2019 Year 12 IB Extended Essays

Discussion – Comparing and Contrasting the Novels Throughout both novels, the authors highlight the concept of conformity – the “adherence to norm and role expectations” (Willis, 1961). As a result, this demonstrates the mindset that people feel obligated to have the same beliefs and values as other people in their community. This is reflected throughout the community of Maycomb and Jackson. Race is a prominent factor in To Kill A Mockingbird and The Help that influences the community’s beliefs on who is accepted as members of the community. In both novels, African Americans are believed to be inferior to white people; instead of living with the white people, they are forced to live on the outskirts of Maycomb and Jackson with poorer quality living conditions, educational opportunities and work. The transgressive behaviours expressed by Atticus and Skeeter – both of whom are privileged people - who take risks by breaking down the boundaries of acceptance by helping the victims of prejudice in their respective towns. Although this essay has identified the transgression of Atticus and Skeeter, it can be argued that both of their investments into the lives of African American members of their community was out of selfish reasons. Atticus states the reasons for being Robinson’s lawyer: “’For a number of reasons,’ said Atticus. ‘The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this country in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again” (pg.83). This quote signifies to the reader that Atticus supported the trial to save his face and reputation. Through the reader admiring the work of Atticus, they themselves become accessories to the objectification of Tom Robinson. After the death of Robinson, the reader fails to fully acknowledge his passing, thus like the citizens of Maycomb, the reader treats him in a dishonourable way. Overshadowed by Atticus’s valiant act, the

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