Provide 3 direct quotes that support the theme of to Kill a Mockingbird
1) "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it." - Atticus Finch
This quote emphasizes the theme of empathy and understanding in To Kill a Mockingbird. Atticus is teaching his children the importance of seeing things from others' perspectives in order to truly understand them and treat them with compassion.
2) "Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don't eat up people's gardens, don't nest in corncribs, they don't do one thing but sing their hearts out for us." - Miss Maudie Atkinson
This quote represents the theme of innocence and the importance of protecting the vulnerable. Just as it would be a sin to kill a mockingbird that brings joy and harm, it is unjust to harm innocent individuals like Tom Robinson who are gentle and do no harm to society.
3) "I’d rather you shot at tin cans in the backyard, but I know you’ll go after birds. Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird." - Atticus Finch
Atticus' words highlight the theme of injustice and the need to protect those who are unjustly targeted. The mockingbird symbolizes innocence and goodness, and Atticus is teaching his children the moral obligation to defend and respect the innocent, even in the face of prejudice and discrimination.