To Kill A Mockingbird Rhetorical Analysis

In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, the author uses irony, conflict and tone to illustrate that people are quick to bicker, but it takes courage to strike back with poise. The author juxtaposes the ‘godly’ women of Maycomb county who pity the troubled spirits around them with the reality of them committing the flaws that they frown upon to illustrate that it is difficult to be composed when one’s bravery is tempted by anger. For example, when Mrs. Merriweather is discussing with the other ladies about the affairs of their Northern neighbors and the wrong doings that accompany them, she states that the northerners are “hypocrites...born hypocrites… at least we don’t have that sin on our shoulders down here” (234). The ladies

Merriweather's succinct disagreement, Lee exemplifies Scout’s understanding of not needing her fists to fight back, for equanimity is a much more effective yet strenuous undertaking. In addition, when the ladies are belittling the townspeople Maudie sits silently, not wishing to partake in the gossip, but when they discuss Atticus’ faults, she snaps and then recomposes herself: “She said no more...Something had made her deeply angry, and her gray eyes were as cold as her voice” (233). Miss Maudie is so fed up with sitting silently and listening to the gossip mongers that she finally snaps and speaks out, but not before catching herself prior to saying something she would regret. This serves as a teaching moment for Scout because she realizes and begins to understand that bickering is inevitable, but it is how one approaches the situation that defines their character and strengthens their fortitude. Likewise, after Miss Maudie’s outburst, Alexandra silently thanks her; Maudie, knowing that she was about to break as well, knew it was in best of interest of their conflicting desires to speak out in favor of both of them: “Aunt Alexandra stepped back. She gave Miss Maudie a look of pure gratitude..here was Aunty silently thanking her for something” (233). In the quick glance that is shared between Miss Maudie and Aunt Alexandra, so much is said; Alexandra is thanking Maudie for standing up for her brother knowing that she could not herself. Without saying anything, they both express what is on their mind in an impassive manner which is something that Scout finds difficulty doing; it develops in her a better perception of what can be done with her actions and words instead of her fists. People will constantly attempt to provoke oneself and it becomes more and more difficult to keep one’s level-headedness, it takes experiences to master this, but altercations will always arise and it is how one responds that shapes their