To kill a mocking bird 2

Essay by EssaySwap ContributorHigh School, 10th grade February 2008

download word file, 3 pages 4.0

In literature, discrimantion is oftne used as a theme to bring people aware to the differnt types of discrimantion and how they affect people around us. In Haper Less novel To Kill A Mockingbird, it is show how racism, sexism and classism affect people of all ages.

Brought into the Finch house to teach and act as a female role model for Scout, Aunt Alexandra tries to make the black servant, Calpurnia, look bad. For Aunt Alexandra, Calpurnia would not be a good role model for the young Scout, not becuase she is unlady like, but becuse she is black. Right when Aunt Alexandra arrives she commands power over Calpurnia." "Put my bag in the front bedroom, Calpurnia," was the first thing Aunt Alexandra said" (pg. 127) As soon as she arrives it is understood the lack of respect that she has for Calpurnia. Never once does she say "please" or "thank you" just a command that must be followed.

Calpurnia was the authority and mother figure for Scout as long as she can remember and this is the first time she has ever seen her in such a low power position. Calpurnia had become a part of the Finch family by her years of service and love for the Finch Children. Aunt Alexandra sees this closeness between them and doesn't like the bond that the family has with her. In Aunt Alexandra's mind, any relationship with a black person that is more then employer and employee causes problems in the town of Maycomb. She wants to get rid of the servant and talks to Atticus about it. "And don't try and get around it. You've got to face it sooner or later and it might as well be tonight. We don't need her now." (pg. 157) Aunt Alexandra...