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101 To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Titles & Examples

If you struggle to find “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay topics on prejudice, race, the characters’ courage, or any other issue, look no further. Our team has prepared a list of titles and essay writing tips for this book.

🏆 Best To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics & Examples

📌 most interesting to kill a mockingbird essay titles, 👍 good to kill a mockingbird research topics, ❓ to kill a mockingbird essay questions.

Before we will talk about the do’s and don’ts in essay writing, let’s clarify the types of essay.

When working on “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay thesis, you can focus on the facts of the book or concentrate on your attitude towards its key issues and characters. According to your approach, we can divide essays into two main areas:

• Objective essay: you set out your personal thoughts on a chosen issue and provide supporting arguments and evidence;
• Subjective essay: you express your point of view on a specific topic without claiming the truth and strengthening it with facts.

For example, when you choose a “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay topics on goodness, you will state that Atticus is a kind and fearless. No doubt that this character has a positive role.

On the other hand, when you describe Mayella, you will have to choose: will you condemn her or express pity.

As for the essay content, it can be divided into many subcategories:

• Philosophical essay
• Critical essay
• Literary analysis
• Historical essay, etc.

There are also a few key literary types:

• Feature article, etc.

Do’s & Don’ts When Writing To Kill a Mockingbird Essays

Now, it’s time to talk about what you should write and what to avoid in your paper. First of all, you have to remember that all “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay titles should reveal the essence of the issue.

Recommendations for essay writing:

• Do mark your essay subject at the beginning of the text. “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay hooks will help you to catch the reader’s attention. Don’t forget to emphasize the central issue in the conclusion.
• Do support the style of presentation by your emotions, vision, and opinion. Use the “question-answer” in paragraphs. Make the transitions between paragraphs harmonious and smooth.
• Do use quotes, historical facts, and observations to argue the thesis statement, solve the main issue, and describe the key subject of the paper.
• Do stick to the central thesis of your essay. Avoid deepen into philosophical reflections — tell about concrete facts and examples. Here’s an example: don’t include the facts from the author’s biography if you focus on the events of the book and factors that affect discrimination.
• Do proofread the paper. Read carefully your essay several times and think if your readers will understand your expressions.
• Do not use specific terminology in “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay. For example, when you write about discrimination, you don’t necessarily have to provide its dictionary definition or use complex law, historical and psychological literature, and samples. Just your own language. However, it doesn’t mean that your opinion should seem ungrounded.
• Do add your emotions to the paper. Let your readers feel that you believe in your ideas when defending the essay thesis.
• Don’t choose the header before you write an essay. First, you should write an essay, and only then compile the title of your paper.

Well, now you know about the essay types, what to do, and what to avoid in your essay. Of course, you may ask: “What to write in my own essay?”

The key to success is to start. Check “To Kill a Mockingbird” essay examples on our website to get inspiration. Even the topic seems to you too complicated, start your research, and then you will be able to express new and original thoughts.

• Slavery in To Kill a Mockingbird Novel The introduction of Tom by the author is a plot device to represent the plight of the slaves in the state.
• “To Kill a Mockingbird”: Book and Movie Differences It is important to note that the film, To Kill a Mockingbird entails most of the aspects depicted in the novel.
• To Kill a Mockingbird Main Themes The main themes of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird cover both adult and children’s concerns, including the dignity of human life, the importance of truth, the rights of people to be different, the need […]
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962) by Robert Mulligan This movie presented a timely reflection of the extent of deep racial problems and social injustices existing in the southern part of the US in the early 60s.
• Novel Appreciation: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee The contemporary discussion of this novel is often tied to the question of racism; nevertheless, I am convinced that this book can be of great interest to modern readers, and I would like to discuss […]
• To Kill a Mockingbird: Movie Analysis Speaking of the movements which convey the essence of the film without any speech “intrusion”, it would be a good idea to drive the example of Boo Radley standing in the darker corner of the […]
• Nelle Harper Lee and Her Reflection in “To Kill a Mockingbird” The author perfectly reflects her life in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird as her father played an essential role in creating the story.
• The Title of Lee’s “How to Kill a Mockingbird” Book The novel’s core topic is the disappearance of innocence and the influence of bias on the lives of the novel’s characters.
• Empathy and Racism in Stockett’s The Help and Li’s To Kill a Mockingbird To start with, the first approach to racism and promoting empathy is to confront prevalent discrimination and racism, which was often shown in The Help. Another solution to racism and the possibility of promoting empathy […]
• Systemic Racism in Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” & Whitehead’s “The Nickel Boys” Racism in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird is pronounced and presented as the natural habitat of the town of Maycomb.
• Reflections of Harper Lee’s Life in “To Kill a Mockingbird” Nelle Harper Lee wrote a book, “To kill a Mockingbird,” this novel is one of greatest in the history of world literature, but the author would never have written the book without the best friend […]
• Themes in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee To Kill a Mockingbird, in its imperfection, is a testament to the march of progress in social justice and racial equality.
• Lift a Ban on “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Lee Understanding different activities have remained vital in society.”To Kill a Mockingbird” is a book that explains the problems of the United States and promotes people to be just and respect human rights.
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” Drama Film The plot proves to be logical and consistent throughout the movie, motivating the audience to watch till the end of the film.
• Understanding Other Perspective: To Kill a Mockingbird The literature portrays the actual happenings in the society in an educative and corrective manner that is acceptable to both sides of the victim and perpetrator of injustices.
• “To Kill a Mockingbird”: The Novel by Harper Lee Scout does not realize the severity of many of the events of the book as they are taking place, and as such she is an innocent.
• American History in “To Kill a Mockingbird” Book & Film Racial attitudes and the dominance of white men over the black ones in the USA are the central ideas of the movie and the novel.
• Racist Trial in the Novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee For the purpose, evaluation would be made in the context of utilization of events, time and culture of the book and compare it to today’s society, culture and racial attitudes.
• Racial Prejudice in Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” Paul Lawrence Dunbar in his poem, “Sympathy” has vividly portrayed the pangs of a caged bird and likens it to the collective pain that colored people have felt like victims of racial prejudices.”And a pain […]
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” Novel by Harper Lee It is one of the main characteristics of the mockingbird includes its innocence and imitation of the songs of other birds in a loud voice.
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee In consequence, the book became a model source of reading that inspired people to further take on the issues of race in the USA and throughout the world.
• Analysis of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird Although the innocent black man is killed while attempting to break out of prison when he might have gone free had the case proceeded to a higher court, Atticus and the town’s sheriff conjure a […]
• American Novel: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee It is also worth to mention that the novel is indeed relevant to its readership because it mirrors the nature of society affected by racism and inequality. Through the act of inclusiveness, I am in […]
• What It Takes to Kill a Mockingbird: In Search for the Differences Between the Novel and a Movie The characters both in the novel and in the movie were often pushed to the breaking point; however, one of such moments described in the book was left out of the movie.
• The Problem of Racism and Injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee In the novel, Harper Lee demonstrates her vision of the question of the social inequality with references to the problem of racism in the society based on prejudice and absence of actual principles of tolerance […]
• Social Issues in the “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee The phrase ‘to kill a mocking bird’ stands out as a metaphor in the book To kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
• Moral Principles in Harper Lee’s Novel To Kill a Mockingbird Harper Lee explores a great number of themes in the first chapters of the novel, for example, integrity of a person and his/her ability contradict the norms, adopted in the community.
• To Kill a Mockingbird The author, in the novel To Kill a Mocking Bird presents a deeper understanding in relation to events occurring in her novel. To enhance understanding of the novel, the author has widely embraced symbolism in […]
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” and the Techniques Used: Characterisation, Structure, Point of View, and Language
• The Different Types of Families Represented in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Atticus Finch’s Views on Race and How They Change Throughout “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Racist Attitudes of the People in Maycomb County in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• “To Kill a Mockingbird”: How Symbolism Reinforces Important Ideas
• The Supproting Character of Boo Radley as a Hero in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Unjust Persecution as a Major Theme in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Significance of the Title of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Use of Symbols in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Trial of Tom Robinson and Its Role in Exploring the Issue of Racism in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Violence and Alienation in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• “To Kill a Mockingbird”: The Importance of Understanding Individual Differences
• True Courage in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Two Types of Underprivileged People in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Influences Parents Have on Their Children in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The References That Suggest to Boo Radley and Tom Robinson in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Tom Robinson and Boo Radley as Mockingbirds in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Southern Gothic Elements in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Resemblance Between Tom Robinson and Boo Radley in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Themes of Childhoods in “Jane Eyre” and “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Role of Family in Shaping the Characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Affects of One’s Surrounding Environment on Their Personality and Morals in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The True Heroic Qualities of Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Theme of the Loss of Childhood Innocence in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Town of Maycomb’s Role in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Different Types of Prejudice Represented in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Atticus Finch as a Moral Compass for His Children in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Moral Development of the Characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Impact of Cowardice on the Characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Mrs Dubose as an Example of Courage in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Impact of Scout’s Family on Her Development in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Victims of Stereotyping in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Atticus Finch as a Father Figure in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Tragic Hero in “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “The Crucible”
• The Themes of Racism and Fear of the Unknown in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Hidden Symbols in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Value of Informal Education in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Tom Robinson’s Trial as a Central Part of “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Unarmed Bravery in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Use of Piaget’s Theories of Child Development in Analyzing “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• The Tolerance Level of the Characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• The Use of Symbolism and Irony in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Tom Robinson’s Conviction in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• How Old Is Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Does Mrs. Maudie’s Nut Grass Symbolize in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Does Scout Describe Dill in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Is the Theme of Femininity and the Power of Women From “To Kill a Mockingbird” Still Relevant Today?
• Who Are the Radleys in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• Why Does Scout Have That Nickname in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Are Fathers Presented in the Novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Is the Main Meaning of “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Does Author Present Racial Issues During the 1930s in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Are the Two Main Plots in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Is the Irony in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Is the Most Important Lesson in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• Is “To Kill a Mockingbird” Still Relevant Today?
• How Does Lee Make Atticus Finch a Heroic Figure in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What “To Kill a Mockingbird” Teaches Us?
• What Are Some Life Lessons From “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Is the First Turning Point in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What’s the Climax of “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Are Some Symbols in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Are Prejudice and Hypocrisy Explored in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Does Harper Lee Build Up Tension Throughout the Novel “To Kill a Mockingbird?
• How Has “To Kill a Mockingbird” Changed the World?
• Why Should Students Read “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Does Harper Lee Use Minor Characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• How Does “To Kill a Mockingbird” Connect to the World?
• What Does the Reader Learn About the Social Setting in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Are the Most Important Quotes in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• Who Is the Protagonist in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• Who Lost Their Innocence in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• What Does the Mad Dog Represent in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Books — To Kill a Mockingbird

Essays on To Kill a Mockingbird

To kill a mockingbird essay topic examples.

You can analyze its themes in argumentative essays, compare and contrast characters or themes, describe the book's settings, persuade readers about certain points, or narrate personal experiences related to the novel's themes. These essay ideas allow you to dive into the world of "To Kill a Mockingbird" from various angles, making it easier to understand and engage with the story.

Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays require you to analyze and present arguments related to the novel. Here are some topic examples:

• 1. Analyze the portrayal of racial injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird and its relevance in today's society.
• 2. Argue whether Atticus Finch is an ideal role model for modern fathers.

Example Introduction Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird shines a spotlight on the persistent issue of racial injustice in the American South. This essay delves into the novel's portrayal of this injustice and its enduring relevance in the contemporary world, examining the lessons it offers for addressing social inequality.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: In conclusion, the analysis of racial injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird underscores the novel's power to inspire meaningful conversations about equity and justice. As we grapple with these issues today, we are reminded of the importance of empathy and compassion in fostering positive change.

Compare and Contrast Essays

Compare and contrast essays enable you to examine similarities and differences within the novel or between it and other literary works. Consider these topics:

• 1. Compare and contrast the characters of Scout and Jem Finch, exploring their individual growth and experiences.
• 2. Analyze the similarities and differences between the themes of racial injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird and The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: Siblings often share profound bonds, yet their experiences can be remarkably distinct. This essay embarks on a journey to compare and contrast Scout and Jem Finch, the young siblings in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird , exploring the unique paths they navigate and the growth they experience throughout the novel.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: In conclusion, the comparison and contrast of Scout and Jem Finch offer insights into the complexity of individual growth and sibling dynamics in To Kill a Mockingbird . As we consider their journeys, we are reminded of the transformative power of empathy and understanding in family relationships.

Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays allow you to vividly depict settings, characters, or events within the novel. Here are some topic ideas:

• 1. Describe the atmospheric details of Maycomb, the fictional town in To Kill a Mockingbird , and its impact on the story.
• 2. Paint a detailed portrait of Boo Radley, focusing on his mysterious nature and significance in the narrative.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: Maycomb, the setting of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird , is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right. This essay embarks on a descriptive journey to capture the atmospheric details of Maycomb, immersing the reader in the town's unique ambiance and its profound influence on the story.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: In conclusion, the descriptive portrayal of Maycomb in To Kill a Mockingbird not only sets the stage but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and reflection. Through this exploration, we are reminded of the power of place in shaping our narratives and perceptions.

Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays involve arguing a point of view related to the novel. Consider these persuasive topics:

• 1. Persuade your readers that Atticus Finch's defense of Tom Robinson is an act of moral courage.
• 2. Argue for or against the idea that To Kill a Mockingbird should be a mandatory part of high school curricula.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: Atticus Finch's unwavering defense of Tom Robinson in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird resonates as a symbol of moral courage. This persuasive essay asserts that Atticus's actions embody the essence of moral heroism, inviting readers to reflect on the qualities that define true bravery.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: In conclusion, the persuasive argument regarding Atticus Finch's moral courage underscores the enduring significance of his character in To Kill a Mockingbird . As we contemplate his actions, we are compelled to consider the qualities that inspire us to stand up for justice and equality.

Narrative Essays

Narrative essays offer you the opportunity to tell a story or share personal experiences related to the themes of the novel. Explore these narrative essay topics:

• 1. Narrate a personal experience where you encountered prejudice and discrimination similar to the themes in To Kill a Mockingbird .
• 2. Imagine yourself as a character in Maycomb and recount your interactions with the Finch family and Boo Radley.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: Prejudice and discrimination are unfortunately common experiences in our world. This narrative essay delves into a personal encounter with these themes, drawing parallels to the themes explored in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird .

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: In conclusion, the narrative of my personal encounter with prejudice and discrimination underscores the enduring relevance of the themes in To Kill a Mockingbird . As we reflect on the challenges of our own lives, we are encouraged to confront injustice and champion the values of empathy and equality.

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The Prejudice of Race, Gender and Social Class in The Novel "To Kill a Mockingbird"

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To Kill a Mockingbird: is Mayella Powerful

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July 11, 1960, Harper Lee

Novel; Thriller, Southern Gothic, Domestic Fiction, Legal Story, Bildungsroman

Atticus Finch, Scout Finch, Jem Finch, Dill Harris, Calpurnia, Aunt Alexandria, John Finch, Arthur Radley

It is partially based on Lee Harper's childhood, which is why the story is told by the child protagonist.

The loss of innocence, prejudice, racial challenges, honor, childhood, friendship, loss of innocence. The most powerful aspect is the very meaning behind "to kill a mockingbird", which means to destroy the innocence. It is made clear by Scout when he asks to "remember [that] it's a sin to kill a mockingbird". The flowers also symbolize patience and understanding, which are reflected by the white camellia flower.

To Kill a Mockingbird is not an easy book to read, yet it quickly became a symbol for the Civil Rights Movement all over the world. It teaches us about being brave, about injustice that must not be ignored, inequality around us, poverty, racism, corruption, anger control, innocence, oppression, hatred, and judging others. Reading this book reminds us of hope, patience, being equal to each other, and fighting for being brave and true.

The story starts when Tom Robinson, an African American male is accused of raping Mayella Ewell, a white woman, the local lawyer called Atticus agrees to defend Tom even though he receives threats from the community. Even when things are quickly getting dangerous, Atticus refuses to leave his client. His young son Scout unwittingly helps to settle down the challenge.

The book has almost been called "Atticus" instead of the famous title that we know so well. Harper Lee was writing only one manuscript page per day even though she worked for about 12 hours a day. The character of Atticus Finch has been inspired by Lee's father who also worked as the lawyer and defended African American clients. The book has helped to create a cottage industry in the author's hometown, which has started with a museum. Lee Harper decided to choose her middle name instead of "Nelle", which she was afraid could be mispronounced. To Kill a Mockingbird became one of the most beloved books in the American literary history. The character of Dill has been based on author's childhood friend Truman Capote who has also used her personality's character in his "Other Voices, Other Rooms" novel that has been published in 1948.

"The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience." "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view. Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it." "Mockingbirds don't do one thing except make music for us to enjoy. They don't eat up people's gardens, don't nest in corn cribs, they don't do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That's why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird." "It's never an insult to be called what somebody thinks is a bad name. It just shows you how poor that person is, it doesn't hurt you." "I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what."

The main factor in To Kill a Mockingbird is teaching one's children and reminding each other about the dangers of prejudice and judging others. Providing an example of defending a black male in the American South shows that one must always keep the faith and seek the truth regardless of the conditions.

It is one of the most influential civil rights movement works in English literature and a symbolism of social challenge, culture, courage, defense of truth, and justice. It is also an essay topic where a person learns about prejudice and understanding that one has to be in another person's shoes to see and understand what it is like. Choosing this book as an essay topic, middle school, high school, and college students learn about justice, honor, and courage.

1. Macaluso, M. (2017). Teaching To kill a mockingbird today: Coming to terms with race, racism, and America's novel. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 61(3), 279-287. (https://ila.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jaal.678) 2. Tanış, A., & Cengizhan, L. (2010). Analyzing the novel “to kill a Mockingbird” in literature class. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2(2), 4387-4391. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S187704281000738X) 3. Al-Mamoory, S., & Witwit, M. A. (2021). Critical Discourse Analysis of Opression in''To Kill a Mockingbird''. Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities Research, 9(02), 11-24. (http://journals.researchub.org/index.php/jsshr/article/view/1243) 4. Stiltner, M. A. (2002). Don't put your shoes on the bed: A moral analysis of “To Kill a Mockingbird”. East Tennessee State University.(https://www.proquest.com/openview/fa19ac9b0047942ce79bc14a55116582/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y) 5. Khokhar, M. I., & Mashori, G. M. (2018). Marxist Analysis of to Kill A Mockingbird According To Peter Barry. Journal of Grassroot, 52(2). (https://www.prdb.pk/article/marxist-analysis-of-to-kill-a-mockingbird-according-to-peter-2526) 6. Shackelford, D. (1996). The Female Voice in" To Kill a Mockingbird": Narrative Strategies in Film and Novel. The Mississippi Quarterly, 50(1), 101-113. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/26475781) 7. Sastrawijaya, M. D. (2021). The Character and Moral Values in “to Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. INFERENCE: Journal of English Language Teaching, 3(1), 81-87. (https://journal.lppmunindra.ac.id/index.php/inference/article/view/6070) 8. Winarni, B., Nugroho, A., & Fatimah, S. (2013). Affection And Prejudice In To Kill A Mockingbird Novel By Harper Lee (1960): A Psychoanalytic Approach (Doctoral dissertation, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta). (http://eprints.ums.ac.id/26577/)

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How to Write an Analytical Essay on “To Kill a Mockingbird”

Table of Contents

Analytical essay on “to kill a mockingbird”, why write an analytical essay on to kill a mockingbird.

Students undertaking literature courses often analyze various kinds of literature as part of their coursework. An analytical essay requires students to review and critically analyze a written work. The story “To Kill a Mockingbird” is an example of several kinds of literature that depicts how discrimination affected many families living in the southern parts of the US during the 1930s.

The story highlights how different characters undergo significant changes despite living in an environment where discrimination was widely practiced. Harper Lee book, “To Kill A Mockingbird,” presents the theme of courage using a small family living in Maycomb county to depict courage in their fight against racial discrimination.

How to start an analytical essay: Tips on how to start

Analytical  essays help  the target audience understand the overall composition of the story by scrutinizing the literature including the characters. An analytical essay is divided into different sections to provide evidence about the authors’ perspective based on his understanding of the text. A good analytical essay needs to capture the audience interest; the author should use startling statements.

Some background information related to the theme should be presented to help the audience understand the author’s area of focus. A good analytical essay presents a critical review, including artistic styles used by the author to present the theme. It is important to identify which section of the book is to be analyzed and also the significance of the theme according to the original author.

Outline example of analytical essay

Introduction.

• Explain the significance of the book.
• A brief background of the theme and how the background connects to the theme.

BODY PARAGRAPHS

• Describe the specific elements used by the author to advance his theme in the story.
• Present examples to justify the authors’ choice of element.
• Describe the role of the main characters and how the characters enhances the plot.
• Describe the author’s strengths and weaknesses.
• Review the book and justify the significance of the book.
• Some of the lessons learned from the story.

How to write a thesis for an analytical essay on To Kill a Mockingbird

The thesis statement states the main ideas of an essay. A thesis statement is what the author wants to justify. For example, a good thesis statement for an analytical essay about “To Kill A Mockingbird,” with the central idea of courage, the thesis statement can be as follows:

Courage is evident throughout the story; for example, Atticus constant fight against racism and Mrs. Dubose overcoming her addiction to morphine demonstrates courage amidst fear.

How to write an introduction

A good introduction needs to inform the audience what to expect in the following paragraphs. The first sentence of an essay should be clear and precise. The reader should be able to understand what the author intends to discuss by reading the introduction.

Tips on how to write an introduction and a thesis

The introduction needs to include the original author’s name and the main theme; the introduction needs to convey the writer’s position concerning the original author’s ideas. The introduction should indicate the main ideas to be discussed by presenting a thesis statement. An eye-catching introduction will attract the reader’s attention; therefore, the first few sentences of the introduction should be clear and precise. An analytical essay structure should contain the authors’ perspective on the subject, the purpose and the target audience as part of the introduction.

How to write body paragraphs: Tips on body writing

The body paragraphs should expand on the essay introduction by supporting the  thesis statement . The body paragraphs have to present evidence to prove the claim by using specific text examples in order to justify the authors’ position.

A five-paragraph analytical essay should contain three major parts, the introduction, essay body and the conclusion. The body paragraphs should contain at least three paragraphs to explain the main essay idea. The body paragraphs should also present a detailed explanation of the authors’ claims, including the strategies used.

When analyzing literature, the author should discuss each chapter or analyze specific sections to present his claims. It is important to describe the rhetorical strategies used and explain if they are effective or not. The analysis needs to provide examples to support the author’s position.

How to finish an analytical essay: Tips on conclusion writing

The conclusion is the last part of an essay that sums up all the argument to remind the reader of the main purpose of the essay.

Conclusion means reminding the reader of the discussion. Therefore, the conclusions should contain brief sentences as a summary of what has been discussed. A good conclusion outlines the main issues discussed and linking the discussion to prove the claims made in the thesis statement. A good conclusion needs to connect the main idea with a broader argument or compare the argument using a broader perspective. When concluding an essay, the main focus should be on the discussion presented in the introduction and the essay body. The author should not present any new ideas when concluding. The author needs to discuss his position after the analysis and the implications of his findings.

Analytical essay revision

After completing the essay draft, it is important to  review the essay  to make it look professional. The essay needs to be free from any grammatical errors. Revision means checking for proper use of pronouns, subject agreement, proper sentence structure, and punctuations. Ensure that the language is simple; avoid unnecessary words that might confuse the reader.

Analytical essay on To Kill a Mockingbird (Sample)

Harper Lee’s story “To Kill A Mockingbird” presents a realistic story dating back to 1930s that resonate today. The most important theme of the story is about courage.  To Kill A Mockingbird , written by Harper Lee, talks about a small town in the southern part of the 1930s, focusing on Maycomb county where the struggles of life are evident. Some of the notable characters like Atticus Finch, Jem and Scout present how discrimination affected many people living in the south.

Harper explores the moral nature of humans, especially the struggle between discrimination and tolerance. Courage is evident throughout the story; for example, Atticus constant fight against racism and Mrs. Dubose overcoming her addiction to morphine demonstrates courage. The novel reveals not only prejudice but also examines the nature of prejudice and its consequences. The story setting and the period in which the story was written convey the struggles of many characters to fight racial discrimination. This involves the persecution of innocent people, especially during Tom Robinson’s trial. Courage is evident in several parts of the book, for instance, the children Jem and Scout stands up to face their fears.

Jem’s and Scout’s bravery is noticeable in one of the scenes where they follow Atticus Finch in court during the rape trials to witness how he defends Tom Robinson. Scout displays heroism when addressing Walter Cunningham without fearing any repercussions of his actions.  To Kill A Mockingbird  proves how several characters had hope and courage amid rampant discrimination; they overcome fear to defend their position in the society. The novel shows the reader how courage can impact on others.

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35 To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics

Harper Lee’s classic American novel To Kill a Mockingbird is among the most taught books in American literature. The story of young Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus–as told through the eyes of Scout–is one that has captivated readers for generations.

With the reading of the novel also comes an assortment of assignments that require students to analyze and interpret the text. One such assignment is the To Kill a Mockingbird essay.

While understanding the book’s content can be a challenge in and of itself, crafting a well-written essay on the subject can be even more so. However, we’ve created a handy guide detailing everything you need to know about writing a To Kill a Mockingbird essay, including tips on structure and 35 essay topic ideas.

How to Write the Essay

To Kill A Mockingbird essays can be written in many different writing styles depending on the essay prompt and the teacher’s individual preferences. However, there are a few key things that every To Kill A Mockingbird essay should have. Let’s take a look at what those are.

A Strong Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement is the most crucial element of a good To Kill A Mockingbird essay. This statement is what your entire essay will be based around and should be narrow in focus. Depending on whether your essay is an argumentative, persuasive, comparative statement, or literary analysis essay, your thesis will take on a different form.

An Argumentative Thesis Statement

If you’re writing an argumentative essay, your thesis statement should take a clear position on the issue at hand. For example, if you’re writing about whether or not Atticus Finch is a good father, your thesis statement might look something like this:

“Atticus Finch is a good father because he is patient, teaches his children to be moral people, and is always there for them when they need him.”

A Persuasive Thesis Statement

If you’re writing a persuasive essay, your thesis statement will take on a slightly different form. Instead of simply stating your position, you’ll also need to provide evidence from the text to support your claim. So, for example, if you’re writing about whether or not Atticus Finch is a good father, your thesis statement might look something like this:

“Atticus Finch is a good father because he is patient, teaches his children to be moral people, and is always there for them when they need him. This is evident in how he deals with Scout’s defiance, helps Jem come to terms with Boo Radley, and stands up for Tom Robinson in court.”

A Comparative Thesis Statement

If you’re writing a comparative essay, your thesis statement will need to compare and contrast two or more characters, themes, or elements from the text. For example, if you’re comparing and contrasting the characters of Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell, your thesis statement might look something like this:

“Though both Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell are fathers, they couldn’t be more different in the way they raise their children. Atticus Finch is a patient and level-headed father who instils morality in his children, while Bob Ewell is an abusive and alcoholic father who does nothing but harm his daughter.”

A Literary Analysis Thesis Statement

In this type of essay, you’ll be asked to analyze the themes, symbols, or other literary devices used in the text. So, for example, if you’re writing about the theme of racism in To Kill A Mockingbird, your thesis statement might look something like this:

“The theme of racism is evident in To Kill A Mockingbird through the characters of Tom Robinson, Calpurnia, and Atticus Finch.”

In each of these examples, you’ll notice that the thesis statement is clear, concise, and takes a position on the issue at hand. This is exactly what your thesis statement should do as well.

The Body Paragraphs

Once you have a thesis statement, you can begin to write the body paragraphs of your essay. In each body paragraph, you’ll need to include a topic sentence, supporting evidence from the text, and your own analysis.

The topic sentence is the first sentence of the paragraph and introduces the main idea that will be discussed in the paragraph. The supporting evidence can be quotes, events, or other information from the text that backs up your main idea. And finally, your analysis is your interpretation of the evidence and how it supports your main idea.

For example, if you’re writing about Atticus Finch as a good father, your first body paragraph might look something like this:

Paragraph 1:

• Topic sentence: Atticus is a good father because he is patient.
• Supporting evidence: “Atticus was making a feeble attempt to comfort her, but his hands were shaking as badly as hers.” (Lee 94)
• Analysis: This quote shows that even when Scout is misbehaving, Atticus remains calm and patient with her.

With each new paragraph, you’ll need to include a new topic sentence and supporting evidence.

The Conclusion

The conclusion of your essay is where you’ll need to tie everything together and leave your reader with a clear understanding of your position. To do this, you’ll need to restate your thesis statement and main points from the body of your essay.

You’ll also want to leave the reader with something to think about. Maybe offer a new perspective on the text, or suggest how the themes of the text apply to real life.

For example, your conclusion might look something like this:

“Though Atticus Finch is a fictional character, he serves as an excellent role model for fathers everywhere. His patience, morality, and courage are qualities that all fathers should strive to possess.”

35 To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics

Sometimes the most challenging part of essay writing is coming up with a topic. That is where this list of To Kill A Mockingbird essay topics will come in handy.

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Racism

• The racist attitudes of the people in Maycomb County
• The impact of racism on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• The trial of Tom Robinson and its role in exploring the issue of racism
• Atticus Finch’s views on race and how they change throughout the novel
• How racism affects the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Family

• The different types of families represented in To Kill A Mockingbird
• The role of family in shaping the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch as a father figure
• The impact of Scout’s family on her development
• How the absence of a mother figure affects the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Courage

• The definition of courage and how it applies to the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch as a model of courage
• Mrs Dubose as an example of courage
• How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird define and demonstrate courage
• The impact of cowardice on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Morality

• The moral development of the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch as a moral compass for his children
• The importance of morality in To Kill A Mockingbird
• How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with moral dilemmas
• The impact of immorality on the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Prejudice

• The different types of prejudice represented in To Kill A Mockingbird
• The role of prejudice in shaping the events of the novel
• How the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with prejudice
• The impact of prejudice on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch’s views on prejudice and how they change throughout the novel

To Kill A Mockingbird Essay Topics About Injustice

• The injustice of the trial of Tom Robinson
• The role of injustice in To Kill A Mockingbird
• How do the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird deal with injustice
• The impact of injustice on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch’s views on justice and how they change throughout the novel

To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics About Gender

• The role of gender in To Kill A Mockingbird
• How characters in To Kill A Mockingbird are impaired or helped by gender roles
• The impact of gender roles on the relationships between the characters in To Kill A Mockingbird
• Atticus Finch’s views on gender and how they change throughout the novel
• The significance of Scout’s development as a tomboy

With any of these 35 To Kill A Mockingbird essay topics, you will have a pretty easy time coming up with an excellent essay. Remember to create a strong thesis and use the guide above when writing your To Kill A Mockingbird essay body and conclusion.

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Thesis statement for To Kill a Mockingbird

What is a thesis statement.

Whether it is a case study or a piece of literature, a thesis statement is considered to be a crucial element. A thesis statement can be defined to be one’s point of view at the end of a discussion or research. It is a total of all the information provided on the topic.  Here we willl see about Thesis statement for To Kill a Mockingbird.

You are required to mention the thesis statement generally at the end of the introductory part of a research analysis or case study. A thesis statement is contained in just a single sentence conveying the central idea of the topic. A thesis statement can be both direct and indirect. 

To Kill a Mockingbird: An Introduction

This piece of classic modern American literature is a novel written by the American wordsmith, Harper Lee. It was published on July 11, 1960, in the United States. It is written in the English language and was published by J B Lippincott & Co. The novel was an instant hit among the readers of the United States. 

To Kill a Mockingbird was also awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Most high schools and middle schools in America have included the novel in their syllabus. The genre of the novel is Bildungsroman and Southern Gothic.

Thesis statement for To Kill a Mockingbird:

There can be several thesis statement for a novel like “To kill a mockingbird”. You are never bound to follow just one thesis statement for any piece of literature. A story has different angles and perspectives that lead to various ideas hidden in it. Similarly, for this novel also, you can follow these thesis statements given below:

1. Addressing the issue of racism and discrimination in various walks of life:

Racism is one of the main themes of the novel that has been expressed and discussed. The character of Tom Robinson, a falsely accused black man, suffers institutional racism and ends up getting shot 17 times in an attempt to save his freedom. Not just racism, but there are other forms of prejudice and discrimination too that have been reflected in the plot. 

It includes Scout being criticized for her tomboy behavior and rumors being propagated against Boo Radley for his ghost-like presence in society. Boo Radley, who was mistreated in his childhood by his father, is misunderstood by society. He is considered a threat, resulting in his boycott from society. These discriminations in various walks of life display the mindset of people in our society.

2. Ravaging the notion of justice being served:

People are hungry to be treated with fairness and justice. But only once in a while justice is served. But in this novel, justice is never served. The fault lies in the unchanging societal norms that differentiate the world into black and white, and evil and good. The jury quickly believes that Tom Robinson is guilty of a crime just because he is a black man. 

The jury questions the notion of justice and fairness of those who believe in his innocence. Tom Robinson’s sufferings do not end at false conviction, and he is eventually killed in the name of the law. This incident ravages the notion that ‘In the end, justice is always served’. 

3. The expression of the dilemma between evil and good through the Bildungsroman genre in the novel:

The novel is written in the Bildungsroman genre that specifies the journey of the development of characters from childhood to adulthood. In this novel, the characters of Scout and Jem develop feelings of fear to empathy for Boo Radley, as they move from childhood to adulthood. The person whom they considered evil and suspicious when they were kids turns out to be the hero when they step into adulthood. 

As Scout and Jem grew up, they learned the history of Boo, which changed their perspectives about him. Several facts and notions that they believed in childhood seemed baseless and false. It creates a dilemma in understanding and recognizing who is good and who is evil.

4. The concrete morality and reverse racism in Atticus Finch’s character:

Throughout the novel, the only character that stood firm with his beliefs and morals was Atticus Finch, a lawyer with wisdom. Atticus Finch was one of the most prestigious figures in the society of Maycomb. But the society’s deep-rooted racial stigma troubled him, and he decided to defend the falsely accused black man. It resulted in disdain from the people of Maycomb, which expresses the concept of reverse racism. 

The people who stand against discrimination often have to face the similar contempt that victims of racism face. Despite this contempt, Atticus seemed to be firm with his morals and did not lose his prestige in society. “To kill a mockingbird” showcases this ideal character as one of the main themes of the story.

What does “To kill a mockingbird” signify as a title?

The word “mockingbird” refers to people with innocence and purity. A mockingbird is a symbol of innocence. In the novel, when Jem was aiming to shoot birds, Atticus prompted him and told, “Shoot all the bluejays you want if you can hit’em but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird”. 

This context conveys the meaning that killing someone innocent or someone’s innocence is a sin. The novel narrates the story of Tom, who was innocent yet after being proven guilty, he was killed. This was a sin committed by the racial discrimination of the society of Maycomb. 

Conclusion:

This exemplary piece of literature has been celebrated for years and is still considered a classic. The given thesis statements can help you discuss and debate the main themes of the plot. Even though the novel deals with some grievous issues of racism and rape, it still carries a touch of humor and warmth. 

Gustavo Almeida Correia

The essay writers who will write an essay for me have been in this domain for years and know the consequences that you will face if the draft is found to have plagiarism. Thus, they take notes and then put the information in their own words for the draft. To be double sure about this entire thing, your final draft is being analyzed through anti-plagiarism software, Turnitin. If any sign of plagiarism is detected, immediately the changes will be made. You can get the Turnitin report from the writer on request along with the final deliverable.

Megan Sharp