A male and a female are both a species of nature and a catalyst for life. These two genders can be scrutinized, categorized and observed, to possess significant and individual characteristics. The different and outstanding traits that both male's and female's possess are regularly subjected in society into two individual groups. The general attributes of both males and females conform to the image" of each gender which can many times lead to stereotyping. Stereotyping is the judgement towards a human based on a widely held image or idea. In the novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird", stereotyping is prevalent and common among the citizens of Maycomb. The author, Harper Lee uses characters such as the members of the court, the women of Maycomb, and the Finch family to specifically exemplify gender stereotyping within the novel, as well as the time period. .
To begin with, during Tom Robinson's trial in the court of Maycomb, the author used gender stereotyping to define the event and act as a forefront to the inevitable conclusion. The charges brought against Tom Robinson at the trial prove that gender stereotyping is prevalent even if it is incorrect. Despite the fact that a doctor was never called to examine Mayella and no cries of protest were heard from her at the scene of the case, Tom Robinson is charged. The lack of evidence does no justice as Mayella's word as a woman accusing a man of rape is taken against a man's. Tom Robinson states "insert quote". As well, even though Mayella is a lower member of the society in Maycomb in terms of affluence, as a woman she is still someone who is stereotyped as requiring protection and understanding. This is why the town rallies to her defense despite the lack of affirmation. Men's roles involve protecting the woman's honor, as seen in court with Mayella and the male jury. Back in the 1950's women were not allowed to sit on juries, to vote or to really publicly voice their opinions.