Mrs Dubose Character Analysis

Mrs. Henry Lafayette Dubose is a complex and intriguing character in Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. Although she only appears in a few chapters, her presence has a significant impact on the narrative and the development of the protagonist, Scout Finch. Mrs. Dubose is a cantankerous, elderly woman who lives near the Finch family and becomes a source of both fear and fascination for Scout and her brother, Jem. Through her interactions with the Finch children, Mrs. Dubose reveals herself to be a woman of great strength, resilience, and moral complexity. In this essay, I will analyze Mrs. Dubose's character, exploring her motivations, her relationships with the Finch children, and the significance of her role in the novel.

Mrs. Dubose's character is introduced in the novel as a mean and bitter old woman who often shouts insults at the children as they pass by her house. Initially, the reader is led to believe that Mrs. Dubose is simply a cruel and unpleasant person. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that there is more to her character than meets the eye. Despite her harsh exterior, Mrs. Dubose is revealed to be a woman of great inner strength and courage. This is demonstrated through her battle with addiction to morphine, which she bravely confronts and overcomes before her death. This revelation challenges the reader's initial perception of Mrs. Dubose and prompts a deeper consideration of her character.

One of the most significant aspects of Mrs. Dubose's character is her relationship with the Finch children. At first, she seems to take pleasure in tormenting them, but as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that her behavior is motivated by a desire to teach them important lessons about morality and courage. Mrs. Dubose's harsh words and strict demeanor are meant to instill in the children a sense of discipline and integrity. While her methods may seem cruel, they ultimately serve as a valuable learning experience for Scout and Jem, helping them to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature.

Furthermore, Mrs. Dubose's character serves as a symbol of the moral and ethical challenges faced by the residents of Maycomb. Her struggle with addiction and her determination to overcome it reflect the pervasive presence of social and moral decay in the town. By portraying Mrs. Dubose as a woman who is able to confront and conquer her personal demons, Lee highlights the theme of moral courage and the importance of standing up for one's convictions, even in the face of adversity. Mrs. Dubose's character thus serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit, even in the most challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, Mrs. Dubose is a complex and compelling character whose significance extends far beyond her initial portrayal as a cantankerous old woman. Through her relationships with the Finch children, her battle with addiction, and her role as a symbol of moral courage, Mrs. Dubose emerges as a multifaceted and thought-provoking figure in To Kill a Mockingbird. Her character challenges the reader to consider the complexities of human nature and the moral challenges faced by the residents of Maycomb. Mrs. Dubose's presence in the novel serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit and the importance of moral integrity. By delving into the complexities of Mrs. Dubose's character, we gain a deeper understanding of the novel's themes and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters.

Bibliography

• Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. HarperCollins, 2015.