What transgressions do the main characters commit in to kill a Mockingbird and how does this affect the relationship with other characters in the story?
In "To Kill a Mockingbird," several main characters commit transgressions that shape their relationships with others in the story. Here are some examples:
1. Atticus Finch: Though widely admired for his moral compass and strong sense of justice, Atticus commits a transgression in the eyes of some Maycomb residents by defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. This decision creates tension and leads to a strained relationship with many white members of the community who hold racist beliefs.
2. Scout Finch: As the protagonist and narrator, Scout often finds herself in trouble due to her curiosity and outspokenness. She unwittingly embarrasses her teacher Miss Caroline on her first day of school and gets into fights with other children, including her cousin Francis. This affects Scout's relationship with her classmates and extends to the community's perception of her family.
3. Jem Finch: Scout's older brother, Jem, commits a transgression by venturing onto the Radley property, against the wishes of their reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley. This ultimately attracts the ire of Boo's brother, Nathan Radley, and sparks fear and fascination from the rest of the town. Jem's actions and the subsequent repercussions influence his relationship with Boo Radley and the town's perception of him.
4. Boo Radley: Although Boo himself does not commit any overt transgressions, his past actions and the rumors surrounding him result in a strained relationship with the residents of Maycomb. Boo's isolation and mysterious behavior lead to fear and prejudice, causing the townspeople to make false assumptions about him.
5. Bob Ewell: The antagonist of the story, Bob Ewell commits multiple transgressions, including falsely accusing Tom Robinson of and attempting to harm Scout and Jem. These actions reflect his racist and vengeful nature, and his transgressions heighten the tension between him, the Finch family, and the community at large.
Overall, the transgressions committed by the main characters in "To Kill a Mockingbird" shape their relationships with others, often leading to tension, fear, prejudice, and a sense of disillusionment within the community. It also serves to highlight the themes of racism, prejudice, and the consequences of one's actions.