Sexism In To Kill A Mockingbird

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter” was once said by Martin Luther King Jr. As a person who has inspired many acts of justice, Dr. King always worked hard towards the litigation of African-American rights. He lead a very respectable life, with many admirers and, unfortunately, enemies. Dr. King was a man who fought battles that he knew others were not willing to fight, and constantly defended his position. After his success in the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Dr. King went on to fight for justices such as greate rblack employment. Nevertheless, he was killed for his efforts regarding his defenses of controversial topics. Like Dr. King’s endeavors for justice, in To Kill A Mockingbird, Harper …show more content…
For instance, after Scout and Jem witness the shocking results of Tom Robinson’s trial, they start questioning the uniformity of the people sitting in the jury seats. “‘Miss Maudie can’t serve on a jury because she is a woman.’[said Atticus]... ‘You mean women in Alabama can’t [serve on juries]?’ [Scout] was indignant” (296). In this moment, Scout’s incredulity and innocence are shown as she tackles this issue of the exclusion of women (and their ideas) in Alabama’s court system. Scout and Jem talk about attempting to change this law in Alabama. Similarly, Aunt Alexandra is constantly trying to get Scout into wearing dresses like ‘most girls’. While talking with the white ladies of Maycomb, she confesses that she still wears pants under her dress because it makes her feel more secure, much to the horror of the ladies. “‘Where are your britches today?’ [asked Miss Maudie] ‘Under my dress.’ [said Scout]... [Scout] realized [her] mistake” (307). The stereotypes facing Scout revolving her usage of britches is quite large. She is constantly reminded by Aunt Alexandra that it is improper for a female to wear pants, or for a girl to play tough outdoor games. Scout is faced with a rather daunting thought throughout the book: am I even ladylike? She struggles with Maycomb’s sexist views on the position of women from wearing dresses, to having friends over for tea. Likewise, Scout faces ignorant sexist remarks from her own brother while planning on seeing Boo Radley with him and Dill. “‘Why don’t you go home Scout?’ [asked Jem]... ‘shut your trap or go home- I declare to the Lord you’re getting more like a girl every single day!’’ (68-69). Here we see a curious Scout asking questions of their plans only to find that her voice is not welcome. She is insulted at being reduced to a girl. There is true ignorance in Jem’s words for he feels as if a girl should either be silent, or not there. Over

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