Maycomb Photograph Analysis (TKAM) 11-24-15

This picture represents the setting of To Kill a Mockingbird, in many ways.  For example, the book is set in southern Alabama, where it's relatively hot and dusty, and you can tell that the setting of the picture has similar traits, when you look at how none of the children have shoes on, and their all dressed for that type of weather.  You don't see coats on them, and they have big hats that could potentially shield their eyes from the sun.  In addition to that, you can infer that the ground below them, is dry and dusty dirt or sand, by analyzing the possible texture of the ground.

Another possible connection to the book that I can see, is the character similarities.  The young children in the picture, could be like Scout, Jem, and Dill.  By studying their facial expressions and moods, we can see the resemblance of curiosity, mischief, excitement, and yet seriousness at times, maybe even a little sadness too, which can all be seen in the child characters of the book.

A final similarity between this photograph and the book, was the clothing, and the fact that the picture was taken in black and white.  First off all, the clothes that the people in the picture seem from previous generations, and you don't really see kids going around today in those sorts of clothing.  Overalls, sun hats, and you don't see girls wearing skirts outside without shoes on.  Skirts are usually for special occasions or celebrations, and aren't utilized for every day activity anymore.  Second, the picture was taken in black and white, which isn't common at all these days, but was the only option several years ago.  All these clues, connections, and similarities help me to realize more and more that this picture relates to the setting, time period, and characters of the book To Kill a Mockngbird.

Theme Blog on "The Breadwinner" 11-19

I devised a potential theme from the book, "The Breadwinner" than most other readers might have.  I've completed the book, and formed an opinion based off of different character's actions and choices.  I think that whether it was intentional or unintentional, the author helps readers realize that courage comes in different forms, and sometimes courage isn't the best quality to have in a certain scenario.  The definition of courage is, "the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear..."  

However, would the action of bravely stepping in front of an entire enemy army to fight by yourself be considered courageous?  Techniquely your facing danger, without fear, but it certainly wouldn't be the smartest thing to do in that situation.  It often seems that courage comes hand in hand with stupidity, and although some people may not consider the "smarter" thing to do courageous, it could be the better option.  For example, during the book, Parvana's mother goes out to look for her husband in jail among the Taliban.  It was banned for women to leave the house unaccompanied by a man, so this was very dangerous for Parvana's mother.  Some may consider this a bold act of courage, while others with realize that it obviously was quite stupid.

On the other hand, there are certainly cases where courage is extremely hard to conjure up and harness, but can be really helpful.  In the book, Parvana has courage practically forced or thrust upon her, considering it is the only option for the survival of her family.  She has to be extremely courageous and/or brave while being smart at the same time.  I don't want to go into too much detail on these events, considering some readers may want to check this book out, but anyone who's read the book will know what I'm referring to. 

I know that there are multiple themes to this book, as there are to many others as well, but this is one that I wanted to focus in and go in depth within.  I've now thought more intensely on this claim about courage, and have came to the conclusion that this theme not only applies to the book, but to real life situations and events as well.