Sunday, August 2, 2009

What are some significant lessons that Jem and Scout learn in chapters 13 and 14 of To Kill a Mockingbird?

In Chapter 13, Aunt Alexandra moves into the Finch residence. Scout comments that Alexandra is obsessed with heredity and learns about her theory regarding family background. Alexandra believes the longer a family has lived on a plot of land, the finer that family is. Scout becomes aware of Maycomb's caste system, and Alexandra convinces Atticus to teach Jem and Scout about their family background. Atticus attempts to explain to Jem and Scout their family's proud history, but gives up because he finds it ridiculous. Scout and Jem learn the important life lesson that people should not judge each other based on their family's history, and individuals should value each other based on merit.


In Chapter 14, Alexandra attempts to convince Atticus to fire Calpurnia, but Atticus defends Cal's character. Jem also upsets Scout by telling her to stop antagonizing Aunt Alexandra, and Scout punches him in the face. After their scuffle, Scout steps on something as she walks by her bed, which turns out to be Dill, who ran away from home. Atticus allows Dill to spend the night, and Dill explains to Scout the real reason why he ran away. Throughout this chapter, Jem learns that it is not wise to be authoritative with his younger sister and Scout learns the importance of a loving family after listening to Dill's sad situation.

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