Sunday, November 11, 2012

How do Scout and Jem lose their innocence in the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird"?

TKAM is a "coming of age" story, meaning that in its pages, the main character reaches a point of understanding or maturity. In this case, Scout and Jem come to an understanding of society's darker side.

Because they become exposed to the goings-on surrounding Tom Robinson's trial and the racially-motivated conflicts that ensue as a result, both characters are forced to learn very adult lessons.

What's more, when the children are attacked by Bob Ewell, Scout loses the perception that all adults are kind and competent toward children. The idea that an adult would attack a child shatters some of her naivete as she learns this lesson.

In the end, Scout and Jem have both made many "real-world" realizations, and this is what causes their loss of childlike innocence in the novel.

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