“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are..." page 182 In this scene, Atticus is arguing with Alexandria about Calpurnia. Atticus says that Calpurnia is a member of the family and she doesn't have to go anywhere. Alexandria thinks that Calpurnia is just some lady who Atticus hired to keep around the house to deal with Scout and Jem when they were kids and having her stay is just unnecessary. I agree with Atticus because after staying with the Finch's for such a long time and being so involved in their lives, she has earned a place in their family. This relates to the theme of the importance of family. Family isn't just someone who is related to you by blood, family is someone who will always be in your heart and will never get left behind. I think that the idea of "you can't pick your family," isn't accurate because anyone can be a part of your family.
I completely agree Max. After all the years Calpurnia has spent with the kids and Atticus she definitely is part of the family. She is also a strong femal figure in Scout's life that she needs.
I agree 100%. Calpurnia is as much of a family member as Alexandra is in the Atticus's house. She needs to understand that just because Cal is black does not mean that Alexandra is better than her.
Max could not have stated this better. Calpurnia has spent so much time with the kids that she is almost like a mother to them. It is not Aunt Alexandra's decision to come and start determining whether people should stay or go. She teaches Jem and Scout very valuable lessons that will server them good in the future.
I completely agree. Calpurnia is the closest thing Jem and Scout have to a mother and she was a huge part in their raising. Aunt Alexandra simply does not understand how important Cal is to the family. It is interesting how you brought up the idea that the saying you cannot pick you family is inaccurate. I agree because although you are stuck with the family you are born into the people you bring into your life and make a part of the family are just as important as those related by blood.
Very well said Maxwell. Calpurnia is even more of a family member than Alexandra and I think that Alexandra needs to understand that. She has been with Finches for not too long and thinks she's the alpha dog.
I love the way you said a family member isn't only measured by the relationship with blood, but it is earned in love. I agree completely that Cal has earned a spot in the Finch family.
I completely agree with your comments. You could not have been more right when you said that Alexandra thinks Calpurnia is just somebody that Atticus hired to deal with Scout and Jem, when really she is practically a member of the Finch family even if she isn't related by blood.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from having her brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
In this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are having an argument about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra says that they have had Cal for long enough and it is time to let her go, but Atticus refuses to back down on this one and insists that Calpurnia does nothing but good for the kids and the family.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this situation. While I have never had a nanny, many of my friends had and still do have nannies even if they don’t need one anymore. After having someone live with you for years they become part of the family and even if they are not necessary they are someone you love. This must be even more extreme for Jem and Scout considering that their mother passed away when they were young.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. Clearly, Calpurnia is a loved one and a part of the family. Atticus knows this and realizes that even though the kids are growing up they love Cal. He also understands that after all of Cal’s years of great work, she deserves to decide when she leaves and stay as long as she wants to, even if she isn’t needed to watch over Jem and Scout anymore.
I think that Cal is like a mother to them and getting rid of her would hurt them more than help them. Alexandra thinks that Jem and Scout would grow up more without her, but I feel that they would be upset and miss her so much that they wouldn't know what to do. She guides them often throughout the book and the children would be lost without her.
I agree with both you and Sophia. The house would not be the same without Calpurinia. She is not just their nanny but really apart of the family. She is like a mother figure to Scout and Jem. She always looks out for them and she really loves them and they really love her. Maybe Aunt Alexandra wanted Cal to leave because she wants to be the mother figure now that she is living with them and felt threatened by Calpurnia and how much the kids love her.
I strongly agree with you Sam because Calpurnia has always been there for Scout and Jem and is more of a mother than Aunt Alexandra. Without Calpurnia in the household, both Jem and Scout could do bad things and not behave or listen to their elders.
“The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is---they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a roomful of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.” Middle of page 191.
In this scene Dill has returned to Maycomb, and tells Scout the real reason real reason why he left his parents. It really had nothing to do with Dill being bound in chains to be left to die.
In our world today, there are many wealthy kids such as Dill who are not as happy as someone of a lower class. Children can be provided with every toy, device, or book, but nothing can replace time spent with family. By shooing kids away with these distractions, they can feel unwanted, and more importantly, they don't have anyone to express their feelings with. In extreme cases, the kid may run away, but more commonly they will make silly decisions in order to get attention.
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage and the importance of family. Although Dill had all the toys and books he could have dreamt of, the one thing he lacked was a family that he could spend quality time with. The situation was so dire, that he was able to build up the courage to wander two miles out of Meridian, travel all over Mississippi, and walk from Abbott County to Maycomb all by himself. Not only does this show us the importance of family, and courage, but it teaches that money does not always buy happiness.
I really liked your quote, because I think many kids can relate to it. Sometimes parents can't be with their kids and so they fill that void with gifts and toys to try to make up for it. Dill also makes up crazy stories about his family to make them seem more interesting and I feel like he tries to pretend that he's okay or that he doesn't care about not getting attention.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good—and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
In this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are arguing about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra thinks that Calpurnia has been there long enough and that they should let her go. But Atticus says that Calpurnia doesn’t do anything else but good things for the kids and that, that is why Calpurnia has to stay.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this argument. Even though I have not had a nanny, I can tell that they should be apart of your family if they have been there with you for years, then they should definitely be apart of your family. This is probably much more serious in Jem and Scouts situation because their mother had passed away when they were young so Calpurnia must be like a mother for them since she has been there for them over the years.
This scene has to do with the importance of home and family for sure. Obviously Calpurnia is loved and apart of their family. Atticus understands this and knows that the kids love Calpurnia very much. Also he knows that Calpurnia has done amazing work, so if anything she should be the one to decide when she leaves and she should decide how long she stays.
I completely agree with you, Tyler. Calpurnia is such an important person and has such an effect on Jem and Scout. She is very influential to this family. It makes you wonder, how different would Scout and Jem be without Calpurnia?
I agree with you, Tyler. Speaking from personal memory, I had a live in nanny for a good amount of time when I was younger. She was every bit a part of my family as my mom and dad. Atticus is right to stand up for Calpurnia and it is amazing how he doesn't have any bit of racism in him.
I strongly agree with all of you. Calpurnia has a large impact on the children and who they are. I believe that it is a great thing that her skin is a different color than theirs. Because of this, Scout and Jem know that racism is wrong. Calpurnia is black and they know that she is a very good person. Her skin color does not change their opinion about her.
I agree with you Tyler, Calpurnia has acted as a mother figure for Scout and Jem where they did not have one. She has been hard on them like a mother would and has raised them as her own. She truly cares for them and proves this through her actions. It is upsetting that Aunt Alexandria would try to take that away from the kids.
“She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183
In this scene Atticus is trying to convince Aunt Alexandra that Calpurnia should stay part of the family. While Aunt Alexandra is trying to say that they do not need Calpurnia there anymore. Atticus is standing up to Aunt Alexandra because he knows how important Calpurnia is to the family. Scout is listening to this conversation between Atticus and Aunt Alexandra.
I strongly agree with Atticus and his decision to keep Calpurnia as a part of the family. I have a friend who had a nanny and I know that she was very close to the family. She lived in the house and they got to be so close. She cared for him deeply and he loved her as if she was a really close relative. Its almost as if she was another mother to him and she was a huge part of his childhood. That situation must be so much greater for Scout and Jem because Calpurnia is exactly like a mother for them. Calpurnia is also very influential in Scout and Jem's development into young adults.
This scene has a lot to do with the importance of home and family. Atticus sticks by his decision to keep Calpurnia as a part of the family. Calpurnia is a mother figure to both Scout and Jem and they have grown so close to Calpurnia. Without Calpurnia Scout and Jem would not be who they are today because Calpurnia had such a big effect in their lives. She is very important to this family and she is a great example of how important family is to Scout and Jem.
I agree with you 100%, Danny. Calpurnia has has such a huge impact on Scout and Jem's lives, and to take that away from them, is like taking their mother wasy from them again. Also, Aunt Alexandra shouldn't be making decisions for the family, especially if everyone else wants Calpurnia to stay.
I agree with both of you. I think it is very important to realize without Calpurnia, Jem and Scout would most likely be different people. I also like how Tyler said it is like taking a mother away. She has acted as there mother for a very long time and I don't think that should be taken away from the kids ever. I know a friend who has a nanny and she is a big part of those kids life. Great point.
“ Dill, you ain’t telling me right---your folks couldn’t do without you. Middle of page 191
In this scene Scout is telling Dill that his parents love him and couldn’t do anything without him. Before Scout tells this to Dill, he had explained why he ran away and came back to Maycomb. Dill said that his dad didn’t do anything. His dad was supposed to build a boat with him and never started the project. Dill ran to a place he was most comfortable and where he had friends and was most happy.
I know that I couldn’t do anything without my parents or sister. I would have no where to turn to, nowhere to get advice or help from. If I was young at this time, the skills i’d learn with my parents wouldn’t be known or wouldn’t be done. Parents are inspirational. Little kids usually get excited about a parents job, and this inspires what you want to be when you’d grow up. But, I wouldn’t know what i’d want to do. Without family you wouldn’t get help, or help to achieve your goals. As much as you need your parents they also need you. This quote that Scout says tells Dill that his parents need him, and he needs them. This quote summarizes how all families feel about each other.
The importance of family really comes alive in this quote. to achieve great things your family always has your back. You have somewhere to turn to when you’re feeling lost. They give you the courage to speak your mind. They tell you to not give up and try again. That is what family is for. They hold you up and help you fight for what you want to achieve and accomplish. In this quote Dill needs his family and they need him, even if he doesn’t realize it.
I agree with you because I believe that Dill needs to learn that everybody influences each other. One cannot be present and have no effect. It's like being in an elevator. Even if one doesn't realize it, when somebody gets on, everybody moves over for them. A family must function together and works much better with all it's pieces at once.
I completely agree with your them to text paragraph. Dill had nobody to lean on when he was feeling lost. This created a sense of loneliness in his life. In my opinion, this was a huge factor that prompted Dill to runaway to his friends. With Scout and Jem, he would be able to enjoy life with other people rather than just playing toys.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Chapter 14 Page 183
In this quote from the story, Atticus is speaking to Aunt Alexandra about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra insists that the family no longer needs her, and Atticus responds by saying that Cal can stay as long as she wants. Atticus thinks that Cal has helped to shape Jem and Scout to become better people and she teaches them her morals and values. Unlike a lot of other colored people, Cal doesn’t humor the kids, and she treats them like adults. Cal is basically a member of the family, and she is a mother figure for Scout and Jem.
Just like Calpurnia, I have a babysitter who has been working with my family for nearly 10 years. She has seen all 3 children in my family grow and mature. If it weren’t for her, I don’t think I would be the person I am today. She has helped to teach me the importance that values and morals play in everyday life. She is practically a second mother for me.
The overarching theme of importance of home and family is incorporated into this scene. Atticus compares Calpurnia to a mother and he says that she has helped to raise Jem and Scout. Family members are people that you can rely on during times of weakness and strength, and that is exactly what Cal is. Even though she isn’t a blood relative, there is something to be said about the impact she has had on the Finch family’s life, specifically Jem and Scout.
Jem and Scout lost their mother at such a young age, and Atticus is constantly working. If Calpurnia wasn't around, do you think that Jem and Scout would have grown up the same way? Why or why not?
Unquestionably, I believe the absense of Calpurnia would have drastically impacted the entire Finch family. For example, if Calpurnia wasn't present, Scout, in particular, could be neglected by a guardian after growing up with a single, working father. This change in Scout would influence Jem and Atticus, and in turn, would influence the rest of the Finches including Alexandra, Francis, and Jack. A change in one person, I believe, can influence everybody they come in contact with.
“Let’s get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house, you will do as she tells you.”
In this scene, Atticus explains this to Scout after she backtalks her Aunt Alexandra when Aunt Alexandra tells her she can’t go see Calpurnia. Scout was very rude to her, and Atticus wants her to realize how she should be acting. He wants her to respect her aunt.
I think both parties were at fault here. Scout was exceedingly rude to Aunt Alexandra saying, basically, that Aunt Alexandra has no power over Scout. Scout refuses to accept that Aunt Alexandra has control of her, even though Atticus disagrees. Aunt Alexandra, on the other hand, should not have told her so uncompromisingly that she could not go to Calpurnia’s. She was, however, only doing what she thought best for Scout. She believed seeing Calpurnia would be disadvantageous to Scout’s manners and reputation. Aunt Alexandra was only looking out for Scout. Ultimately, both Scout and Aunt Alexandra must learn to tolerate each other and to understand each other’s will.
Family is extremely important to Scout, but unfortunately, she doesn’t consider Aunt Alexandra to be a real part of her family. She doesn’t respect Aunt Alexandra like she respects Atticus or Jem, which causes her to dishonor Aunt Alexandra occasionally. Atticus realizes how much Aunt Alexandra is doing and her importance, however. He chastises Scout on manners and helps her to value Aunt Alexandra’s presence. This shows the importance of family member’s actions both when Atticus values Alexandra and when Aunt Alexandra tries to keep Scout safe in her opinion. (Pg. 181-182, Paragraph 16)
I agree with the action of Atticus in this scene. Scout needs to understand that there are plenty of elders that you may not like in your lifetime, but they have learned from their mistakes, and matured in the process. Although some of the responses to your requests might not be what you want to here, they are able to see possible situations that will arise in the future.
I agree with Atticus' decision in this scene. Since Scout is a child, she needs to learn to respect her elders. It is something every child learns or should learn at a very young age. Even if she doesn't respect them she must listen to what they tell her.
I agree with Atticus' decisions in this scene as well. Scout does not like how her aunt acts towards her, but she must respect her regardless. Aunt Alexandra is only trying to help Scout and Scout needs to acknowledge that. Like Javen said, although Scout may not be hearing the responses she would rather hear from her aunt, her response may help Scout in the future.
Here, Dill explains why he fled from his parents. Jem and Scout had believed that Dill was getting along very well with his new father and was to build a boat with him. Unfortunately, Dill was not pleased with the attention he achieved from his family.
A major issue in America today is that children don’t believe that their parent understand or care about them. Due to tough economic times, many parents are both out to work at the same time during the day leaving their children home alone, sometimes at a young age, for extended periods of time. This is what Dill is feeling. His family may not have economic hardships, but he still doesn’t believe that they really understand him. He thinks they’re too occupied with their books and each other to care enough about him. This reasoning led him to run away from home.
Families shape their kids. Parents and close relatives have the largest influence on children’s development. Dill is feeling neglected which is changing how he acts. He becomes obsessed with bothering people like Boo Radley and he makes up stories about his parents to make himself seem interesting. Jem and Scout, on the other hand, have a great father who teaches them more manners and respectable things to do. These two families show the importance of parents being there for children. They flourish if parents care about their kids, however, children may feel hurt if it seems that parents don’t care. (Pg. 190, Paragraph 11)
I agree with you. I really liked your text to world connection because many kids can relate to it. I also really liked the quote you picked because the scene is very important.
On the bottom of page 182 to the middle of page 183, Atticus is talking to Aunt Alexandra and explaining to her that Calpurnia is someone who has always been apart of there family and she is like a mother to Jem and Scout. Atticus also knows that Calpurnia would do anything to keep the children safe and loves them dearly. Atticus is telling Alexandra that Calpurnia is not someone he hired to take care of the children, she is someone the children need because she has taught them so much and plays a mother role in their lives.
I agree with everything that Atticus is telling Aunt Alexandra. Calpurnia may come from a different family but that does not mean that the children will not be safe under her supervision. It also does not mean that they are not family and that Calpurnia is just there to help out. The Finch household would not be the same without Calpurnia,there would be a member of the family missing. I can relate to this because when I was younger, I had a nanny. She was like apart of the family even though we were not related. She always took care of me and made decisions based off of what my best interest would be. She was like a Grandmother to me. People could not believe how close we were because we were not related. That shows that even though someone may not be related to you that does not mean that they will not love you or keep you safe, no matter where you are.
The theme that this connects to is, the importance of home and family. Even though Scout and Calpurnia are not related by blood, there is a strong connection they have. Family is not someone who shares the same genes, it is someone who loves and cares for you. Calpurnia will always be a member of the family, no matter what.
I agree because Aunt Alexandra seems to be worried more about what other people think more than teaching the children. I think that she wants to be the one to raise the children in her own perfect way than to let another mother figure come in and teach them things that doesn't relate to the Finch family ideas and values.
I agree with you completely, Francesca. The Finch household would be a mess without Calpurnia. Also you shouldn't have to be apart of the same bloodline to be 'family', like you said family is someone who loves and cares for you, and I completely agree with that.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been...she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s pretty good-and another thing, the children love her.” page 183
During this part of the book, Atticus is telling Alexandra that Calpurnia is a wonderful lady who is a great influence on the children. She’s a part of their family and helps out around the house.
In comparison to today, lots of people feel that they can’t trust somebody until they get to know them. Aunt Alexandra doesn’t really know Calpurnia that well yet, so she is hesitant to let Scout go over to her house one afternoon. I feel that Aunt Alexandra is also worried about what the people of Maycomb might say if they hear that Scout went Cal’s house. Calpurnia is the mother figure in Scout’s life and she cares about the wellbeing of Scout. The importance of home and family is significant in this chapter, because Cal has always been in Jem and Scout’s lives. She is family and they all love her very much.
Hi Sophia, I agree with the thought that maybe Aunt Alexandra is worried about what the people in Maycomb will think when they find out that Scout went over to Cal's house. They are already infuriated by the fact that Atticus is doing Tom's case. Aunt Alexandra is very proud of her family name and does not want anyone or anything else tampering with it.
I really like your points that you made, Sophia. I personally like the point when you said that you can't trust someone until you know them. That definitely makes a great text-to-world connection. A great point that you also made would be the effect of them going to her house, and the controversy that would have been made throughout all of Maycomb. Nice job!
“She’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good— and another thing, the children love her.” pg. 183
In this scene, Aunt Alexandra and Atticus are arguing about Calpurnia staying at home. Alexandra is showing racism to Calpurnia because she is not agree with Atticus letting a black woman takes care of the kids. Besides, Atticus think that Calpurnia only does good things for the children and the family.
What I find disturbing is the way Alexandra is thinking about Calpurnia. She has ever lived in Atticus house, much less knows how is Calpurnia’s behavior with the kids. The only thing Alexandra is doing is using a stereotype just because Calpurnia is black. However, I agree with Atticus when he says that Calpurnia has a faithful member of his family so she is going nowhere. Today, many families has someone at their houses to help them with the kids and comes the time when those nannies become part of the family.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. As I mentioned before, nannies like Calpurnia are part of the family because they are so lovely. Therefore, it becomes difficult when they have to leave or when someone is trying to get them out like Alexandra is doing with Calpurnia. Thanks to Atticus she stays home with the kids and continue doing her stuff.
I agree with you Maria . I like how you give an example of today's care takers and how they have an impact on the children even though they aren't really related. I'm truly annoyed with they way Aunt Alexandra thinks about Cal , and I hope she later sees what a good role model she is towards the kids.
“She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183
In this scene of the story Atticus is explaining to Aunt Alexandra that no matter what she says Cal will continue to be part of their family. Atticus explains how Calpurnia has done a good job of raising the children and has been appropriately strict with them even more than a mother would be.
I do not completely understand Aunt Alexandra’s motives for wanting Cal to leave. Calpurnia has been a great help to Atticus and his children and has played an important role in their raising. Cal has made such a great impact on Scout and Jem’s lives it would not be right to kick her out. Therefore, I agree with Atticus in his decision to keep Cal around and standing up to his sister.
This relates to the importance of home and family seeing as how Cal is basically part of the family. Without Scout and Jem’s mother Cal has played almost a mothering role in their family dynamics. She has taught the children many important life lessons and without Cal their family would be faced with many issues.
“... you’ve got to do something about her,” Aunty was saying. “You’ve let things go on too long, Atticus, too long” … “Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. besides, sister, in don’t want you working your head off for us--you’ve no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.” Chapter 14, page 182-183
In these scene, Aunt Alexandra wants to get rid of Calpurnia because she thinks it is not good for Scout to stay where Calpurnia is. She is kind of being racist with Cal. Atticus being the good man he is he defends Calpurnia and tells Aunt Alexandra that she is part of the family and he is not getting rid of her.
I strongly disagree with Aunt Alexandra and Agree with Atticus. Cal has been helping atticus for many years and nobody is going to tell Atticus to get rid of her just because she wants to and because she thinks it is not good for their childrens. I agree with the way Atticus is responding to Aunt Alexandra because he is letting her know that he decides with who their children will be.
The theme that connects with this scene is the importance of home and family. Aunt Alexandra's idea of family is exclusive (kick out those who aren't worthy of being counted in), while Atticus's is inclusive. She arranges family by blood, while Atticus considers affection and loyalty. Basically, it boils down to: do you judge a man (or woman) by his birth—or by his life?
" Well , they stayed gone all the time , and when they were home , even , they'd get off in a room by themselves. " Pg 190
In this scene Dill is telling Scout of his new life with his new family , and how it's not as glorious as he wanted it to be .
If I were Scout I would want to know how Dill truly felt about his new father , and how it feels to be " alone " . Even though his parents were right next door. I know if I were Dill I would be envious of Scout because she has a father that wishes he could be with his children every second of the day . I also wonder what thoughts go through Dill's head when he's all by himself and have no one to talk to.
The theme in this scene is the importance of home and family . I think this because Dill wouldn't have run away if he had the attention and unconditional love he wanted this whole time. He said “ Parents , they kiss you and hug you good night and good mornin’ and goodbye and tell you they love you”. This shows how Dill wishes his parents would treat him .
"Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, you're a easy man, but you have a daughter to think of. A daughter who's growing up." Chapter 14 page 182
In this text, Alexandra is voicing her opinion to Atticus. She feels it is her place to guide Scout. Atticus does not agree with his sister but is respectful to her. The aunt feels Scout is missing a mother figure and believes Atticus works too many hours.
I do not agree with Alexandra because I feel everyone parent has the right to raise their child the way they want to parent them. I believe she is saying it with intention of what is best for Scout.
Often in the real world aunts or uncles will often step in and act like a parent for children that need it. I feel in certain circumstances it is ok for a relative to guide young children. All children need some sort of role model. Often a family member can spend extra time with a child who is missing a parent.
The text to theme connection is the importance of all family members. Aunt Alexandra is a character in the novel that draws contrast to Atticus's easy nature. All though Scout does not enjoy having her aunt live with her, she plays a important role in Scout's life. This will ultimately influence the personality of Scout.
I feel that the ideal mother Scout wants is Calpurnia. I agree that everyone has their ways of raising their children. But Aunt Alexandra came to partially become their mother. To have Jem and Scout know how it feels to be with a mother.
“Didn’t you all build that boat like you wrote you were gonna?” “He just said we would. We never did.”
In this scene, Scout is talking to Dill about his new father. Dill thought that he would be a great addition to his family but he was completely wrong. Dill feels that his parents don’t want his presence.
What I find disturbing is that Dill thought that his father would be there for him, but he has done nothing for his son. Dill explains to Scout that you would think his family is happy but they actually have many issues. This is similar to an event that recently occurred in my life. One of my friends parents just got a divorce. Everyone thought that they were so happy together, so it was surprising when we heard the news. This is proof to what I just mentioned, you can’t judge a book by it’s cover.
The theme that best represents this scene is the importance of home and family. Without a family that cares for you, you may feel unloved and unwanted. Dill feels this way because his parents always buy him things to play with on his own, rather than as a family. He does believe that his parents are good parents, he just wishes that they wanted to spend time with him more often.
Atticus’s voice was even: “Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years, She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have it accept things the way they are...” Page 182
In this scene, Atticus harshly responds to his sister as she brings up firing Cal. Atticus explains to her that Cal is a member of this family, and he later claims that she practically raised his children. He also says she is harder on them than a real mother would be.
Although I have never had a person in my life similar to Calpurnia, I still know many people who have. Being a housekeeper is very common job in this country. Many of my friends, who have had a nanny, would claim the same thing that Atticus is stressing. They say that their family couldn’t function without them, and even say that they raised them like a parent would. It amazes me the trust displayed to hire any person with this job, because they could be anyone. Especially the trust in Atticus, because although the African- Americans were clearly oppressed in this time period, and he hired Cal anyway.
This scene relates to two of the many themes in this novel. One being the true definition of courage, and the other being the importance of family. Atticus shows courage to stand up to his manipulative sister, who bossed him around the whole time she was staying with them. He stands up for Cal claiming she is part of their family. He says that she was like a mother to Scout and Jem.
Very well said. I agree with you Teddy because it does take a lot of courage and also it wouldn't be easy to say goodbye to Calpurnia after all she has been through with the Finch family.
Couldn't agree more! Atticus is a strong, free thinking individual who recognizes the importance of Calpurnia and her role in the family. Not only is she a well worker, but she ties the family together and there would be no stability with the lack of her presence.
Alexandra has no right to barge into their household and attempt to change every aspect of their daily life. Also, she is a bad influence, a racist, and someone who I would not want to be near my kids.
“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. Beside, sister, I don’t want you working your head off for us, you’ve no reason” page 182
In this scene, Atticus and Aunt Alexandra were arguing about Calpurnia. Atticus is explain that Calpurnia doesn't have to go anywhere and she is already a faithful member of family but Aunt Alexandra don’t understand why did Atticus accept Calpurnia as a member of family.
I strongly agree with Atticus because Calpurnia has been helping Atticus to take care of Scout and Jem, and after staying long time with Finch family. Atticus gave Calpurnia a place to her to be and Calpurnia decided to be part of family.
In my opinion, the theme that relate to this is importance of home and family. Family isn’t just some that relate to you by blood, it is also someone you have loved, someone who you can trust you and who will be always there to help you. So even Atticus and Calpurnia isn’t related by blood, Calpurnia is always there to help Atticus with Scout and Jem.
Ch14 “Atticus’s voice was even: ‘Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.’” ch14 p182
Atticus is explaining to Alexandra that Calpurnia is as much a member of the Finch family as she is. Atticus, Jem, and especially scout, all need Calpurnia very much and the arrival of Alexandra will not change that.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this situation. Alexandra has not been living with the Finches for years, and does not have the right to kick out someone who does, based on their skin color. Calpurnia is part of the family, having cared for Scout and Jem since they were very young. I had someone like Calpurnia when I was younger, and I can say that she is very much a part of my family. Since I was 3 months old, I have had someone besides my parents who has wholly cared for me and loved me, and the situation is the same with Calpurnia.
What I find atrocious is the obvious connection between Alexandra’s attitude and the color of Calpurnia’s skin. The theme in this text is the damage done by racism. Alexandra is attempting to replace Calpurnia and believes she is better than Cal based on the fact that Cal is black. Cal has always been there, always will be, and Alexandra can't change that.
Atticus is defending Cal in the same way that he defends Tom. He does not care about race, he just cares about what is right. He is also mirroring his defending of Tom with Cal. He defends Tom from a racist community that wants to kill him, just like he defends Cal from a racist women who wants to kick her out.
“Let’s get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house, you will do as she tells you.” Bottom of page 181 to the top of 182
In this scene, Atticus tells this to Scout after she backtalk's her Aunt Alexandra when Alexandra tells her she can’t go see Calpurnia the following Sunday. Scout was very rude to her, and Atticus wants her to realize how she was acting and he wants her to respect her aunt.
I believe that it was both Scout and Alexandras fault why Atticus said this to Scout. Scout was quite rude to her aunt saying that Aunt Alexandra has no power over Scout. Scout refuses to accept that Aunt Alexandra has control of her, even though this is not entirely true. Although Aunt Alexandra should not have told her so that she could not go to Calpurnia’s house, she was really only doing what she thought was best for Scout. She thought that seeing Calpurnia wouldn’t be good for Scout’s reputation, behavior/manners, etc. Most importantly, Scout and her Aunt Alexandra must learn to tolerate each other and to understand each other’s needs and wants.
The Importance of home and family is very crucial at this point in the book. Scout doesn't see her Aunt Alexandra as a big part of her family because she hasn't really been there for Scout or Jem. She doesn't respect Aunt Alexandra like she respects Atticus or Jem, which causes her to disrespect Alexandra at times. Atticus does realize how much Aunt Alexandra is doing to help out and her importance. He has a chat with Scout on manners and helps her to appreciate Aunt Alexandra’s help. If Scout wants to be a well behaved lady, she must learn to respect her elders and to not argue with them. Even in our world today, a lot of adolescents are not respectful to their parents. They must understand that their parents have gave up many things and tried their best to provide a good life for them.
“‘The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is-they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now-you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a roomful of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.’” Chapter 14 Page 191
In this part of the book, Dill is speaking to Scout about why he ran away from home. He tells her that there was nothing mean about his family, but that they just ignored his presence. They got him a lot of nice things, but they expected him to use them by himself and for the most part, they kept to themselves.
When I was little, I used to play with my older brothers. However, as they grew older, they began to grow out of the games and activities that I liked to do. This left me by myself a lot when I was at home, similarly to how Dill was isolated from his family. I had very nice toys, but when there was nobody around to use them with, they were pointless.
This quote from the book connects to the theme of importance of home and family. A real family is there for you at all times, despite obstacles and setbacks. Dill ran away from his family because although they weren’t mean, they paid him no mind. The purpose of a family is not to live in isolation, but rather to interact with each other. Dill acquired nice new toys and books, but there was nobody at his home to use them with. Families are supposed to be close-knit and they should socialize with one another, but from the way this sounds, that was not the case at Dill’s home.
"'Besides, sister, I don't want you working your head off for us- you've no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.'" page 182-183
In this scene Atticus tells Alexandra that he doesn't need her busting her butt around the house. Atticus says that the family still needs Cal as much as ever.
My family has a house sitter as well and we value her as much as the Finch's value Cal. It doesn't matter if someone is not your brother or sister, they can still be apart of your family. My mother stressed this to me as a kid, that I should treat everyone who I love like family. Alexandra doesn't seem to understand why the Finch's appreciate Calpurina so much. She seems to think that there's no need to appreciate a black house keeper. According to Atticus, Calpurnia is a member of the family and he couldn't of gotten along without her.
The theme that connects with this chapter is the importance of home and family. According to Atticus, Scout, and Jem, Calpurnia is a part of the family and Alexandra needs to except that. I think that Aunt Alexandra is just jealous because it seems like the kids like Calpurnia more than her. It doesn't matter that Calpurnia is black and works for the Finch's, she is still apart of the family.
I agree with you because I also believe that it should not matter that Calpurnia is a different race from the rest of the Finch family. Calpurnia has acted like a mother to Jem and Scout. She has helped them grow up. Cal definitely deserves to be part of their family.
Miss Calpurnia, no doubt, is more to the Finch family than just a housekeeper. She maintains stability and cares for the family as if she were the children's mother. I agree with you!! She works for the family because she cares about them. Cal is a very important part of this family and has every right to be.
I agree with Maria on that Cal is a part of the family. My friends have a housekeeper who has become a loving part of the family who loves and cares for the kids as much as anyone else. The fact that they are not the same color definitely should not change this. If Alexandra spent time with Cal, Im sure that she would change her mind.
Ours were adjoining rooms; as I shut the door between them. Jem said, “Night, Scout.” “Night,” I murmured
In this scene Scout and Jem say goodnight to each other. This occurs right after they have a physical fight and injure one another. The fight happens because according to Scout “His maddening superiority was unbearable these days.”
I can personally relate to this scene. Over the years my sister and I have grown closer but we still continue to argue. My sister and I continue to have our disagreements and fights but in the end we both end up apologizing and moving on. Although my sister can get on my nerves I will never hate her. I think that Jem feels the same way about Scout as I do towards my sister. I also can relate to Scouts perspective when my sister says she knows more than me and is more mature only because she is older than me.
This scene is an example of the theme of the importance of home and family. After getting into a fight before going their separate ways they both wish each other a good night. Even after having a disagreement, in the end they both love eachother very much. Family is always there for you in the end and this is shown in Jem and Scout’s relationship.
I agree with you because although Scout and Jem fight sometimes, they will always be there for each other. This scene shows how important it is to have the support from your family. If Scout had decided to run away in chapter 14, would the rest of her family have been able to get along without her? In my opinion, I don't think they would. A family works together in unison with the help of every person in it. Take someone out, and the system is not disjointed and cannot function correctly.
I agree with both of you, even though Scout and Jem fight they still love each other unconditionally. Joanna I can relate to this, my sisters and I always fight but at the end of the day family is all that matters to me.
“Didn’t you all build that boat like you wrote you were gonna?” “He just said we would. We never did.” I raised up on my elbow, facing Dill’s outline. “It’s no reason to run off. They don’t get around to doin‘ what they say they’re gonna do half the time...” “That wasn’t it, he—they just wasn’t interested in me.” Pg 190
In this scene, Dill tells the reason why he ran away. He talks about how they say they care about him but they don't show that they cared about him.
In the world right now there are parents that don't seem to care much about their children. Dill feels the same way too. He feels like he's not getting the full time care he wants. If I were Dill I would probably do the same thing, if I had the courage.
Importance of family seems important in this chapter. If Dill's parents were aware of what Dill was thinking of they could of stopped him from running away. If Dill's new father built the boat with him he could of have some good memories with him. Another theme is the true definition of courage. I don't agree with running away from home 100% but I'm sure that you would need some courage to run away.
“Atticus’s voice was even: Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She is a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.” ( bottom of page 182 and top of page 183)
In this scene, Atticus finally stood up to Aunt Alexandra after she said that Atticus no longer needed Calpurnia.
I strongly agree with Atticus sticking up for Calpurnia. I dont think it was right of Aunt Alexandra to just come in and say that Cal was no longer needed. Calpurnia was a mother figure to the kids and she really loved them. She watched them grow up and is apart of their family. I personally believe that sometimes nannies can really be like family members. I have a family friend who was a nanny. She was with the family for years and watched the two young boys grow up. The family moved away and she could not go with them. She was so upset and so was the family. They told her it was like losing a part of the family.
The theme that goes with this is the importance of family and home. Atticus stood up to Aunt Alexandra when it came to Calpurnia. He let her know that Calpurnia was apart of the family whether Aunt Alexandra wanted her to be or not and he would never tell her to leave. He even said that he believed that the kids have benefitted from having Calpurnia around. “She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.”
“… he rose and broke the remaining code of our childhood.” Page 187
Scout narrates that she feels that Jem betrayed Dill by telling Atticus of his presence. Dill ran away from his home in Meridian, Mississippi because he felt neglected by his mother and stepfather. Dill wants to hide out at the Finch home without his family finding out, but Jem tells Atticus who will inform Miss Rachel, his aunt.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death from ages 10-24. Even today, many children and adolescents are too afraid to speak up in serious situations. Many times the child does not want to deceive their friend, which can lead to horrible things like suicide. There comes a time in every person’s life when they have to make the mature decision to get an adult. There are many warning signs portrayed before a person commits suicide, but some people chose to ignore these red flags when they should tell an adult. Everyday there are about 5,400 suicide attempts in our nation grades seventh through twelfth. If children would just speak up when a situation becomes very extreme like Jem did, we would have so many less suicides in our world.
This website shows the suicide statistics of youth today. http://jasonfoundation.com/prp/facts/youth-suicide-statistics/
This scene connects to the theme of the importance of home and family. Jem matures throughout the book and especially in this scene he acts responsibly by telling Atticus of Dill’s company. This action shows that Jem was raised well and now he is able to good decisions by himself.
"'...and another thing. The children love her.'" page 183
In this scene Atticus argues with Alexandra about the actions of Calpurnia. Atticus being the tremendous arguer that he is brings up a phenomenal point; the children love Cal. It doesn't matter if she's black or Alexandra doesn't like her. She is a member of the Finch family.
After a grueling argument with his sister, Atticus realizes that it doesn't matter what Alexandra thinks of Calpurnia because she is a member of the family and the children love her. Many people throughout the world have housekeepers and can relate to all of what Atticus is saying. Housekeepers help families function and without them something would be missing. Not just a helping, but a family member. I know many friends with house keepers and can agree with Atticus on this note.
The theme that relates with this chapter is the importance of home and family. According to the Finch family, Calpurnia is apart of the family and Alexandra needs to learn to except that. Cal has been like a mother to Scout and Jem and Aunt Alexandra is just jealous that she is being outcompeted by a black woman.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Chapter 14 Page 183
In this scene, Atticus defends Calpurnia because Alexandra, Atticus’ sister, believes that Calpurnia is not fit to be apart of the Finch household. Atticus shows that Calpurnia is more than just a house maid. She has helped raise Scout and Jem. She is a part of the Finch family no matter whose blood she has, and no matter what, she is there to stay. This expresses value in family and home, because Atticus values Cal as his own family member in hs own home, even though they’re not genetically related.
I know a family that has adopted many children from China, and all of their new family members are considered a part of the family. This showed me that people are more than just animals. They have feelings, love, and compassion. They look beyond their DNA and they accept people for who they are, not where they come from.
People adopt all the time all over the world, just like the people in this article http://www.people.com/article/nebraska-couple-adopts-eight-brothers-melissa-groves-scott who had adopted 8 boys and loved them as their own.
“Atticus’s voice was even: Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She is a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. Besides sister, I don't want you working your head off for us you’ve no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.” (End of page 182 and top of 183)
In this scene, Atticus made his point clear to Aunt Alexandra that he needed Calpurnia and so did the kids.
The themes that connect to this scene are the importance of home and family. Calpurnia is not officially part of the family but in my mind she is. She is very important to Atticus and the kids. Calpurnia is basically the mother of the family. Calpurnia has watched them grow up and has taken care of them. Aunt Alexandra can think what she wants but Atticus made it clear that she will never be leaving unless she wants too. On page 183 Atticus says… and another thing, the children love her”. Atticus knows the importance of family and I think he knows he is doing the right thing. It’s just not right to let somebody go who you have basically spent a big chunk of your life with.
I agree with Atticus, one of my best friends has a nanny and I still know her today. She was very nice and has been with that family for over 10 years and counting. She helped raise the two kids and even helped me and my sister in a way also. I think it is very important to keep Calpurnia because the lessons that she has taught the kids helped them shape into the people they are today. Same for me, I learned lessons from my friends nanny that I still remember today. A bond like that is something very special and that is one that Calpurnia shares with Atticus and the kids.
Atticus turned his head and pinned me to the wall with his good eye. His voice was deadly: "First, apologize to your tour aunt." "I'm sorry, Aunty," I muttered. "Now then" he said. "Lets get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt's in this house, you will do as she tells you. Understand?"
In this scene Atticus argues with Scout because he doesn't do what Aunty Alexandra says and he doesn't respect her. It was to teach Scout a lesson.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. Atticus shows Scout that you should respect the people that care for you and treat them like you want to be treated. He also shows him that he should respect his piers.
“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.” page 182
In this scene, Atticus is explaining to Aunt Alexandra, his sister, that Calpurnia is not just his help. She is a part of the family. Without Calpurnia, Atticus would have had a difficult time managing his children, Jem and Scout, on his own. She has been with them ever since Atticus’ wife died.
I had a nanny for many years when I was younger. I understand what Atticus is saying because I thought of my nanny as a part of my family, like he thinks of Cal as part of his family. My nanny helped raise me and made the life of my parents a lot easier. Also, I am surprised that Atticus has become so close with Calpurnia in such a racist time period. Most people during this time of segregation would take advantage of their help and treat them with little respect. This shows what kind of a person Atticus truly is.
This scene in the book is represented by two themes, the true definition of courage and the importance of home and family. Atticus is courageous because he is standing up to his sister rather than letting her boss him around. She is repeatedly telling everyone what to do and Atticus finally gives her his opinion. Atticus tells Alexandra that he believes that Calpurnia completes the Finch family. Without her, his life and his childrens lives would be very different.
“Why do you reckon Boo Radley’s never run off?” -Dill sighed a long and turned away from me. “Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to….” Pg: 192 L: 15
In this scene Dill says that he and Scout should get themselves a baby, and tells her a story about where babies come from he starts to said beautiful things that floated around in his dreamy head, Scout thinks that dill could read two books to my one, but he preferred the magic of his inventions.
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage first Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father. Dill is showing the way that he is growing by not believing more in stories that all in Maycomb said about Boo Radley’s, Dill is accepting that maybe Boo was in the same position that he was, but this time Boo doesn't has friends like Atticus , he understands that Arthur is very lonely and just do not feel like running away, because he doesn't have a family, and Scout also is showing that he grow up too because she didn’t contradict the words that Dill said.
“Why do you reckon Boo Radley’s never run off?” -Dill sighed a long and turned away from me. “Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to….” Pg: 192 L: 15
In this scene Dill says that he and Scout should get themselves a baby, and tells her a story about where babies come from he starts to said beautiful things that floated around in his dreamy head, Scout thinks that dill could read two books to my one, but he preferred the magic of his inventions.
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage first Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father. Dill is showing the way that he is growing by not believing more in stories that all in Maycomb said about Boo Radley’s, Dill is accepting that maybe Boo was in the same position that he was, but this time Boo doesn't has friends like Atticus , he understands that Arthur is very lonely and just do not feel like running away, because he doesn't have a family, and Scout also is showing that he grow up too because she didn’t contradict the words that Dill said.
I completely agree with you, Karen that Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father and his parents promised the people that they would take care of the problem. Maybe because of this crime, no one would be willing to help him enough so that he could run away.
."Alexandra, Calpurnia's not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn't have got along without her all these years. She's a faithful member of this family and you'll simply have to accept things the way they are." Page 137
Atticus speaks first of Calpurnia not as reliable help, but as a member of the family. In saying this, he announces that Calpurnia is his equal and will not be budged on the point.
I think Jem, lets us know that he is aware of the difficulties Atticus is facing with the Tom Robinson trial. Atticus, among the many traits he exhibits, is the children's moral compass. His defense of Calpurnia reflects the moral integrity Atticus lives his life by, and that which he shares by example with Scout and Jem.
The theme connects to the importance of home and family. This shows the importance of close family friends. Just because a person is not biologically related to you doesn't mean they can't be family. I personally have close friends in my life that are my family. Family is key to survival, whether they're related to you or not.
In this scene Atticus is sitting in a chair reading the paper after dinner. Scout asks him a seemingly simple question and Atticus tells her that it is the carnal knowledge of a female without her consent but, this quote represents so much more.
This quote shows how every kid has to grow up at one point. Scout is so innocent and naive, she thinks she has a permanent fiance and everything is all just fun and games for her, but then stuff like this enters a child’s life and they are forever changed. I can connect to this because a while a sex-offender moved into the general area of the district and we got letters sent home about it in Middle School. My younger sister found it and read it, she then proceeded to ask my parents, “what’s a sex-offender” and from that moment on she was changed forever. As Mrs. Sarna has said in class every kid has that one moment when they realize people are very bad and they lose their innocence. That pertains very well to this situation.
This quote connects to the theme of the importance of home and family. It connects to this theme because Scout is able to turn to her family when faced with something she does not know and they help her with it. They help her grown up, which is very important. It shows that without family we would be ignorant but, they help us to get through the cloudy spots of life.
"Alexandria, Calpurnia is not leaving this house until she wants to..." page 182.
In this scene, Atticus is having a chat with Alexandria. She is trying to say why Calpurnia should leave and why she is not needed anymore, because she was just used to take care of Jem and Scout when they were young and that she was not needed anymore.
In my opinion, I feel that this can connect to the damage done by racism. Because Calpurnia was African-American, she was thought less than she was actually worth(at the time the story was written).
Racism is still a big problem today, and I feel that the race marches did not abolish slavery, because discrimination based on race is still a large problem in todays society.
"'Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from having her brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.'" Page 183
In this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra disagree on whether or not they should keep Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra thinks that they don't need Calpurnia there to help out anymore. Atticus refuses to agree with and explains how Calpurnia has a positive influence on Jem and Scout.
I strongly agree with Atticus. It's ironic how Aunt Alexandra thinks Calpurnia isn't needed to help out anymore, yet I feel that Aunt Alexandra isn't need to help out anymore. Besides that she in fact have a positive influence over the kids, she also has become apart of the family. She has known the family from Finch's Landing, and has been with Atticus since. Aunt Alexandra is trying to solve things that aren't a problem to begin with. Most importantly, she took over the role of Scout and Jem's mother, since she passed away when they were very young. Having that mother-figure is important, and Calpurnia has been successful in taking their mom's place.
This section connects to the theme of home and family. Calpurnia is apart of the family now. Calpurnia completes the family, since their mother is gone. She has taught Jem and Scout many important lessons. Family doesn't always have to mean blood-line relatives, rather people who you love and mean a lot to you.
"Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, youre an easy man, but you have a daughter whos growing up." Page 182
In this scene Scout left to the bathroom and Jem was on the couch with a football magazine and Atticus and his sister were talking about whats the problem with letting her go and Scout was hearing from far away and she was nervous that they were talking about her. The sister of Atticus said that shes growing up and its time to let her go. Atticus doesnt want her to leave until she wants. Atticus says thet shes an important person in the family.
Atticus doesnt want to let go of Scout and shes growing up but he probably sees her as alittle girl and doesnt think shes ready to leave on her own.
This happens alot when graduates go off to college and there parents dont want to let them go because they see them as young kids. This scene is very relatible to parents.
"Why do you reckon Boo Radley's never run off?" "Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to..." (Page 192)
This conversation between Scout and Dill takes place while Scout and Dill are discussing his homelife and why he ran off and how they should get a baby.
In this historical,period, individuals with mental illness were shunned by society and not treated medically for their condition. In fact, the entire subject was often taboo. Boo Radley spent most of his adult life hidden in his parent's home and is not permitted to interact with anyone. He is not afforded the same civil rights and freedom that Scout and Dill enjoy and take for granted.
This resonates with one of our themes: is there justice for all in the United States? Clearly, Boo Radley's life could have been totally different if doctors and family had taken the time to determine what motivated him to behave the way he did. Neighbors label him a maniac without understanding his entire story. Today, individuals with mental illness are greeted with more sympathy and with greater forethought. Howevr, there still exists an uneasiness in this country when discussing this and mentally ill individuals may feel like a virtual Boo Radley in some respects. So, is there really justice for all in the United States?
“‘You oughta let your mother know where you are,’ said Jem. ‘You oughta let her know you’re here...’ Dill’s eyes flickered at Jem, and Jem looked at the floor. Then he rose and broke the remaining code of our childhood. He went out of the room and down the hall. ‘Atticus,’ his voice was distant, ‘can you come here a minute, sir?’” Pages 187-188.
In this scene, Jem goes against Dill’s wishes and tells his father about the situation with Dill and how he ran away from his home.
A theme that can connect to this scene is the difficult transition into adulthood. This isn’t a theme listed on the sheet, but it’s put into play many times throughout the book with Jem, and this scene is an example. In this part of the book, Jem must decide whether to stay true to his values and tell his father of the situation or to respect Dill’s request to keep his secret. With becoming an adult, becoming more responsible comes with it, but what is responsibility? It’s different for everyone, and the process of figuring out what responsibility means to you is what marks the transition of adulthood. Jem is currently in this transition, and is now deciding what a responsible friend is. Is it someone who respects his friend’s wishes or someone who tells an adult of the situation in attempt to make it better despite his friend’s objections? In this example, he chooses the second option.
I agree with Jem’s decision to tell his father about Dill’s whereabouts. Jem has experienced more in his lifetime and is figuring out right from wrong, whereas Dill isn’t quite there yet and would much rather hide his situation than face it. I have done the same thing as Jem where my brother told me to keep a secret, but I told my parents anyways because it was necessary for them to be informed about the situation he had told me since I couldn’t help him on my own. He was afraid to tell my parents. He was afraid that they’d get angry, but he was young and didn’t realize how much of a benefit it was to be open about his problem. It was difficult for me to go against my brother’s wish of me keeping his secret, but I had to decide what being a responsible sister meant to me, and that meant telling my parents to further benefit my brother.
“Let’s get this clear, you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house you will do what she tells you to.” Page 182
Atticus is scolding Scout in this scene for talking back to Alexandra for saying that she could not go back to church with Cal. Scout is not happy and is very argumentative.
In comparison to today, this is very similar to how parents act. I know from experience that if I talk back to my mom of my dad, I will get scolded. This shows that even though so much had changed from The Great Depression to today, some things will always be the same. I can relate this when adults let their kids talk back to them and then take away privileges. My brother likes to argue with my parents, and always thinks he is right. He has talked back to them for years, and they have finally gotten tired of it. So, whenever he talks back, he loses his phone for a certain amount of time, depending on the severity of his offense.
This can relate to the theme of the importance of family. Although this may not seem like a family moment, Atticus is teaching Scout a valuable lesson. He is teaching her the real life skill of not talking back to someone who holds power over you. This can be useful in the workplace, when your superior says something that you disagree with, but cannot say anything about. Atticus teaches Scout this now so she won't have to learn it the hard way in the future. Atticus is doing one of the greatest things a parent can do a for a child, he is teaching her.
“Who started it?” asked Atticus, in resignation. “Jem did he was tryin’ to tell me what to do. I don’t have to mind him now, do I?” Atticus smiled. “Let’s leave it at this: you mind Jem whenever he can make you. Fair enough?” page 185 This exchange between Atticus and Scout occurred in the evening after a physical altercation between Jem and Scout. Earlier Atticus sternly reprimanded Scout and told her that she must mind both Cal and Aunt Alexandra. Jem took this further when he and Scout were talking privately in his room when he included himself as someone Scout needed to mind. This is another situation I can relate to as the younger sibling. Often my older sister has tried to assert her perceived authority over me. My mother often reminded her that her primary responsibility was to look out for me, but if she truly wanted me to have to listen to her she needed to take complete and total responsibility for me and every aspect of my care.
“‘The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is- they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now- you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a room full of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.’” Page 191.
In this scene, Dill is explaining to Scout how he doesn’t enjoy not having his family around, while Scout believes that that would be so nice.
I do not personally connect to this, but I have friends who do. They have parents who constantly of a work-mindset. They’re never focused on family; it’s always all about work. My friends are left with nanny after nanny, but a nanny simply doesn’t connect to children as well as their mother or father would. They’re parents spoil them with technology, toys, and everything they could ever ask for, except one thing: love. They leave this void in their hearts. They feel unwanted and uncared for because their parents hardly make the effort to ask about their day or congratulate them on their achievements. Dill also feels unwanted and uncared for by his parents, and these negative emotions builds up inside of him to a point where can’t take it anymore and runs away.
A theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. If a child doesn’t feel wanted in his/her own family, this could lead to depression and many other issues. It’s essential for children to have families who love and care for them so that they can grow up in a healthy environment with reliable adults to aid them through their lives. Dill was passed around from family member to family member because there was nobody who would take him in. Imagine being a child in that situation? Wouldn’t you feel alone and abandoned? When he finally believed he had family he could trust and who would care for him, his mom and step-dad, they paid minimal attention to him, which made the emptiness in his heart even larger. The hole in his heart eventually became large enough that he decided to run away to the only people he knew cared about him: Jem and Scout.
“Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, you're an easy man, but you have a daughter to think of. A daughter whose growing up.” page 182
In this scene Atticus and his sister are talking and Scout has gone to the bathroom. When Jem Is on her way back she stops and overhears their conversation and the sister of Atticus is saying that theres nothing wrong with letting her go and that Atticus is holding on to her to long and that shes growing up . Scout is nervous because she thinks that they may be talking about her. Jem is sitting on the couch reading a football magazine. Atticus says that no Scout will leave the house when she chooses to.
I Think Atticus said that because he doesn't think Scout is ready to leave the house. Maybe Atticus sees Scout as a little girl still and doesnt think shes ready to leave.
This Scene is relatable to a lot of parents whose children have graduated and are leaving off to college and their parents don't think they're ready to leave and probably see them as young kids.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been…she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
In this scene, Aunt Alexandra and Atticus are arguing about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra believes that they don't need Calpurnia anymore but Atticus insists that they do because she is part of the family.
I strongly agree with Atticus's decision to keep Calpurnia because she is part of the family. She's helped Scout and Jem develop into the people they are and have taught them values and important life lessons. Someone who lives with you occasionally and is constantly in your home may not be blood related but they bond you form with somebody like Calpurnia is what makes them family. I personally did not have a nanny when I was growing up but I assume that kids bond with their nanny and love them as a mother. This would be even more true in Jem and Scout's case because they do not have a mother.
This scene relates to the theme of the importance of family. Atticus stuck by Calpurnia because he knows she is apart of his family and that she is very important to Scout and Jem. Calpurnia has had such an impact in Jem and Scout's lives and has been a mother to them. Calpurnia is very important to their family and she is very important to them.
"Now then, let's get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long your aunt's in this house , you will do as she tells you. Understand?" Page 182
In this scene, Atticus is telling Scout that she need to respect her Aunt Alexandra. After asking Atticus' permission to go to Calpurnia's house next Sunday afternoon, Aunt Alexandra was the one who responded and she said no. Scout talks back at her saying that she wasn't asking her. and that's when Atticus scolded her.
I do agree with Atticus. I do agree that she should respect her aunt, but I don't agree with Aunt Alexandra when she says no to letting Scout go to Calpurnia's house. Atticus has a point, no matter what Aunt Alexandra will always be family, besides she is there to be a female influence for Scout. She there to help raise her.
This scene relates to the theme the importance of family. Atticus is teaching Scout to respect and listen to her aunt. After all Aunt Alexandra is to help with Scout, so she has the right to make decisions for Scout.
“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she
ReplyDeletewants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all
these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to
accept things the way they are..." page 182
In this scene, Atticus is arguing with Alexandria about Calpurnia. Atticus says that Calpurnia is a member of the family and she doesn't have to go anywhere. Alexandria thinks that Calpurnia is just some lady who Atticus hired to keep around the house to deal with Scout and Jem when they were kids and having her stay is just unnecessary. I agree with Atticus because after staying with the Finch's for such a long time and being so involved in their lives, she has earned a place in their family. This relates to the theme of the importance of family. Family isn't just someone who is related to you by blood, family is someone who will always be in your heart and will never get left behind. I think that the idea of "you can't pick your family," isn't accurate because anyone can be a part of your family.
I completely agree Max. After all the years Calpurnia has spent with the kids and Atticus she definitely is part of the family. She is also a strong femal figure in Scout's life that she needs.
DeleteI agree 100%. Calpurnia is as much of a family member as Alexandra is in the Atticus's house. She needs to understand that just because Cal is black does not mean that Alexandra is better than her.
DeleteMax could not have stated this better. Calpurnia has spent so much time with the kids that she is almost like a mother to them. It is not Aunt Alexandra's decision to come and start determining whether people should stay or go. She teaches Jem and Scout very valuable lessons that will server them good in the future.
DeleteI completely agree. Calpurnia is the closest thing Jem and Scout have to a mother and she was a huge part in their raising. Aunt Alexandra simply does not understand how important Cal is to the family. It is interesting how you brought up the idea that the saying you cannot pick you family is inaccurate. I agree because although you are stuck with the family you are born into the people you bring into your life and make a part of the family are just as important as those related by blood.
DeleteVery well said Maxwell. Calpurnia is even more of a family member than Alexandra and I think that Alexandra needs to understand that. She has been with Finches for not too long and thinks she's the alpha dog.
DeleteI love the way you said a family member isn't only measured by the relationship with blood, but it is earned in love. I agree completely that Cal has earned a spot in the Finch family.
DeleteI completely agree with your comments. You could not have been more right when you said that Alexandra thinks Calpurnia is just somebody that Atticus hired to deal with Scout and Jem, when really she is practically a member of the Finch family even if she isn't related by blood.
DeleteI agree with you. I like that the ides that you said "you can't pick your family", isn't accurate because anyone can be a part of your family.
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ReplyDelete“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from having her brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
In this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are having an argument about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra says that they have had Cal for long enough and it is time to let her go, but Atticus refuses to back down on this one and insists that Calpurnia does nothing but good for the kids and the family.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this situation. While I have never had a nanny, many of my friends had and still do have nannies even if they don’t need one anymore. After having someone live with you for years they become part of the family and even if they are not necessary they are someone you love. This must be even more extreme for Jem and Scout considering that their mother passed away when they were young.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. Clearly, Calpurnia is a loved one and a part of the family. Atticus knows this and realizes that even though the kids are growing up they love Cal. He also understands that after all of Cal’s years of great work, she deserves to decide when she leaves and stay as long as she wants to, even if she isn’t needed to watch over Jem and Scout anymore.
I think that Cal is like a mother to them and getting rid of her would hurt them more than help them. Alexandra thinks that Jem and Scout would grow up more without her, but I feel that they would be upset and miss her so much that they wouldn't know what to do. She guides them often throughout the book and the children would be lost without her.
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DeleteI agree with both you and Sophia. The house would not be the same without Calpurinia. She is not just their nanny but really apart of the family. She is like a mother figure to Scout and Jem. She always looks out for them and she really loves them and they really love her. Maybe Aunt Alexandra wanted Cal to leave because she wants to be the mother figure now that she is living with them and felt threatened by Calpurnia and how much the kids love her.
DeleteI strongly agree with you Sam because Calpurnia has always been there for Scout and Jem and is more of a mother than Aunt Alexandra. Without Calpurnia in the household, both Jem and Scout could do bad things and not behave or listen to their elders.
Delete“The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is---they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a roomful of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.” Middle of page 191.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dill has returned to Maycomb, and tells Scout the real reason real reason why he left his parents. It really had nothing to do with Dill being bound in chains to be left to die.
In our world today, there are many wealthy kids such as Dill who are not as happy as someone of a lower class. Children can be provided with every toy, device, or book, but nothing can replace time spent with family. By shooing kids away with these distractions, they can feel unwanted, and more importantly, they don't have anyone to express their feelings with. In extreme cases, the kid may run away, but more commonly they will make silly decisions in order to get attention.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2203025/Spending-time-work-children-young-parents-chief-regret.html
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage and the importance of family. Although Dill had all the toys and books he could have dreamt of, the one thing he lacked was a family that he could spend quality time with. The situation was so dire, that he was able to build up the courage to wander two miles out of Meridian, travel all over Mississippi, and walk from Abbott County to Maycomb all by himself. Not only does this show us the importance of family, and courage, but it teaches that money does not always buy happiness.
I really liked your quote, because I think many kids can relate to it. Sometimes parents can't be with their kids and so they fill that void with gifts and toys to try to make up for it. Dill also makes up crazy stories about his family to make them seem more interesting and I feel like he tries to pretend that he's okay or that he doesn't care about not getting attention.
Delete“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good—and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are arguing about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra thinks that Calpurnia has been there long enough and that they should let her go. But Atticus says that Calpurnia doesn’t do anything else but good things for the kids and that, that is why Calpurnia has to stay.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this argument. Even though I have not had a nanny, I can tell that they should be apart of your family if they have been there with you for years, then they should definitely be apart of your family. This is probably much more serious in Jem and Scouts situation because their mother had passed away when they were young so Calpurnia must be like a mother for them since she has been there for them over the years.
This scene has to do with the importance of home and family for sure. Obviously Calpurnia is loved and apart of their family. Atticus understands this and knows that the kids love Calpurnia very much. Also he knows that Calpurnia has done amazing work, so if anything she should be the one to decide when she leaves and she should decide how long she stays.
I completely agree with you, Tyler. Calpurnia is such an important person and has such an effect on Jem and Scout. She is very influential to this family. It makes you wonder, how different would Scout and Jem be without Calpurnia?
DeleteI agree with you, Tyler. Speaking from personal memory, I had a live in nanny for a good amount of time when I was younger. She was every bit a part of my family as my mom and dad. Atticus is right to stand up for Calpurnia and it is amazing how he doesn't have any bit of racism in him.
DeleteI strongly agree with all of you. Calpurnia has a large impact on the children and who they are. I believe that it is a great thing that her skin is a different color than theirs. Because of this, Scout and Jem know that racism is wrong. Calpurnia is black and they know that she is a very good person. Her skin color does not change their opinion about her.
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DeleteI agree with you Tyler, Calpurnia has acted as a mother figure for Scout and Jem where they did not have one. She has been hard on them like a mother would and has raised them as her own. She truly cares for them and proves this through her actions. It is upsetting that Aunt Alexandria would try to take that away from the kids.
Delete“She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is trying to convince Aunt Alexandra that Calpurnia should stay part of the family. While Aunt Alexandra is trying to say that they do not need Calpurnia there anymore. Atticus is standing up to Aunt Alexandra because he knows how important Calpurnia is to the family. Scout is listening to this conversation between Atticus and Aunt Alexandra.
I strongly agree with Atticus and his decision to keep Calpurnia as a part of the family. I have a friend who had a nanny and I know that she was very close to the family. She lived in the house and they got to be so close. She cared for him deeply and he loved her as if she was a really close relative. Its almost as if she was another mother to him and she was a huge part of his childhood. That situation must be so much greater for Scout and Jem because Calpurnia is exactly like a mother for them. Calpurnia is also very influential in Scout and Jem's development into young adults.
This scene has a lot to do with the importance of home and family. Atticus sticks by his decision to keep Calpurnia as a part of the family. Calpurnia is a mother figure to both Scout and Jem and they have grown so close to Calpurnia. Without Calpurnia Scout and Jem would not be who they are today because Calpurnia had such a big effect in their lives. She is very important to this family and she is a great example of how important family is to Scout and Jem.
I agree with you 100%, Danny. Calpurnia has has such a huge impact on Scout and Jem's lives, and to take that away from them, is like taking their mother wasy from them again. Also, Aunt Alexandra shouldn't be making decisions for the family, especially if everyone else wants Calpurnia to stay.
DeleteI agree with both of you. I think it is very important to realize without Calpurnia, Jem and Scout would most likely be different people. I also like how Tyler said it is like taking a mother away. She has acted as there mother for a very long time and I don't think that should be taken away from the kids ever. I know a friend who has a nanny and she is a big part of those kids life. Great point.
Delete“ Dill, you ain’t telling me right---your folks couldn’t do without you. Middle of page 191
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Scout is telling Dill that his parents love him and couldn’t do anything without him. Before Scout tells this to Dill, he had explained why he ran away and came back to Maycomb. Dill said that his dad didn’t do anything. His dad was supposed to build a boat with him and never started the project. Dill ran to a place he was most comfortable and where he had friends and was most happy.
I know that I couldn’t do anything without my parents or sister. I would have no where to turn to, nowhere to get advice or help from. If I was young at this time, the skills i’d learn with my parents wouldn’t be known or wouldn’t be done. Parents are inspirational. Little kids usually get excited about a parents job, and this inspires what you want to be when you’d grow up. But, I wouldn’t know what i’d want to do. Without family you wouldn’t get help, or help to achieve your goals. As much as you need your parents they also need you. This quote that Scout says tells Dill that his parents need him, and he needs them. This quote summarizes how all families feel about each other.
The importance of family really comes alive in this quote. to achieve great things your family always has your back. You have somewhere to turn to when you’re feeling lost. They give you the courage to speak your mind. They tell you to not give up and try again. That is what family is for. They hold you up and help you fight for what you want to achieve and accomplish. In this quote Dill needs his family and they need him, even if he doesn’t realize it.
I agree with you because I believe that Dill needs to learn that everybody influences each other. One cannot be present and have no effect. It's like being in an elevator. Even if one doesn't realize it, when somebody gets on, everybody moves over for them. A family must function together and works much better with all it's pieces at once.
DeleteI completely agree with your them to text paragraph. Dill had nobody to lean on when he was feeling lost. This created a sense of loneliness in his life. In my opinion, this was a huge factor that prompted Dill to runaway to his friends. With Scout and Jem, he would be able to enjoy life with other people rather than just playing toys.
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ReplyDelete“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Chapter 14 Page 183
In this quote from the story, Atticus is speaking to Aunt Alexandra about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra insists that the family no longer needs her, and Atticus responds by saying that Cal can stay as long as she wants. Atticus thinks that Cal has helped to shape Jem and Scout to become better people and she teaches them her morals and values. Unlike a lot of other colored people, Cal doesn’t humor the kids, and she treats them like adults. Cal is basically a member of the family, and she is a mother figure for Scout and Jem.
Just like Calpurnia, I have a babysitter who has been working with my family for nearly 10 years. She has seen all 3 children in my family grow and mature. If it weren’t for her, I don’t think I would be the person I am today. She has helped to teach me the importance that values and morals play in everyday life. She is practically a second mother for me.
The overarching theme of importance of home and family is incorporated into this scene. Atticus compares Calpurnia to a mother and he says that she has helped to raise Jem and Scout. Family members are people that you can rely on during times of weakness and strength, and that is exactly what Cal is. Even though she isn’t a blood relative, there is something to be said about the impact she has had on the Finch family’s life, specifically Jem and Scout.
Jem and Scout lost their mother at such a young age, and Atticus is constantly working. If Calpurnia wasn't around, do you think that Jem and Scout would have grown up the same way? Why or why not?
Unquestionably, I believe the absense of Calpurnia would have drastically impacted the entire Finch family. For example, if Calpurnia wasn't present, Scout, in particular, could be neglected by a guardian after growing up with a single, working father. This change in Scout would influence Jem and Atticus, and in turn, would influence the rest of the Finches including Alexandra, Francis, and Jack. A change in one person, I believe, can influence everybody they come in contact with.
Delete“Let’s get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house, you will do as she tells you.”
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus explains this to Scout after she backtalks her Aunt Alexandra when Aunt Alexandra tells her she can’t go see Calpurnia. Scout was very rude to her, and Atticus wants her to realize how she should be acting. He wants her to respect her aunt.
I think both parties were at fault here. Scout was exceedingly rude to Aunt Alexandra saying, basically, that Aunt Alexandra has no power over Scout. Scout refuses to accept that Aunt Alexandra has control of her, even though Atticus disagrees. Aunt Alexandra, on the other hand, should not have told her so uncompromisingly that she could not go to Calpurnia’s. She was, however, only doing what she thought best for Scout. She believed seeing Calpurnia would be disadvantageous to Scout’s manners and reputation. Aunt Alexandra was only looking out for Scout. Ultimately, both Scout and Aunt Alexandra must learn to tolerate each other and to understand each other’s will.
Family is extremely important to Scout, but unfortunately, she doesn’t consider Aunt Alexandra to be a real part of her family. She doesn’t respect Aunt Alexandra like she respects Atticus or Jem, which causes her to dishonor Aunt Alexandra occasionally. Atticus realizes how much Aunt Alexandra is doing and her importance, however. He chastises Scout on manners and helps her to value Aunt Alexandra’s presence. This shows the importance of family member’s actions both when Atticus values Alexandra and when Aunt Alexandra tries to keep Scout safe in her opinion. (Pg. 181-182, Paragraph 16)
I agree with the action of Atticus in this scene. Scout needs to understand that there are plenty of elders that you may not like in your lifetime, but they have learned from their mistakes, and matured in the process. Although some of the responses to your requests might not be what you want to here, they are able to see possible situations that will arise in the future.
DeleteI agree with Atticus' decision in this scene. Since Scout is a child, she needs to learn to respect her elders. It is something every child learns or should learn at a very young age. Even if she doesn't respect them she must listen to what they tell her.
DeleteI agree with Atticus' decisions in this scene as well. Scout does not like how her aunt acts towards her, but she must respect her regardless. Aunt Alexandra is only trying to help Scout and Scout needs to acknowledge that. Like Javen said, although Scout may not be hearing the responses she would rather hear from her aunt, her response may help Scout in the future.
Delete“They just wasn’t interested in me.”
ReplyDeleteHere, Dill explains why he fled from his parents. Jem and Scout had believed that Dill was getting along very well with his new father and was to build a boat with him. Unfortunately, Dill was not pleased with the attention he achieved from his family.
A major issue in America today is that children don’t believe that their parent understand or care about them. Due to tough economic times, many parents are both out to work at the same time during the day leaving their children home alone, sometimes at a young age, for extended periods of time. This is what Dill is feeling. His family may not have economic hardships, but he still doesn’t believe that they really understand him. He thinks they’re too occupied with their books and each other to care enough about him. This reasoning led him to run away from home.
Families shape their kids. Parents and close relatives have the largest influence on children’s development. Dill is feeling neglected which is changing how he acts. He becomes obsessed with bothering people like Boo Radley and he makes up stories about his parents to make himself seem interesting. Jem and Scout, on the other hand, have a great father who teaches them more manners and respectable things to do. These two families show the importance of parents being there for children. They flourish if parents care about their kids, however, children may feel hurt if it seems that parents don’t care. (Pg. 190, Paragraph 11)
I agree with you. I really liked your text to world connection because many kids can relate to it. I also really liked the quote you picked because the scene is very important.
DeleteAbby I agree with you . In the way you explain that the older people in the family are the ones who shape the kids.
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ReplyDeleteOn the bottom of page 182 to the middle of page 183, Atticus is talking to Aunt Alexandra and explaining to her that Calpurnia is someone who has always been apart of there family and she is like a mother to Jem and Scout. Atticus also knows that Calpurnia would do anything to keep the children safe and loves them dearly. Atticus is telling Alexandra that Calpurnia is not someone he hired to take care of the children, she is someone the children need because she has taught them so much and plays a mother role in their lives.
I agree with everything that Atticus is telling Aunt Alexandra. Calpurnia may come from a different family but that does not mean that the children will not be safe under her supervision. It also does not mean that they are not family and that Calpurnia is just there to help out. The Finch household would not be the same without Calpurnia,there would be a member of the family missing. I can relate to this because when I was younger, I had a nanny. She was like apart of the family even though we were not related. She always took care of me and made decisions based off of what my best interest would be. She was like a Grandmother to me. People could not believe how close we were because we were not related. That shows that even though someone may not be related to you that does not mean that they will not love you or keep you safe, no matter where you are.
The theme that this connects to is, the importance of home and family. Even though Scout and Calpurnia are not related by blood, there is a strong connection they have. Family is not someone who shares the same genes, it is someone who loves and cares for you. Calpurnia will always be a member of the family, no matter what.
I agree because Aunt Alexandra seems to be worried more about what other people think more than teaching the children. I think that she wants to be the one to raise the children in her own perfect way than to let another mother figure come in and teach them things that doesn't relate to the Finch family ideas and values.
DeleteI agree with you completely, Francesca. The Finch household would be a mess without Calpurnia. Also you shouldn't have to be apart of the same bloodline to be 'family', like you said family is someone who loves and cares for you, and I completely agree with that.
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ReplyDelete“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been...she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s pretty good-and another thing, the children love her.” page 183
ReplyDeleteDuring this part of the book, Atticus is telling Alexandra that Calpurnia is a wonderful lady who is a great influence on the children. She’s a part of their family and helps out around the house.
In comparison to today, lots of people feel that they can’t trust somebody until they get to know them. Aunt Alexandra doesn’t really know Calpurnia that well yet, so she is hesitant to let Scout go over to her house one afternoon. I feel that Aunt Alexandra is also worried about what the people of Maycomb might say if they hear that Scout went Cal’s house. Calpurnia is the mother figure in Scout’s life and she cares about the wellbeing of Scout. The importance of home and family is significant in this chapter, because Cal has always been in Jem and Scout’s lives. She is family and they all love her very much.
Hi Sophia,
DeleteI agree with the thought that maybe Aunt Alexandra is worried about what the people in Maycomb will think when they find out that Scout went over to Cal's house. They are already infuriated by the fact that Atticus is doing Tom's case. Aunt Alexandra is very proud of her family name and does not want anyone or anything else tampering with it.
Hey Sophia. I agree that maybe Aunt Alexandria is more hesistant towards Calpurina due to the lack of trust and not knowing who she is .
DeleteI really like your points that you made, Sophia. I personally like the point when you said that you can't trust someone until you know them. That definitely makes a great text-to-world connection. A great point that you also made would be the effect of them going to her house, and the controversy that would have been made throughout all of Maycomb. Nice job!
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ReplyDelete“She’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good— and another thing, the children love her.” pg. 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Aunt Alexandra and Atticus are arguing about Calpurnia staying at home. Alexandra is showing racism to Calpurnia because she is not agree with Atticus letting a black woman takes care of the kids. Besides, Atticus think that Calpurnia only does good things for the children and the family.
What I find disturbing is the way Alexandra is thinking about Calpurnia. She has ever lived in Atticus house, much less knows how is Calpurnia’s behavior with the kids. The only thing Alexandra is doing is using a stereotype just because Calpurnia is black. However, I agree with Atticus when he says that Calpurnia has a faithful member of his family so she is going nowhere. Today, many families has someone at their houses to help them with the kids and comes the time when those nannies become part of the family.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. As I mentioned before, nannies like Calpurnia are part of the family because they are so lovely. Therefore, it becomes difficult when they have to leave or when someone is trying to get them out like Alexandra is doing with Calpurnia. Thanks to Atticus she stays home with the kids and continue doing her stuff.
I agree with you Maria . I like how you give an example of today's care takers and how they have an impact on the children even though they aren't really related. I'm truly annoyed with they way Aunt Alexandra thinks about Cal , and I hope she later sees what a good role model she is towards the kids.
Delete“She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene of the story Atticus is explaining to Aunt Alexandra that no matter what she says Cal will continue to be part of their family. Atticus explains how Calpurnia has done a good job of raising the children and has been appropriately strict with them even more than a mother would be.
I do not completely understand Aunt Alexandra’s motives for wanting Cal to leave. Calpurnia has been a great help to Atticus and his children and has played an important role in their raising. Cal has made such a great impact on Scout and Jem’s lives it would not be right to kick her out. Therefore, I agree with Atticus in his decision to keep Cal around and standing up to his sister.
This relates to the importance of home and family seeing as how Cal is basically part of the family. Without Scout and Jem’s mother Cal has played almost a mothering role in their family dynamics. She has taught the children many important life lessons and without Cal their family would be faced with many issues.
“... you’ve got to do something about her,” Aunty was saying. “You’ve let things go on too long, Atticus, too long” … “Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. besides, sister, in don’t want you working your head off for us--you’ve no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.” Chapter 14, page 182-183
ReplyDeleteIn these scene, Aunt Alexandra wants to get rid of Calpurnia because she thinks it is not good for Scout to stay where Calpurnia is. She is kind of being racist with Cal. Atticus being the good man he is he defends Calpurnia and tells Aunt Alexandra that she is part of the family and he is not getting rid of her.
I strongly disagree with Aunt Alexandra and Agree with Atticus. Cal has been helping atticus for many years and nobody is going to tell Atticus to get rid of her just because she wants to and because she thinks it is not good for their childrens. I agree with the way Atticus is responding to Aunt Alexandra because he is letting her know that he decides with who their children will be.
The theme that connects with this scene is the importance of home and family. Aunt Alexandra's idea of family is exclusive (kick out those who aren't worthy of being counted in), while Atticus's is inclusive. She arranges family by blood, while Atticus considers affection and loyalty. Basically, it boils down to: do you judge a man (or woman) by his birth—or by his life?
" Well , they stayed gone all the time , and when they were home , even , they'd get off in a room by themselves. " Pg 190
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dill is telling Scout of his new life with his new family , and how it's not as glorious as he wanted it to be .
If I were Scout I would want to know how Dill truly felt about his new father , and how it feels to be " alone " . Even though his parents were right next door. I know if I were Dill I would be envious of Scout because she has a father that wishes he could be with his children every second of the day . I also wonder what thoughts go through Dill's head when he's all by himself and have no one to talk to.
The theme in this scene is the importance of home and family . I think this because Dill wouldn't have run away if he had the attention and unconditional love he wanted this whole time. He said “ Parents , they kiss you and hug you good night and good mornin’ and goodbye and tell you they love you”. This shows how Dill wishes his parents would treat him .
I agree Emily, all that Dill wants is the love and affection from his parents. Every child deserves love and affection from their parents.
Delete"Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, you're a easy man, but you have a daughter to think of. A daughter who's growing up." Chapter 14 page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this text, Alexandra is voicing her opinion to Atticus. She feels it is her place to guide Scout. Atticus does not agree with his sister but is respectful to her. The aunt feels Scout is missing a mother figure and believes Atticus works too many hours.
I do not agree with Alexandra because I feel everyone parent has the right to raise their child the way they want to parent them. I believe she is saying it with intention of what is best for Scout.
Often in the real world aunts or uncles will often step in and act like a parent for children that need it. I feel in certain circumstances it is ok for a relative to guide young children. All children need some sort of role model. Often a family member can spend extra time with a child who is missing a parent.
The text to theme connection is the importance of all family members. Aunt Alexandra is a character in the novel that draws contrast to Atticus's easy nature. All though Scout does not enjoy having her aunt live with her, she plays a important role in Scout's life. This will ultimately influence the personality of Scout.
I feel that the ideal mother Scout wants is Calpurnia. I agree that everyone has their ways of raising their children. But Aunt Alexandra came to partially become their mother. To have Jem and Scout know how it feels to be with a mother.
Delete“Didn’t you all build that boat like you wrote you were gonna?”
ReplyDelete“He just said we would. We never did.”
In this scene, Scout is talking to Dill about his new father. Dill thought that he would be a great addition to his family but he was completely wrong. Dill feels that his parents don’t want his presence.
What I find disturbing is that Dill thought that his father would be there for him, but he has done nothing for his son. Dill explains to Scout that you would think his family is happy but they actually have many issues. This is similar to an event that recently occurred in my life. One of my friends parents just got a divorce. Everyone thought that they were so happy together, so it was surprising when we heard the news. This is proof to what I just mentioned, you can’t judge a book by it’s cover.
The theme that best represents this scene is the importance of home and family. Without a family that cares for you, you may feel unloved and unwanted. Dill feels this way because his parents always buy him things to play with on his own, rather than as a family. He does believe that his parents are good parents, he just wishes that they wanted to spend time with him more often.
sorry I forgot the page number; page 190
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ReplyDeleteAtticus’s voice was even: “Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years, She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have it accept things the way they are...” Page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus harshly responds to his sister as she brings up firing Cal. Atticus explains to her that Cal is a member of this family, and he later claims that she practically raised his children. He also says she is harder on them than a real mother would be.
Although I have never had a person in my life similar to Calpurnia, I still know many people who have. Being a housekeeper is very common job in this country. Many of my friends, who have had a nanny, would claim the same thing that Atticus is stressing. They say that their family couldn’t function without them, and even say that they raised them like a parent would. It amazes me the trust displayed to hire any person with this job, because they could be anyone. Especially the trust in Atticus, because although the African- Americans were clearly oppressed in this time period, and he hired Cal anyway.
This scene relates to two of the many themes in this novel. One being the true definition of courage, and the other being the importance of family. Atticus shows courage to stand up to his manipulative sister, who bossed him around the whole time she was staying with them. He stands up for Cal claiming she is part of their family. He says that she was like a mother to Scout and Jem.
Very well said. I agree with you Teddy because it does take a lot of courage and also it wouldn't be easy to say goodbye to Calpurnia after all she has been through with the Finch family.
DeleteCouldn't agree more! Atticus is a strong, free thinking individual who recognizes the importance of Calpurnia and her role in the family. Not only is she a well worker, but she ties the family together and there would be no stability with the lack of her presence.
DeleteAlexandra has no right to barge into their household and attempt to change every aspect of their daily life. Also, she is a bad influence, a racist, and someone who I would not want to be near my kids.
Delete“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. Beside, sister, I don’t want you working your head off for us, you’ve no reason” page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus and Aunt Alexandra were arguing about Calpurnia. Atticus is explain that Calpurnia doesn't have to go anywhere and she is already a faithful member of family but Aunt Alexandra don’t understand why did Atticus accept Calpurnia as a member of family.
I strongly agree with Atticus because Calpurnia has been helping Atticus to take care of Scout and Jem, and after staying long time with Finch family. Atticus gave Calpurnia a place to her to be and Calpurnia decided to be part of family.
In my opinion, the theme that relate to this is importance of home and family. Family isn’t just some that relate to you by blood, it is also someone you have loved, someone who you can trust you and who will be always there to help you. So even Atticus and Calpurnia isn’t related by blood, Calpurnia is always there to help Atticus with Scout and Jem.
Ch14
ReplyDelete“Atticus’s voice was even: ‘Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.’” ch14 p182
Atticus is explaining to Alexandra that Calpurnia is as much a member of the Finch family as she is. Atticus, Jem, and especially scout, all need Calpurnia very much and the arrival of Alexandra will not change that.
I strongly agree with Atticus in this situation. Alexandra has not been living with the Finches for years, and does not have the right to kick out someone who does, based on their skin color. Calpurnia is part of the family, having cared for Scout and Jem since they were very young. I had someone like Calpurnia when I was younger, and I can say that she is very much a part of my family. Since I was 3 months old, I have had someone besides my parents who has wholly cared for me and loved me, and the situation is the same with Calpurnia.
What I find atrocious is the obvious connection between Alexandra’s attitude and the color of Calpurnia’s skin. The theme in this text is the damage done by racism. Alexandra is attempting to replace Calpurnia and believes she is better than Cal based on the fact that Cal is black. Cal has always been there, always will be, and Alexandra can't change that.
DeleteAtticus is defending Cal in the same way that he defends Tom. He does not care about race, he just cares about what is right. He is also mirroring his defending of Tom with Cal. He defends Tom from a racist community that wants to kill him, just like he defends Cal from a racist women who wants to kick her out.
“Let’s get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house, you will do as she tells you.” Bottom of page 181 to the top of 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus tells this to Scout after she backtalk's her Aunt Alexandra when Alexandra tells her she can’t go see Calpurnia the following Sunday. Scout was very rude to her, and Atticus wants her to realize how she was acting and he wants her to respect her aunt.
I believe that it was both Scout and Alexandras fault why Atticus said this to Scout. Scout was quite rude to her aunt saying that Aunt Alexandra has no power over Scout. Scout refuses to accept that Aunt Alexandra has control of her, even though this is not entirely true. Although Aunt Alexandra should not have told her so that she could not go to Calpurnia’s house, she was really only doing what she thought was best for Scout. She thought that seeing Calpurnia wouldn’t be good for Scout’s reputation, behavior/manners, etc. Most importantly, Scout and her Aunt Alexandra must learn to tolerate each other and to understand each other’s needs and wants.
The Importance of home and family is very crucial at this point in the book. Scout doesn't see her Aunt Alexandra as a big part of her family because she hasn't really been there for Scout or Jem. She doesn't respect Aunt Alexandra like she respects Atticus or Jem, which causes her to disrespect Alexandra at times. Atticus does realize how much Aunt Alexandra is doing to help out and her importance. He has a chat with Scout on manners and helps her to appreciate Aunt Alexandra’s help. If Scout wants to be a well behaved lady, she must learn to respect her elders and to not argue with them. Even in our world today, a lot of adolescents are not respectful to their parents. They must understand that their parents have gave up many things and tried their best to provide a good life for them.
“‘The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is-they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now-you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a roomful of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.’” Chapter 14 Page 191
ReplyDeleteIn this part of the book, Dill is speaking to Scout about why he ran away from home. He tells her that there was nothing mean about his family, but that they just ignored his presence. They got him a lot of nice things, but they expected him to use them by himself and for the most part, they kept to themselves.
When I was little, I used to play with my older brothers. However, as they grew older, they began to grow out of the games and activities that I liked to do. This left me by myself a lot when I was at home, similarly to how Dill was isolated from his family. I had very nice toys, but when there was nobody around to use them with, they were pointless.
This quote from the book connects to the theme of importance of home and family. A real family is there for you at all times, despite obstacles and setbacks. Dill ran away from his family because although they weren’t mean, they paid him no mind. The purpose of a family is not to live in isolation, but rather to interact with each other. Dill acquired nice new toys and books, but there was nobody at his home to use them with. Families are supposed to be close-knit and they should socialize with one another, but from the way this sounds, that was not the case at Dill’s home.
"'Besides, sister, I don't want you working your head off for us- you've no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.'" page 182-183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus tells Alexandra that he doesn't need her busting her butt around the house. Atticus says that the family still needs Cal as much as ever.
My family has a house sitter as well and we value her as much as the Finch's value Cal. It doesn't matter if someone is not your brother or sister, they can still be apart of your family. My mother stressed this to me as a kid, that I should treat everyone who I love like family. Alexandra doesn't seem to understand why the Finch's appreciate Calpurina so much. She seems to think that there's no need to appreciate a black house keeper. According to Atticus, Calpurnia is a member of the family and he couldn't of gotten along without her.
The theme that connects with this chapter is the importance of home and family. According to Atticus, Scout, and Jem, Calpurnia is a part of the family and Alexandra needs to except that. I think that Aunt Alexandra is just jealous because it seems like the kids like Calpurnia more than her. It doesn't matter that Calpurnia is black and works for the Finch's, she is still apart of the family.
I agree with you because I also believe that it should not matter that Calpurnia is a different race from the rest of the Finch family. Calpurnia has acted like a mother to Jem and Scout. She has helped them grow up. Cal definitely deserves to be part of their family.
DeleteMiss Calpurnia, no doubt, is more to the Finch family than just a housekeeper. She maintains stability and cares for the family as if she were the children's mother. I agree with you!! She works for the family because she cares about them. Cal is a very important part of this family and has every right to be.
DeleteI agree with Maria on that Cal is a part of the family. My friends have a housekeeper who has become a loving part of the family who loves and cares for the kids as much as anyone else. The fact that they are not the same color definitely should not change this. If Alexandra spent time with Cal, Im sure that she would change her mind.
DeleteOurs were adjoining rooms; as I shut the door between them. Jem said, “Night, Scout.” “Night,” I murmured
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Scout and Jem say goodnight to each other. This occurs right after they have a physical fight and injure one another. The fight happens because according to Scout “His maddening superiority was unbearable these days.”
I can personally relate to this scene. Over the years my sister and I have grown closer but we still continue to argue. My sister and I continue to have our disagreements and fights but in the end we both end up apologizing and moving on. Although my sister can get on my nerves I will never hate her. I think that Jem feels the same way about Scout as I do towards my sister. I also can relate to Scouts perspective when my sister says she knows more than me and is more mature only because she is older than me.
This scene is an example of the theme of the importance of home and family. After getting into a fight before going their separate ways they both wish each other a good night. Even after having a disagreement, in the end they both love eachother very much. Family is always there for you in the end and this is shown in Jem and Scout’s relationship.
I agree with you because although Scout and Jem fight sometimes, they will always be there for each other. This scene shows how important it is to have the support from your family. If Scout had decided to run away in chapter 14, would the rest of her family have been able to get along without her? In my opinion, I don't think they would. A family works together in unison with the help of every person in it. Take someone out, and the system is not disjointed and cannot function correctly.
DeleteI agree with both of you, even though Scout and Jem fight they still love each other unconditionally. Joanna I can relate to this, my sisters and I always fight but at the end of the day family is all that matters to me.
Delete“Didn’t you all build that boat like you wrote you were gonna?”
ReplyDelete“He just said we would. We never did.”
I raised up on my elbow, facing Dill’s outline. “It’s no reason to run off. They don’t get around to doin‘ what they say they’re gonna do half the time...”
“That wasn’t it, he—they just wasn’t interested in me.” Pg 190
In this scene, Dill tells the reason why he ran away. He talks about how they say they care about him but they don't show that they cared about him.
In the world right now there are parents that don't seem to care much about their children. Dill feels the same way too. He feels like he's not getting the full time care he wants. If I were Dill I would probably do the same thing, if I had the courage.
Importance of family seems important in this chapter. If Dill's parents were aware of what Dill was thinking of they could of stopped him from running away. If Dill's new father built the boat with him he could of have some good memories with him. Another theme is the true definition of courage. I don't agree with running away from home 100% but I'm sure that you would need some courage to run away.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete“Atticus’s voice was even: Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She is a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.” ( bottom of page 182 and top of page 183)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus finally stood up to Aunt Alexandra after she said that Atticus no longer needed Calpurnia.
I strongly agree with Atticus sticking up for Calpurnia. I dont think it was right of Aunt Alexandra to just come in and say that Cal was no longer needed. Calpurnia was a mother figure to the kids and she really loved them. She watched them grow up and is apart of their family. I personally believe that sometimes nannies can really be like family members. I have a family friend who was a nanny. She was with the family for years and watched the two young boys grow up. The family moved away and she could not go with them. She was so upset and so was the family. They told her it was like losing a part of the family.
The theme that goes with this is the importance of family and home. Atticus stood up to Aunt Alexandra when it came to Calpurnia. He let her know that Calpurnia was apart of the family whether Aunt Alexandra wanted her to be or not and he would never tell her to leave. He even said that he believed that the kids have benefitted from having Calpurnia around. “She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.”
“… he rose and broke the remaining code of our childhood.” Page 187
ReplyDeleteScout narrates that she feels that Jem betrayed Dill by telling Atticus of his presence. Dill ran away from his home in Meridian, Mississippi because he felt neglected by his mother and stepfather. Dill wants to hide out at the Finch home without his family finding out, but Jem tells Atticus who will inform Miss Rachel, his aunt.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death from ages 10-24. Even today, many children and adolescents are too afraid to speak up in serious situations. Many times the child does not want to deceive their friend, which can lead to horrible things like suicide. There comes a time in every person’s life when they have to make the mature decision to get an adult. There are many warning signs portrayed before a person commits suicide, but some people chose to ignore these red flags when they should tell an adult. Everyday there are about 5,400 suicide attempts in our nation grades seventh through twelfth. If children would just speak up when a situation becomes very extreme like Jem did, we would have so many less suicides in our world.
This website shows the suicide statistics of youth today.
http://jasonfoundation.com/prp/facts/youth-suicide-statistics/
This scene connects to the theme of the importance of home and family. Jem matures throughout the book and especially in this scene he acts responsibly by telling Atticus of Dill’s company. This action shows that Jem was raised well and now he is able to good decisions by himself.
"'...and another thing. The children love her.'" page 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus argues with Alexandra about the actions of Calpurnia. Atticus being the tremendous arguer that he is brings up a phenomenal point; the children love Cal. It doesn't matter if she's black or Alexandra doesn't like her. She is a member of the Finch family.
After a grueling argument with his sister, Atticus realizes that it doesn't matter what Alexandra thinks of Calpurnia because she is a member of the family and the children love her. Many people throughout the world have housekeepers and can relate to all of what Atticus is saying. Housekeepers help families function and without them something would be missing. Not just a helping, but a family member. I know many friends with house keepers and can agree with Atticus on this note.
The theme that relates with this chapter is the importance of home and family. According to the Finch family, Calpurnia is apart of the family and Alexandra needs to learn to except that. Cal has been like a mother to Scout and Jem and Aunt Alexandra is just jealous that she is being outcompeted by a black woman.
“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been… she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Chapter 14 Page 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus defends Calpurnia because Alexandra, Atticus’ sister, believes that Calpurnia is not fit to be apart of the Finch household. Atticus shows that Calpurnia is more than just a house maid. She has helped raise Scout and Jem. She is a part of the Finch family no matter whose blood she has, and no matter what, she is there to stay. This expresses value in family and home, because Atticus values Cal as his own family member in hs own home, even though they’re not genetically related.
I know a family that has adopted many children from China, and all of their new family members are considered a part of the family. This showed me that people are more than just animals. They have feelings, love, and compassion. They look beyond their DNA and they accept people for who they are, not where they come from.
People adopt all the time all over the world, just like the people in this article http://www.people.com/article/nebraska-couple-adopts-eight-brothers-melissa-groves-scott
who had adopted 8 boys and loved them as their own.
“Atticus’s voice was even: Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She is a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. Besides sister, I don't want you working your head off for us you’ve no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.” (End of page 182 and top of 183)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus made his point clear to Aunt Alexandra that he needed Calpurnia and so did the kids.
The themes that connect to this scene are the importance of home and family. Calpurnia is not officially part of the family but in my mind she is. She is very important to Atticus and the kids. Calpurnia is basically the mother of the family. Calpurnia has watched them grow up and has taken care of them. Aunt Alexandra can think what she wants but Atticus made it clear that she will never be leaving unless she wants too. On page 183 Atticus says… and another thing, the children love her”. Atticus knows the importance of family and I think he knows he is doing the right thing. It’s just not right to let somebody go who you have basically spent a big chunk of your life with.
I agree with Atticus, one of my best friends has a nanny and I still know her today. She was very nice and has been with that family for over 10 years and counting. She helped raise the two kids and even helped me and my sister in a way also. I think it is very important to keep Calpurnia because the lessons that she has taught the kids helped them shape into the people they are today. Same for me, I learned lessons from my friends nanny that I still remember today. A bond like that is something very special and that is one that Calpurnia shares with Atticus and the kids.
Atticus turned his head and pinned me to the wall with his good eye. His voice was deadly: "First, apologize to your tour aunt."
ReplyDelete"I'm sorry, Aunty," I muttered.
"Now then" he said. "Lets get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt's in this house, you will do as she tells you. Understand?"
In this scene Atticus argues with Scout because he doesn't do what Aunty Alexandra says and he doesn't respect her. It was to teach Scout a lesson.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. Atticus shows Scout that you should respect the people that care for you and treat them like you want to be treated. He also shows him that he should respect his piers.
“Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are.” page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is explaining to Aunt Alexandra, his sister, that Calpurnia is not just his help. She is a part of the family. Without Calpurnia, Atticus would have had a difficult time managing his children, Jem and Scout, on his own. She has been with them ever since Atticus’ wife died.
I had a nanny for many years when I was younger. I understand what Atticus is saying because I thought of my nanny as a part of my family, like he thinks of Cal as part of his family. My nanny helped raise me and made the life of my parents a lot easier. Also, I am surprised that Atticus has become so close with Calpurnia in such a racist time period. Most people during this time of segregation would take advantage of their help and treat them with little respect. This shows what kind of a person Atticus truly is.
This scene in the book is represented by two themes, the true definition of courage and the importance of home and family. Atticus is courageous because he is standing up to his sister rather than letting her boss him around. She is repeatedly telling everyone what to do and Atticus finally gives her his opinion. Atticus tells Alexandra that he believes that Calpurnia completes the Finch family. Without her, his life and his childrens lives would be very different.
ReplyDelete“Why do you reckon Boo Radley’s never run off?” -Dill sighed a long and turned away from me. “Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to….” Pg: 192 L: 15
In this scene Dill says that he and Scout should get themselves a baby, and tells her a story about where babies come from he starts to said beautiful things that floated around in his dreamy head, Scout thinks that dill could read two books to my one, but he preferred the magic of his inventions.
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage first Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father. Dill is showing the way that he is growing by not believing more in stories that all in Maycomb said about Boo Radley’s, Dill is accepting that maybe Boo was in the same position that he was, but this time Boo doesn't has friends like Atticus , he understands that Arthur is very lonely and just do not feel like running away, because he doesn't have a family, and Scout also is showing that he grow up too because she didn’t contradict the words that Dill said.
ReplyDelete“Why do you reckon Boo Radley’s never run off?” -Dill sighed a long and turned away from me. “Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to….” Pg: 192 L: 15
In this scene Dill says that he and Scout should get themselves a baby, and tells her a story about where babies come from he starts to said beautiful things that floated around in his dreamy head, Scout thinks that dill could read two books to my one, but he preferred the magic of his inventions.
The themes that connect to this scene are the meaning of courage first Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father. Dill is showing the way that he is growing by not believing more in stories that all in Maycomb said about Boo Radley’s, Dill is accepting that maybe Boo was in the same position that he was, but this time Boo doesn't has friends like Atticus , he understands that Arthur is very lonely and just do not feel like running away, because he doesn't have a family, and Scout also is showing that he grow up too because she didn’t contradict the words that Dill said.
I completely agree with you, Karen that Dill run away of his house because he had problems with his mother and his step father and his parents promised the people that they would take care of the problem. Maybe because of this crime, no one would be willing to help him enough so that he could run away.
Delete."Alexandra, Calpurnia's not leaving this house until she wants to. You may think otherwise, but I couldn't have got along without her all these years. She's a faithful member of this family and you'll simply have to accept things the way they are." Page 137
ReplyDeleteAtticus speaks first of Calpurnia not as reliable help, but as a member of the family. In saying this, he announces that Calpurnia is his equal and will not be budged on the point.
I think Jem, lets us know that he is aware of the difficulties Atticus is facing with the Tom Robinson trial. Atticus, among the many traits he exhibits, is the children's moral compass. His defense of Calpurnia reflects the moral integrity Atticus lives his life by, and that which he shares by example with Scout and Jem.
The theme connects to the importance of home and family. This shows the importance of close family friends. Just because a person is not biologically related to you doesn't mean they can't be family. I personally have close friends in my life that are my family. Family is key to survival, whether they're related to you or not.
“What’s rape?” Chapter 14, page 180
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is sitting in a chair reading the paper after dinner. Scout asks him a seemingly simple question and Atticus tells her that it is the carnal knowledge of a female without her consent but, this quote represents so much more.
This quote shows how every kid has to grow up at one point. Scout is so innocent and naive, she thinks she has a permanent fiance and everything is all just fun and games for her, but then stuff like this enters a child’s life and they are forever changed. I can connect to this because a while a sex-offender moved into the general area of the district and we got letters sent home about it in Middle School. My younger sister found it and read it, she then proceeded to ask my parents, “what’s a sex-offender” and from that moment on she was changed forever. As Mrs. Sarna has said in class every kid has that one moment when they realize people are very bad and they lose their innocence. That pertains very well to this situation.
This quote connects to the theme of the importance of home and family. It connects to this theme because Scout is able to turn to her family when faced with something she does not know and they help her with it. They help her grown up, which is very important. It shows that without family we would be ignorant but, they help us to get through the cloudy spots of life.
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ReplyDelete"Alexandria, Calpurnia is not leaving this house until she wants to..." page 182.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is having a chat with Alexandria. She is trying to say why Calpurnia should leave and why she is not needed anymore, because she was just used to take care of Jem and Scout when they were young and that she was not needed anymore.
In my opinion, I feel that this can connect to the damage done by racism. Because Calpurnia was African-American, she was thought less than she was actually worth(at the time the story was written).
Racism is still a big problem today, and I feel that the race marches did not abolish slavery, because discrimination based on race is still a large problem in todays society.
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ReplyDelete"'Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from having her brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been. . . she’s never let them get away with anything, she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried bringing them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.'" Page 183
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus and Aunt Alexandra disagree on whether or not they should keep Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra thinks that they don't need Calpurnia there to help out anymore. Atticus refuses to agree with and explains how Calpurnia has a positive influence on Jem and Scout.
I strongly agree with Atticus. It's ironic how Aunt Alexandra thinks Calpurnia isn't needed to help out anymore, yet I feel that Aunt Alexandra isn't need to help out anymore. Besides that she in fact have a positive influence over the kids, she also has become apart of the family. She has known the family from Finch's Landing, and has been with Atticus since. Aunt Alexandra is trying to solve things that aren't a problem to begin with. Most importantly, she took over the role of Scout and Jem's mother, since she passed away when they were very young. Having that mother-figure is important, and Calpurnia has been successful in taking their mom's place.
This section connects to the theme of home and family. Calpurnia is apart of the family now. Calpurnia completes the family, since their mother is gone. She has taught Jem and Scout many important lessons. Family doesn't always have to mean blood-line relatives, rather people who you love and mean a lot to you.
"Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, youre an easy man, but you have a daughter whos growing up." Page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Scout left to the bathroom and Jem was on the couch with a football magazine and Atticus and his sister were talking about whats the problem with letting her go and Scout was hearing from far away and she was nervous that they were talking about her. The sister of Atticus said that shes growing up and its time to let her go. Atticus doesnt want her to leave until she wants. Atticus says thet shes an important person in the family.
Atticus doesnt want to let go of Scout and shes growing up but he probably sees her as alittle girl and doesnt think shes ready to leave on her own.
This happens alot when graduates go off to college and there parents dont want to let them go because they see them as young kids. This scene is very relatible to parents.
The
"Why do you reckon Boo Radley's never run off?"
ReplyDelete"Maybe he doesn't have anywhere to run off to..." (Page 192)
This conversation between Scout and Dill takes place while Scout and Dill are discussing his homelife and why he ran off and how they should get a baby.
In this historical,period, individuals with mental illness were shunned by society and not treated medically for their condition. In fact, the entire subject was often taboo. Boo Radley spent most of his adult life hidden in his parent's home and is not permitted to interact with anyone. He is not afforded the same civil rights and freedom that Scout and Dill enjoy and take for granted.
This resonates with one of our themes: is there justice for all in the United States? Clearly, Boo Radley's life could have been totally different if doctors and family had taken the time to determine what motivated him to behave the way he did. Neighbors label him a maniac without understanding his entire story. Today, individuals with mental illness are greeted with more sympathy and with greater forethought. Howevr, there still exists an uneasiness in this country when discussing this and mentally ill individuals may feel like a virtual Boo Radley in some respects. So, is there really justice for all in the United States?
“‘You oughta let your mother know where you are,’ said Jem. ‘You oughta let her know you’re here...’ Dill’s eyes flickered at Jem, and Jem looked at the floor. Then he rose and broke the remaining code of our childhood. He went out of the room and down the hall. ‘Atticus,’ his voice was distant, ‘can you come here a minute, sir?’” Pages 187-188.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Jem goes against Dill’s wishes and tells his father about the situation with Dill and how he ran away from his home.
A theme that can connect to this scene is the difficult transition into adulthood. This isn’t a theme listed on the sheet, but it’s put into play many times throughout the book with Jem, and this scene is an example. In this part of the book, Jem must decide whether to stay true to his values and tell his father of the situation or to respect Dill’s request to keep his secret. With becoming an adult, becoming more responsible comes with it, but what is responsibility? It’s different for everyone, and the process of figuring out what responsibility means to you is what marks the transition of adulthood. Jem is currently in this transition, and is now deciding what a responsible friend is. Is it someone who respects his friend’s wishes or someone who tells an adult of the situation in attempt to make it better despite his friend’s objections? In this example, he chooses the second option.
I agree with Jem’s decision to tell his father about Dill’s whereabouts. Jem has experienced more in his lifetime and is figuring out right from wrong, whereas Dill isn’t quite there yet and would much rather hide his situation than face it. I have done the same thing as Jem where my brother told me to keep a secret, but I told my parents anyways because it was necessary for them to be informed about the situation he had told me since I couldn’t help him on my own. He was afraid to tell my parents. He was afraid that they’d get angry, but he was young and didn’t realize how much of a benefit it was to be open about his problem. It was difficult for me to go against my brother’s wish of me keeping his secret, but I had to decide what being a responsible sister meant to me, and that meant telling my parents to further benefit my brother.
“Let’s get this clear, you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long as your aunt’s in this house you will do what she tells you to.” Page 182
ReplyDeleteAtticus is scolding Scout in this scene for talking back to Alexandra for saying that she could not go back to church with Cal. Scout is not happy and is very argumentative.
In comparison to today, this is very similar to how parents act. I know from experience that if I talk back to my mom of my dad, I will get scolded. This shows that even though so much had changed from The Great Depression to today, some things will always be the same. I can relate this when adults let their kids talk back to them and then take away privileges. My brother likes to argue with my parents, and always thinks he is right. He has talked back to them for years, and they have finally gotten tired of it. So, whenever he talks back, he loses his phone for a certain amount of time, depending on the severity of his offense.
This can relate to the theme of the importance of family. Although this may not seem like a family moment, Atticus is teaching Scout a valuable lesson. He is teaching her the real life skill of not talking back to someone who holds power over you. This can be useful in the workplace, when your superior says something that you disagree with, but cannot say anything about. Atticus teaches Scout this now so she won't have to learn it the hard way in the future. Atticus is doing one of the greatest things a parent can do a for a child, he is teaching her.
“Who started it?” asked Atticus, in resignation.
ReplyDelete“Jem did he was tryin’ to tell me what to do. I don’t have to mind him now, do I?”
Atticus smiled. “Let’s leave it at this: you mind Jem whenever he can make you. Fair enough?” page 185
This exchange between Atticus and Scout occurred in the evening after a physical altercation between Jem and Scout. Earlier Atticus sternly reprimanded Scout and told her that she must mind both Cal and Aunt Alexandra. Jem took this further when he and Scout were talking privately in his room when he included himself as someone Scout needed to mind.
This is another situation I can relate to as the younger sibling. Often my older sister has tried to assert her perceived authority over me. My mother often reminded her that her primary responsibility was to look out for me, but if she truly wanted me to have to listen to her she needed to take complete and total responsibility for me and every aspect of my care.
“‘The thing is, what I’m tryin’ to say is- they do get on a lot better without me, I can’t help them any. They ain’t mean. They buy me everything I want, but it’s now- you’ve-got-it-go-play-with-it. You’ve got a room full of things. I-got-you-that-book-so-go-read-it.’” Page 191.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Dill is explaining to Scout how he doesn’t enjoy not having his family around, while Scout believes that that would be so nice.
I do not personally connect to this, but I have friends who do. They have parents who constantly of a work-mindset. They’re never focused on family; it’s always all about work. My friends are left with nanny after nanny, but a nanny simply doesn’t connect to children as well as their mother or father would. They’re parents spoil them with technology, toys, and everything they could ever ask for, except one thing: love. They leave this void in their hearts. They feel unwanted and uncared for because their parents hardly make the effort to ask about their day or congratulate them on their achievements. Dill also feels unwanted and uncared for by his parents, and these negative emotions builds up inside of him to a point where can’t take it anymore and runs away.
A theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family. If a child doesn’t feel wanted in his/her own family, this could lead to depression and many other issues. It’s essential for children to have families who love and care for them so that they can grow up in a healthy environment with reliable adults to aid them through their lives. Dill was passed around from family member to family member because there was nobody who would take him in. Imagine being a child in that situation? Wouldn’t you feel alone and abandoned? When he finally believed he had family he could trust and who would care for him, his mom and step-dad, they paid minimal attention to him, which made the emptiness in his heart even larger. The hole in his heart eventually became large enough that he decided to run away to the only people he knew cared about him: Jem and Scout.
“Atticus, its alright to be soft-hearted, you're an easy man, but you have a daughter to think of. A daughter whose growing up.” page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus and his sister are talking and Scout has gone to the bathroom. When Jem Is on her way back she stops and overhears their conversation and the sister of Atticus is saying that theres nothing wrong with letting her go and that Atticus is holding on to her to long and that shes growing up . Scout is nervous because she thinks that they may be talking about her. Jem is sitting on the couch reading a football magazine. Atticus says that no Scout will leave the house when she chooses to.
I Think Atticus said that because he doesn't think Scout is ready to leave the house. Maybe Atticus sees Scout as a little girl still and doesnt think shes ready to leave.
This Scene is relatable to a lot of parents whose children have graduated and are leaving off to college and their parents don't think they're ready to leave and probably see them as young kids.
ReplyDelete“Besides, I don’t think the children’ve suffered one bit from her having brought them up. If anything, she’s been harder on them in some ways than a mother would have been…she’s never indulged them the way most colored nurses do. She tried to bring them up according to her lights, and Cal’s lights are pretty good- and another thing, the children love her.” Page 183.
In this scene, Aunt Alexandra and Atticus are arguing about Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra believes that they don't need Calpurnia anymore but Atticus insists that they do because she is part of the family.
I strongly agree with Atticus's decision to keep Calpurnia because she is part of the family. She's helped Scout and Jem develop into the people they are and have taught them values and important life lessons. Someone who lives with you occasionally and is constantly in your home may not be blood related but they bond you form with somebody like Calpurnia is what makes them family. I personally did not have a nanny when I was growing up but I assume that kids bond with their nanny and love them as a mother. This would be even more true in Jem and Scout's case because they do not have a mother.
This scene relates to the theme of the importance of family. Atticus stuck by Calpurnia because he knows she is apart of his family and that she is very important to Scout and Jem. Calpurnia has had such an impact in Jem and Scout's lives and has been a mother to them. Calpurnia is very important to their family and she is very important to them.
"Now then, let's get this clear: you do as Calpurnia tells you, you do as I tell you, and as long your aunt's in this house , you will do as she tells you. Understand?" Page 182
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is telling Scout that she need to respect her Aunt Alexandra. After asking Atticus' permission to go to Calpurnia's house next Sunday afternoon, Aunt Alexandra was the one who responded and she said no. Scout talks back at her saying that she wasn't asking her. and that's when Atticus scolded her.
I do agree with Atticus. I do agree that she should respect her aunt, but I don't agree with Aunt Alexandra when she says no to letting Scout go to Calpurnia's house. Atticus has a point, no matter what Aunt Alexandra will always be family, besides she is there to be a female influence for Scout. She there to help raise her.
This scene relates to the theme the importance of family. Atticus is teaching Scout to respect and listen to her aunt. After all Aunt Alexandra is to help with Scout, so she has the right to make decisions for Scout.