Harper Lee's depiction of the family in the deep South of
the United States is certainly a realistic one, although in some ways the Finch family
is not typical, especially with Atticus's leniency in how the children address him and
in his liberal attitudes about many things. Yet, the importance of family loyalty is one
trait that is greatly stressed in Southern families and the Finches clearly exemplify
this attribute. Even when she does not agree with her brother's action of defending Tom
Robinson, for instance, Aunt Alexandra will hear no disparagement of him. For, she is
grateful when Miss Maudie cuts short the innuendos against Atticus by Mrs.
Merriweather who attends the missionary tea. Likewise, Scout and Jem's loyal actions of
speaking up for their father at the jailhouse and when Atticus is in the front lawn with
many men demonstrate the strong family ties that they have. The fondness for their maid
Calpurnia, who acts as a surrogate mother to Jem and Scout is very credible, especially
since the mother has died. And, that she would scold and spank Scout is also within the
realm of the norm for Southern families of the time of the
setting.
Also, in the families such as the Finches, pride
in their lineage is not untypical. Aunt Alexandra's insistence upon Scout's wearing
dresses and adhering to certain standards of behavior is consistent with the area and
type of family in which the Finches live, as well. Again, it is Atticus's more
nonchalant attitude that is not typical.
In her depiction
of families, Harper Lee, is certainly realistic in her illustration of the Cunninghams
and even the Ewell family, too. The poor, but honest Mr. Cunningham and his son Walter
illustrate well the many American families that suffered during the Great Depression.
The dysfunctional Ewells who live by the garbage dump typlify the poor white trash
family of the deep South. These are probably the despicable progeny of the indentured
servants and criminals who were sent or migrated from the British Isles to such places
as Georgia's penal colony and its neighbor state, Alabama.
No comments:
Post a Comment