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Choose a novel or short story you have studied - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2013
Question 1
Choose a novel or short story you have studied. (a) In your view, is the world portrayed in the novel or short story that you have chosen, a fair world? Give reason... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Choose a novel or short story you have studied - Junior Cycle English - Question 1 - 2013
Step 1
In your view, is the world portrayed in the novel or short story that you have chosen, a fair world? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer
The world portrayed in the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is not entirely a fair world. The story is set in the racially charged atmosphere of 1930s Alabama, where profound injustices highlight the societal divide. Discrimination against African-Americans is rampant, evidenced through the wrongful accusation of Tom Robinson, an innocent black man. This systemic racism illustrates that fairness is overshadowed by deep-rooted prejudice, thereby making the world depicted in the novel largely unfair.
Furthermore, social class inequalities also contribute to this lack of fairness. The Finch family, while morally upright, faces the societal backlash for defending Tom. This showcases an unfair world where integrity and justice are sidelined by communal biases.
Step 2
Using an important incident from the story, explain how the actions of any one character help to make the world more fair or less fair in your chosen text. Support your answer with reference to your chosen text.
Answer
An essential incident that exemplifies this theme occurs during Tom Robinson's trial. Atticus Finch, as Tom's defense attorney, stands as a beacon of moral strength. Despite knowing the societal implications and potential backlash, Atticus commits to defending Tom with honesty and integrity. His actions serve to challenge the prevailing racial injustices of the time.
By providing logical arguments and eyewitness accounts that contradict the accusations against Tom, Atticus fights against the unfairness that permeates the courtroom. However, despite his efforts, the jury's decision remains a reflection of the community's biases, ultimately resulting in an unfair outcome. This incident highlights the struggle between individual morality and societal injustice, illustrating how Atticus's character, while striving for fairness, still faces insurmountable societal obstacles.