How Does Boo Radley Represent Innocence

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The Mockingbird is a significant symbol in To Kill A Mockingbird because it represents innocence. Tom Robinson and Boo Radley both represent this innocence throughout the novel. Tom Robinson represents the innocence of a Mockingbird through being accused of a crime he never committed. Scout and Jem also represent the innocence of childhood and not fully understanding until deep into the book. Examples of heir childish ways earlier in the book would be Scout wanting to squish the Roly Poly and Jem not coming down from the Tree House because Atticus refuses to play football for the Methodists with the other dads in Maycomb. Arthur “Boo” Radley is a sure symbol of innocence because of him saving both Scout and Jem from being murdered, though he …show more content…
After Scout and Jem got attacked by Bob Ewell, Atticus and Sheriff Tate are discussing what and how Mr. Ewell was killed. As they begin to discuss who should be punished, Mr. Tate makes it certain that no one will be punished as he states, “Let the dead bury the dead this time, Mr. Finch.”(Lee 369) He is referring back to when Tom Robinson was shot dead and now the one who attacked him, Bob Ewell, is dead by a knife between the ribs. Sheriff Tate knew that putting Mr. Radley on trial, it would be considered a sin. Scout also understood this when saying, “Well, it’d be sort of like shootin’ a mockingbird, wouldn't it?”(Lee 370) Atticus Finch makes it clear to the kids when they get their first guns that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird, though you can shoot all the bluejays desired. Mockingbirds represent the innocence and injustice, as the Bluejay represents the bullies and/or the guilty. He makes it clear when saying, “I'd rather you shoot at tin cans in the back yard, but I know you'll go after birds. Shoot all the Bluejays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird.”(Lee