in to kill a mockingbord, how do the issues of race and class intersect in the novel affect the characters
In "To Kill a Mockingbird," the issues of race and class intersect in a way that deeply impacts the characters in the novel. The story is set in the Jim Crow era South, where racial segregation and discrimination were rampant. The main conflict of the story revolves around the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman.
The intersection of race and class is most evident in the treatment of the African American characters in the novel. Tom Robinson is a poor, black man who is automatically seen as guilty simply because of his race. Despite his innocence, he is convicted by an all-white jury due to the deeply ingrained racism of the community. The African American characters in the novel, such as Tom Robinson and Calpurnia, face discrimination and prejudice solely based on their skin color.
Similarly, the Finch family, who are white and of a higher social class, also face challenges related to race and class. Atticus Finch, the father of Scout and Jem, is a lawyer who chooses to defend Tom Robinson despite facing backlash from the community. His decision to take on the case highlights the inherent racism and classism present in Maycomb, as well as the courage it takes to challenge these societal norms.
Overall, the intersection of race and class in "To Kill a Mockingbird" illuminates the pervasive impact of racism and discrimination on individuals and communities. The characters in the novel grapple with these issues in various ways, ultimately showcasing the complexities of prejudice and the importance of empathy and compassion in overcoming them.