectives provide a stark contrast to the privileged existence of the white residents of Maycomb, shedding light on the profound injustices perpetuated by a system built on racial hierarchies.

Furthermore, Lee skillfully employs dialogue and confrontations to highlight the insidious nature of prejudice and discrimination. Through intense and heated exchanges between Scout and her uncle, Dr. Jack Finch, and between Scout and her childhood friend, Henry "Hank" Clinton, the true depths of racial bias are laid bare. These confrontations expose the underlying assumptions, stereotypes, and double standards that fuel prejudice, illuminating the pervasive nature of discrimination and the challenges of dismantling deeply entrenched beliefs.

In addition to racial prejudice, Lee also explores other forms of discrimination in "Go Set a Watchman." The novel delves into the entrenched gender roles and expectations of Southern society, as Scout grapples with the limitations imposed upon her as a woman. Her struggle for independence and autonomy becomes intertwined with the broader theme of discrimination, underscoring the intersecting layers of prejudice that shape individuals' lives.

Through her vivid and poignant storytelling, Lee leaves an indelible impact on readers, challenging them to confront their own biases and question the societal structures that perpetuate discrimination. She highlights the corrosive effects of prejudice on individuals and communities, revealing the destructive power of preconceived notions and the urgent need for empathy, understanding, and societal change.

"Go Set a Watchman" serves as a searing reminder that prejudice and discrimination are not relics of the past but enduring issues that continue to plague our societies. Through her narrative tapestry, Lee encourages readers to examine their own biases, challenge the status quo, and strive for a world where the insidious grip of prejudice is replaced by compassion, equality, and justice.