I think one of the biggest fears demonstrated in the novel
was a prominent fear for this time period in America's history - this is the fear of
things that are different.
No only is the book full of
racism - but there is prejudice in general for all things different. Consider everyone
who is gossiped about, avoided, and unfairly judged outside of the black characters.
First, there is Boo Radley (and the Radley family). They are considered "weird"
because they are not social - they don't serve lemonade on their porch on Sunday
afternoons. Therefore, something bad must be going on inside that house. Then, there's
Dolphus Raymond - who is a landowner and should be highly respected in the town, but
because of the lifestyle he chooses (to live among black people like equals) he must
pretend to be the town drunk. Also, there are the people who are looked down upon
because of class distinction. Certainly the Ewells, who are considered "trash" - do not
receive any respect. They aren't even made to follow societal "rules" like keeping
their kids in school. The Cunninghams, though honest farmers, are treated differently
than the children of the professional class. Atticus shows Mr. Cunningham respect and
patience - but he is one of a few - evidenced by Mr. Cunningham's quiet and unobtrusive
ways around town.
There is a general air of intolerance in
the town - and not necessarily intolerance for things that are wrong - only things that
are different. This intolerance stems directly from fear. Even in the educated and
somewhat tolerant Finch household, Aunt Alexandria is furious about the fact that
Calpurnia took the children to her church. Even Alexandria is, to
an extent, afraid of things she does not understand.
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