To Kill a Mockingbird: The Power of Conscience

Harper Lee’s novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, explores the theme that "the one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience." This profound statement, repeated several times throughout the text, highlights the importance of individual moral judgment in the face of societal pressure. Through the character of Atticus Finch, Lee demonstrates the significance of listening to one's conscience, even when it goes against the prevailing beliefs of the community. This essay will delve into the implications of this theme, examining how the characters in the novel grapple with the conflict between their conscience and the expectations of society.

The Power of Individual Moral Judgment

The character of Atticus Finch serves as the moral compass of the novel, embodying the idea that an individual’s conscience should guide their actions. Throughout the story, Atticus consistently demonstrates his commitment to justice and equality, even in the face of widespread prejudice. He defends Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of rape, despite knowing that his efforts are unlikely to sway the biased jury. Atticus believes that doing what is right is more important than conforming to societal norms.

Atticus's unwavering commitment to his conscience is evident in his conversations with his children, Jem and Scout. He teaches them the importance of empathy and understanding, urging them to consider the perspectives of others before passing judgment. Atticus's words and actions instill in his children a sense of moral responsibility and a deep appreciation for the power of conscience.

Furthermore, Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson is not only an act of personal conviction but also a critique of the majority rule. The town of Maycomb, Alabama, is steeped in racism and prejudice, making it difficult for Atticus to sway the jury's opinion. Despite this, he persists, knowing that justice must prevail, regardless of the prevailing beliefs of the community. Atticus's unwavering commitment to his conscience challenges the notion that the majority's opinion is always right.

The Consequences of Ignoring Conscience

In contrast to Atticus's moral fortitude, characters like Bob Ewell embody the consequences of ignoring one's conscience. Ewell, driven by his personal prejudices and desire for revenge, accuses Tom Robinson of a crime he did not commit. Ewell's actions not only lead to the wrongful conviction and death of an innocent man but also perpetuate the cycle of injustice and hatred within the town of Maycomb.

Ewell's disregard for his conscience and the truth ultimately leads to his own downfall. In a desperate attempt to seek revenge on Atticus, he attacks Jem and Scout, but is ultimately killed in the struggle. Lee's portrayal of Ewell as a villain highlights the destructive power of ignoring one's conscience and the devastating consequences it can have on individuals and society as a whole.

Similarly, the character of Aunt Alexandra represents the dangers of conforming to societal expectations at the expense of personal values. Alexandra, driven by her desire to maintain the family's reputation, pressures Scout to conform to traditional gender roles. She attempts to mold Scout into a proper Southern lady, disregarding Scout's individuality and personal interests. This conflict between Scout's conscience and the expectations of society causes her great distress, as she grapples with the need to be true to herself while also fitting into the world around her.

The Importance of Conscience in Overcoming Prejudice

Lee's exploration of conscience extends beyond the individual level and delves into the broader issue of prejudice. Through the character of Boo Radley, a recluse who is misunderstood and feared by the townspeople, Lee demonstrates the power of conscience in overcoming prejudice.

Initially, Boo Radley is depicted as a mysterious and potentially dangerous figure, with rumors and gossip swirling around him. However, as the story unfolds, Scout and Jem come to realize that Boo is not the monster he is made out to be. They see his acts of kindness and compassion, such as leaving gifts for them in a tree and saving their lives in the final confrontation with Bob Ewell.

By challenging the prejudices of the community, Scout and Jem demonstrate the transformative power of conscience. They learn to look beyond appearances and consider the individual's character, ultimately breaking down the barriers of prejudice that divide Maycomb. Lee's portrayal of Boo Radley serves as a reminder that it is our conscience, rather than the majority's opinion, that should guide our judgments.

Conclusion

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee highlights the power of individual conscience in the face of societal pressure. Through the character of Atticus Finch, Lee demonstrates the importance of following one's moral judgment, even when it goes against the prevailing beliefs of the community. The consequences of ignoring one's conscience, as illustrated through characters like Bob Ewell and Aunt Alexandra, serve as a cautionary tale. Lee's exploration of prejudice and the transformative power of conscience, as seen through the character of Boo Radley, further emphasizes the significance of individual moral judgment in shaping a just and equitable society. As Atticus wisely notes, "the one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience," reminding us of the inherent value and power of our own moral compass.

Bibliography

Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. HarperCollins Publishers, 1960.