The Language of "To Kill a Mockingbird" and Its Reflection of Historical and Cultural Surroundings
Harper Lee’s novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," published in 1960, captures the language and culture of the American South during the 1930s. Through her characters and their dialogue, Lee reveals the historical context of racial tension and social injustice. The language used in the book indicates not only the time period but also the cultural norms that influenced how people thought and behaved.
One important way that Lee showcases these cultural surroundings is through the use of dialect. The characters speak in a way that reflects their Southern backgrounds. For example, when Scout Finch, the narrator, describes her friend Dill, she says, “Dill was not quite four years old when he first showed up in Meridian.” This simple statement shows how children talk in a straightforward way, representing childhood innocence. However, the way the adults speak often reveals deeper issues. For example, when Atticus Finch addresses the court, he uses formal language: "This case is based on a simple dull reason." This reflects the seriousness of the situation, as well as the respect for the judicial system, which was a critical part of society at that time.
Lee also uses language to highlight the theme of racism. When the character Tom Robinson is unjustly accused of raping a white woman, the trial's language is filled with prejudice and bias. The prosecutor, Mr. Gilmer, refers to Tom as "boy" instead of using his name, which diminishes Tom’s identity and emphasizes the racial hierarchy present in the South. This language indicates a cultural environment where racial discrimination was commonplace and accepted.
Another aspect of language in the book is the innocence of childhood, contrasted with the harsh realities of adult issues. Scout's observations are often naive, as when she innocently asks, "Atticus, are we going to win?" This reflects not only her innocence but also the broader societal conflicts happening around her. Her father, Atticus, represents morality and justice in a flawed world. His calm and reasoned language in teaching Scout about empathy is another strong indication of the cultural values that Lee wished to highlight.
In conclusion, the language in "To Kill a Mockingbird" provides a window into the historical and cultural surroundings of the time. Through dialect, courtroom rhetoric, and the innocent perspective of a child, Harper Lee effectively communicates the struggles against racial injustice and the importance of moral integrity. The way characters speak not only reflects their identities but also acts as a mirror to the social norms of the 1930s in America.