To Kill A Mockingbird Discussion Questions:
On Tuesday November 25, 2014 we will have a discussion of the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, in class. In order to prepare for this discussion please take notes on the following topics. Notes should include quotes and references to the text with your commentary. Note: some of these questions ask for your opinion, make sure you support your opinions with examples and details from the text.
- Scout ages two years—from six to eight—over the course of Lee's novel, which is narrated from her perspective as an adult. Adult readers may focus so much on the novel's politics that they may neglect the coming-of-age story. How does Scout come of age in the course of her narrative?Did you find the account her narrator provides believable?
- To Kill a Mockingbird has been challenged repeatedly by the political left and right, who have sought to remove it from libraries for its portrayal of conflict between children and adults; speech; references to sex, the supernatural, and witchcraft; and the unfavourable presentation of blacks. Did you find any of those elements especially troubling, persuasive, or insightful? Would you recommend this novel or challenge it?
- In the novel there are villainous figures of varying degrees. Some are benign, some are more sinister. What are the most apparent examples of villainy in the book? What are some of the more subtle examples? Who are the real villains?
- One of the many reasons behind the enduring popularity ofTo Kill a Mockingbird’ is its many compelling themes. What are the themes in the book that are most important?
- What elements of this novel did you find funny, memorable, or inspiring? Are there any characters whose beliefs or actions impressed or surprised you? Did any events lead you to revisit childhood memories or see them in a new light?
- List at least two questions you would like to bring up in our discussion of the novel. Questions should be open ended to promote discussion.