Character Analysis: Scout Finch in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'

“Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit ‘em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” - Atticus Finch

Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ (1960) has remained a well-loved and continuously studied piece of literature since its publication. The book follows the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama during the Great Depression. Scout’s journey through the complex realities of her community, and the events surrounding her father, Atticus Finch’s, defense of a black man accused of raping a white woman, provide readers with a nuanced look at themes of racism, morality, and empathy. In this character analysis, we’ll delve deeper into the character of Scout Finch, examining her growth and development throughout the novel, and how it ties into the book’s greater themes.

Scout: An Innocent Perspective

Scout Finch, fully named Jean Louise Finch, is the protagonist and narrator of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. We see the events of the story through her eyes, as she recounts them from the perspective of an adult looking back on her childhood. This hindsight allows the adult Jean Louise to add depth and understanding to the more complex aspects of the story while still maintaining the innocence and curiosity of her youth.

Scout’s innocence is essential to the novel. It provides a fresh and unjaded lens through which we explore the themes of racial injustice and moral growth in Maycomb. Her perspective enables the reader to bear witness to the subtle injustices within her society and cultivates a sense of empathy within her, and in turn, the reader.

Bonds and Connections: Scout and her Family

Throughout the novel, we see Scout’s relationship with her family, specifically her brother Jem and her father Atticus, as the primary influence on her growth and development. Through their interactions, Jem and Atticus teach Scout essential lessons about empathy, morality, and respect.

Jem: Sibling Rivalry and Support

Scout’s relationship with her brother Jem is marked by sibling competition and occasional teasing. Despite their rivalry, Jem serves as a protective figure for Scout, helping her navigate the trials of childhood and adolescence. He often provides insight into the social dynamics within Maycomb, supporting Scout’s understanding of the town’s complexities.

Atticus: Moral Compass and Parental Role Model

Atticus, arguably the most essential character in shaping Scout’s development, serves as a moral compass and role model for both Scout and Jem. A lawyer and father, Atticus is unwavering in his convictions and his moral integrity, instilling these values in his children. In defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman, Atticus teaches Scout about the importance of standing up for justice and equality, even in the face of adversity.

It is through Atticus that Scout learns the invaluable lesson of empathy: to see the world through another person’s perspective. This understanding serves as the foundation for her moral growth and the cultivation of empathy seen throughout the novel.

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” - Atticus Finch

Trials and Growth: Coming of Age

As the novel unfolds, Scout faces numerous challenges, both external and internal, that push her to mature as a person. Many of these conflicts stem from her struggle to accept the prejudices and injustices present in her community. However, fueled by her innocence and the lessons imparted by her father, Scout perseveres and grows as an individual.

A prime example of her growth is seen in Scout’s interactions with Boo Radley, a reclusive and enigmatic figure in Maycomb. Initially, Scout and Jem, motivated by fear and curiosity, attempt to infiltrate Boo’s home and gain a better understanding of their mysterious neighbor. Eventually, through various encounters and acts of kindness from Boo, Scout comes to understand and appreciate the person behind the rumors, embodying the empathy her father sought to instill in her.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Scout Finch

Scout Finch serves as a beacon of innocence and growth in Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. As we follow Scout’s journey from a naive child to a more mature and morally grounded young lady, she enables readers to engage with the complex issues of racial injustice, morality, and empathy in a deep and meaningful way.

Through her experiences and the guidance of her family, especially her father Atticus, Scout embodies the powerful message that it is important to stand up for one’s beliefs and consider the world from the perspective of others. The lessons learned through her development remain relevant today and ensure the enduring appeal and impact of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading or listening to Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, we highly encourage you to do so. As you dive into the story and watch Scout Finch grow and learn, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself questioning and growing alongside her.