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What historical context affects our understanding of Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird?

In the book To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout definitely struggles with the social expectations that are placed on her. Though she is young, the people around her are constantly attempting to remind her that she is supposed to be acting like a "lady." In the book, she is considered a tomboy; she gets in fights, she dresses differently than other girls her age, and she asks tough questions that make people embarrassed and more considerate of their own actions. All of these are things that a young lady in the old South would not have been encouraged to do. At the time, it was the belief of most people, especially older folks like Aunt Alexandra's friends, that children should be "seen and not heard," "speak when spoken to," and act "ladylike," which includes wearing dresses, staying out of the dirt, and keeping one's hair combed and neat. None of these cultural and social expectations are things that Scout wants to do, and, in fact, she feels that they inhibit her from being herself. She would like nothing more than to read, play, and think/explore. These are things that Aunt Alexandra tries to discourage in her, but which make her a more well-rounded individual, as opposed to the image of a young lady that her aunt wants to create. Young ladies in those days were often more well-versed in playing musical instruments, in decorating, in sewing, and other domestic pursuits. They existed for the benefit of others, and were not desired for their intelligence. This is what makes Scout such a fascinating character. 

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