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

What is the symbolism behind the mockingbird in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Harper Lee's literary masterpiece, "To Kill a Mockingbird," presents readers with a profound and multi-layered exploration of various themes, including social injustice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Among the many symbols that populate the novel, the mockingbird emerges as a deeply significant and poignant motif. Representing innocence, compassion, and the destructive nature of prejudice, the mockingbird stands as a haunting symbol that resonates throughout the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on the moral fabric of society and the consequences of intolerance.

The mockingbird, a creature renowned for its melodious song and harmless nature, becomes a potent symbol of innocence. Just as the mockingbird's sole purpose is to sing joyfully and bring beauty to the world, certain characters in the novel embody this purity of spirit. The most prominent examples are Tom Robinson and Boo Radley, both unjustly persecuted individuals who possess inherently good and kind hearts. They are likened to mockingbirds, as their innocence is brutally destroyed by the bigotry and cruelty of society. By associating these characters with the mockingbird, Lee emphasizes the tragic loss of innocence and the unjust consequences of prejudice.

In the case of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape, the symbolism of the mockingbird is particularly poignant. Tom's kind-heartedness, integrity, and gentle nature mirror the innocence of the bird itself. Like the mockingbird, he is wrongly targeted and persecuted simply because of his race. His trial and subsequent fate serve as a powerful critique of the racial injustice that prevailed in the 1930s American South. Tom's conviction and ultimate demise represent the destruction of innocence and the brutal consequences of prejudice and discrimination.

Boo Radley, the reclusive neighbor who remains hidden from the world, is another embodiment of the mockingbird symbol. Boo's isolation and misunderstood nature render him a target of fear and suspicion within the community. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Boo is a gentle and kind-hearted soul, watching over the children from a distance and ultimately saving them from harm. Boo's act of protecting Scout and Jem from the malevolent intentions of Bob Ewell is emblematic of the mockingbird's selflessness and the triumph of goodness over prejudice.

Beyond its association with innocence, the mockingbird also serves as a symbol of compassion and empathy. Atticus Finch, the moral compass of the novel, imparts a valuable lesson to his children by teaching them that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. This injunction is not merely about protecting innocent creatures but extends to the realm of human interaction. Atticus instructs his children to approach others with compassion and understanding, rather than perpetuating harm through prejudice and violence. In doing so, Lee emphasizes the importance of empathy and the need to recognize the shared humanity in all individuals.

Moreover, the symbolism of the mockingbird highlights the destructive nature of prejudice and the impact it has on society as a whole. The novel reveals how prejudice leads to the dehumanization of others, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and suffering. The act of "killing" a mockingbird, whether literal or metaphorical, represents the loss of compassion and the destruction of innocence caused by prejudice. Through the mockingbird motif, Lee challenges readers to confront the damaging consequences of discrimination and to strive for a more equitable and empathetic society.

The mockingbird in "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a powerful and resonant symbol that encapsulates the themes of innocence, compassion, and the destructive power of prejudice. It serves as a poignant reminder of the moral responsibility to protect and preserve the vulnerable, and the devastating consequences of intolerance. Harper Lee's skillful use of the mockingbird motif invites readers to reflect on the inherent goodness within humanity, the need for empathy, and the imperative to confront prejudice and injustice in order to foster a more compassionate and just society.