What animal does Scout compare Bob Ewell to? In Harper Lee’s classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Scout Finch, the young narrator, often uses animal comparisons to describe the characters around her. When it comes to Bob Ewell, Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, uses a particularly poignant comparison to illustrate the true nature of this despicable character.
Bob Ewell is a despicable character in the novel, embodying the worst aspects of racism and ignorance. He is a violent and menacing figure who represents the dark underbelly of Maycomb, the fictional town where the story takes place. Scout’s father, Atticus, uses an animal comparison to describe Bob Ewell’s nature, highlighting the extent of his evil.
In one of the pivotal scenes in the novel, Atticus Finch tells Scout that Bob Ewell is like a “snake.” This comparison serves to emphasize the malevolent and cunning nature of Bob Ewell. Snakes are often associated with deception and danger, and Atticus uses this comparison to convey the idea that Bob Ewell is a devious and dangerous individual who poses a threat to the community.
Scout, being a young and innocent character, struggles to understand the full implications of her father’s words. However, as the story progresses, she begins to see the truth in her father’s description of Bob Ewell. The comparison to a snake highlights the sinister nature of Bob Ewell, who is capable of great harm to those around him.
Furthermore, the animal comparison serves to underscore the themes of racism and injustice that run throughout the novel. Bob Ewell is a symbol of the oppressive and prejudiced society in which the characters live. By comparing him to a snake, Atticus Finch is not only highlighting Bob Ewell’s inherent evil but also pointing out the dangers that such individuals pose to the fabric of society.
In conclusion, the animal comparison used by Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, to describe Bob Ewell as a “snake” is a powerful tool that helps readers understand the true nature of this despicable character. It emphasizes the themes of racism and injustice and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing such individuals to thrive in a community.
