Diego’s Comments (group member since Jan 25, 2012)

Diego’s comments from the Hollinger: 1 Spring 2012 group.

@Danny & Marianna (about answer #1)

I see where both of you are coming from...
Marianna, I agree with your response. After understanding that the word "mockingbird" was being used as a symbol to some characters, I thought it was an awesome title, and it helps you inderstand a big moral of the story and what the problem or conflict is mainly about... (IMOpinion) It is about our relationship with society, and how it can alter us. Jem is a prefect example of that. After the judge declares Robinson guilty, Jem's innocent mind becomes corrupted, and he begins a journey of doubt, "I used to think Maycomb folk were the best in the world, least taht's what they seemed like..." But Danny I agree that the title might have been phrased in a misleading way.

@ Marianna (about answer #2)

Mr. Raymond was a good character too. I didn't put him in my answer but I admired him for being able to overcome the prejudice and discrimination against race, and it was good to have another adult character besides Atticus to in a way represent the shift in racial laws and discrimination that was coming in the future. And I like Atticus too, because he's like a wise old bearded philosopher. He's like the Dumbledore from HPotter or Yoda, knowing what the right paths are and choosing to fight for their cause.

1. Mockingbirds in the book were referred to as people that have been scarred by their society, family, and world. Throughtout Atticus' sturggle to defend Tom Robinson, he explains to Scout that "it's a sin to kill a mockingbird." He was talking about Tom Robinson, but other characters symbolized by mockingbirds are Jem, and Boo.
2. My favorite characters are Scout and Boo. Scout has that spirited, care-free, and witty attitude, but she's loyal, and knows the ethics behind a situation. And Boo I liked because the kids were so interested in finding out what was his deal, and I thought there would be a whole sort of backstory to Boo (and there was), and he saves the day in the end.
3. I do think that the characters are good once you see them. I think that many people have just had experiences that makes them lose a little bit of good. And it depends on the time period and the social and racial situations they were having. If I was from that time and I'd been raised to think of black people in a demeaning way, I don't doubt I would have too. I think in modern times though, what we hear, know, or think about other people is mostly negative, and it's tough to build respect or trust in others. I don't think I would be able to see the good in someone like Mr. Finch.