Dialogue

Use of Authentic Language

Harper Lee uses dialogue to reflect how people from Alabama in the 1930s spoke.

Examples of Authentic Expressions:

"She likes Jem better'n she likes me..."

• Better'n = better than.

"You little folks won't tell on me now, will you? It'd ruin my reputation if you did."

• It'd = it would.

"Take a good sip, it'll quieten you."

• It'll = it will.

"I told you that if you hadn't lost your head I'd have made you go read to her."

• Hadn't = had not; I'd = I would.

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Word Order

The dialogue captures the natural flow of speech in the Southern dialect.

Example:

"There ain't no need to fear a cootie, ma'am."

• Ain't no = is not; ma'am = madam.

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Purpose of Dialogue

• Adds realism: Reflects the cultural and social setting of Maycomb.
• Character development: Reveals personalities and attitudes of the characters.
• Highlights themes: Such as prejudice, innocence, and community dynamics.

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