To Kill a Mockingbird Hypocrisy Analysis

Hypocrisy in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

In Harper Lee’s book To Kill a Mockingbird, we see the theme of hypocrisy played out, especially through this character, Mrs. Merriweather. Through what she says and how she acts, Lee makes it clear just how much hypocrisy is swirling around in Maycomb's society. This essay takes a closer look at when Mrs. Merriweather shows her hypocritical side and what that means for everyone involved. By digging into what hypocrisy really is and how it affects both people and their community, it's pretty clear that Lee wants to call out society's moral failings. The hypocrites that Mrs. Merriweather mentions are perfect examples of the widespread double standards that are alive and well in Maycomb.

Mrs. Merriweather’s Thoughts on the Missionary Circle

Alright, let's dive into what Mrs. Merriweather has to say about the Missionary Circle first off. This group is made up of women who love to brag about their religious beliefs and charity work but often act in ways that don’t match up with those morals at all. Isn't that something? Lee uses this disconnect to shine a light on the hypocrisy within religious circles. There’s a part in the book where she calls out “...hypocrites, Mrs. Perkins, Mrs. Buford, Mrs. Gates, and...” (Lee, 163). This line points directly to folks known as hypocrites in the Missionary Circle, suggesting that even so-called devout Christians can be guilty of hypocrisy—pretty bold stuff if you ask me!

Mrs. Merriweather’s Critique of Atticus Finch

Then there’s how Mrs. Merriweather talks about Atticus Finch—she isn't exactly singing his praises! She actually calls him a hypocrite because he defends Tom Robinson, who’s accused of some serious stuff like rape and happens to be black. According to her, Atticus is straying from Maycomb's societal norms, which kinda gets under her skin. There's this quote: “I tell you there are some good but misguided people in this town” (Lee, 234). Here, Mrs. Merriweather shows she disapproves of Atticus for not towing the racist community line; she thinks he should just fall in line instead of challenging what's expected.

Her Take on the Cunninghams

And don't forget her take on the Cunninghams! They're a poor family in town and according to her, they’re hypocrites too because they turn down charity yet accept government aid—go figure! She goes as far as saying “...I simply don’t have the time or the inclination to get involved with them…” (Lee, 238). With this comment, it seems like she's judging them harshly for not accepting certain help but taking other forms—it exposes some classist attitudes rampant in Maycomb.

In wrapping it all up: Harper Lee gives us a look at hypocrisy mainly through Mrs. Merriweather's eyes in To Kill a Mockingbird. Whether it's about those 'holier-than-thou' members of her circle or calling out Atticus or critiquing families like the Cunninghams—it all shows Maycomb's moral weak spots big time! So yeah, Lee uses these moments as critiques against religious communities' double standards or warped societal norms and class-based attitudes—not shying away from pointing fingers at what's broken around here!

References

• Lee, H. (1960). To Kill a Mockingbird. New York: HarperCollins.
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