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

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

In Harper Lee's highly anticipated and thought-provoking novel, "Go Set a Watchman," the acclaimed author once again delves into the profound themes of prejudice and injustice, dissecting the intricate web of societal constructs that both shape and confine the human experience. Building upon the foundation laid in her seminal work, "To Kill a Mockingbird," Lee extends her literary gaze to the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, where the insidious tendrils of prejudice and injustice continue to entangle the lives of its inhabitants.

At the heart of Lee's exploration lies the enigmatic figure of Jean Louise Finch, known affectionately as Scout. Now a young woman grappling with the complexities of adulthood, Scout finds herself confronting the disillusionment that comes with the revelation of the flaws within the beloved figures of her childhood. As Scout returns to Maycomb from her life in New York City, she is confronted with the stark reality that her once idyllic hometown is a hotbed of racial inequality and entrenched prejudice.

Through Scout's eyes, Lee exposes the unsettling truth that prejudice is not simply a product of a bygone era, but a persistent force that persists within the hearts and minds of individuals, permeating every aspect of society. The insidiousness of prejudice is laid bare as Scout confronts the deep-seated biases of her friends, family, and community members. Lee captures the multifaceted nature of prejudice, illustrating how it manifests not only in overt acts of racism but also in the subtler forms of bias that lurk beneath the surface.

Moreover, Lee skillfully weaves the theme of injustice into the fabric of the narrative, juxtaposing it against the backdrop of prejudice. In "Go Set a Watchman," injustice is not merely a consequence of prejudiced attitudes but a systemic flaw that perpetuates the unequal treatment of individuals based on race, class, and social status. Lee exposes the underlying mechanisms that perpetuate injustice, showcasing the entanglement of societal structures that perpetuate the marginalization and disenfranchisement of certain groups.

Through the character of Henry Clinton, Scout's childhood friend and potential love interest, Lee navigates the complexities of racial identity and the limitations imposed by societal expectations. Henry's struggle to reconcile his African American heritage with the expectations of a predominantly white society underscores the devastating effects of systemic injustice on individual lives. His experiences serve as a microcosm for the larger narrative, highlighting the deeply entrenched nature of discrimination and the profound impact it has on the lives of those who are caught within its grip.

Furthermore, Lee confronts the reader with the uncomfortable truth that prejudice and injustice are not exclusive to individuals or communities but are deeply ingrained within the very institutions that govern society. As Scout's disillusionment grows, she becomes acutely aware of the complicity of those she once admired in perpetuating the status quo. The realization that even the pillars of justice and morality can be tainted by prejudice shakes the foundation of her worldview and forces her to grapple with the profound implications of her own complicity in a flawed system.

In "Go Set a Watchman," Harper Lee paints a searing portrait of a society grappling with its own demons. Through her meticulously crafted characters and their personal journeys, she exposes the fault lines that fracture communities and individuals alike. The novel serves as a poignant reminder that the eradication of prejudice and injustice requires introspection, collective action, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of equality and justice for all.

Lee's narrative prowess shines through in her evocative prose, immersing the reader in a world where the consequences of prejudice and injustice reverberate with both emotional and intellectual intensity. Through her exploration of these enduring themes, she holds up a mirror to society, challenging readers to confront their own biases and assumptions. "Go Set a Watchman" stands as a testament to the power of literature to illuminate the darker corners of our collective consciousness, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath the surface of our societal fabric.