Okay, so a mockingbird is used to symbolize someone innocent as in Lee's theme, don't kill mockingbirds aka don't kill the innocent. This is what it says on Sparknotes. It also says that Boo Radley is considered a mockingbird. I'm a little confused as to why.

I kind of thought he was a mockingbird because all he ever does is stay at home all day and yet people make up stories about him and are afraid of him, etc. This, I think, would qualify him innocent like a mockingbird. However, in the beginning it says he was in a gang and did bad stuff then, so I'm not sure, not to mention he drove scissors up his father's leg.

What do you guys think?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/To_Kill_a_Mockingbird/Characters

For some additional ideas, go to this webpage and use the Find feature (press Ctrl and F) to find instances of the word mockingbird -- keep pressing Next in the little window that shows up until you come across an interesting idea. There are more than one character in this book who could be considered 'mockingbirds.'

=)

when i read the book i thought that was a rumor. He is kinda like a mockingbird cuz he was nice to scout and jem, and stayed inside pretty much all the time, so then he cant get in trouble in the real world

ok im really good at english and understood this book really well. Boo Radley is innocent. HIm being in a gang was a rumor, and i don't reslly remeber why he stabbed his dad in the leg, but i remember it was a good reason...yes he is innocent..
FYI: sparknotes sometimes has wrong information. THey're not very accurate. Trust me.

Thank you everyone! :)

The question here revolves around the symbolism of Boo Radley as a mockingbird in the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. While the user has shared their own interpretation and thoughts on the matter, they are still confused as to why Boo Radley could be considered a mockingbird. To address this confusion and provide a more comprehensive answer, let's explore the concept of the mockingbird symbol and the character of Boo Radley in more detail.

In the novel, the mockingbird is used as a symbol of innocence and goodness. Harper Lee suggests that it is a sin to harm or kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but provide joy and beauty through their songs. This symbolic meaning is conveyed through the character of Tom Robinson, who is unjustly accused of a crime he did not commit, and later killed.

Similarly, Boo Radley, while initially depicted as a mysterious and potentially dangerous figure, is revealed to be a kind-hearted and innocent individual as the story unfolds. Boo Radley is socially isolated and confined to his house by his own choice, largely due to the judgment and prejudice of the community. Despite the rumors and misinformation surrounding his past actions, the reader discovers that Boo Radley is ultimately a warm and caring person.

The user also mentions instances where Boo Radley was involved in negative actions. It's important to note that these instances, such as the rumor of him being in a gang or injuring his father, are not directly substantiated in the story. They are merely hearsay and part of the town's gossip, which can often be unreliable and misleading.

To further explore the idea of Boo Radley as a mockingbird, you can refer to the characters section on the Wikipedia page provided. By using the Find feature (Ctrl + F) and searching for the word "mockingbird," you will find instances where different characters are considered to fulfill the symbolic role of a mockingbird. This additional information might help you gain a broader perspective on the various interpretations of the mockingbird symbol within the novel.

It's worth noting that interpretations of literature can vary, and different readers may have different perspectives on the symbolism and meaning behind certain characters. While Sparknotes can be a helpful resource, it's always a good idea to critically evaluate information from various sources to form a well-rounded understanding.

Thank you for your insights, and I hope this explanation helps clarify why Boo Radley can be seen as a mockingbird in "To Kill a Mockingbird."