" These words, spoken by Atticus Finch, sums up the heart of this novel. Many people have wondered why Harper Lee decided to name her book after what seems like an insignificant excerpt. After reading the novel and fully understanding it one will realize that it is just another example of symbolism. A mockingbird is a harmless bird that tries to make the world seem more pleasant. Since mockingbirds don't do anything harmful it would be a sin to kill one. The only time Harper Lee mentions anything being a sin is when she relates it to a mockingbird. This shows how strong the title really is and how it relates to the characters of the story. In many ways the mockingbird, of To Kill a Mockingbird, symbolizes two important characters and also the overall theme, prejudice.
Jem's and Scout's mockingbird is the mysterious Boo Radley. His generosity showed when he left gum, pennies, soap dolls, a medal, and a watch for Jem and Scout to find. The greatest thing Jem and Scout owe to him are their lives. Boo Radley saved their lives while risking his own. He never really wanted to harm anybody. The sheriff refused to arrest Boo for killing Bob Ewell, and he presented the death as an accident. It would be a sin to turn in Boo Radley as the murderer of the greedy, selfish, disgrace to the community, Bob Ewell. When Atticus asked Scout if she understood the circumstances she replied, "Well, it'd be sort of like shootin' a mockingbird.".
Tom Robinson's only crime against Mayella Ewell is that he was simply too considerate of her. This is not at all a bad thing, but Mayella took advantage of Tom Robinson and his actions. Mayella Ewell would ask Tom to help her with chores around the house. Being very polite Tom did almost everything Mayella asked him to do, such as chop up wood. The only thing he did not do was kiss and rape her. Just like Boo Radley, Tom never harmed a soul. He risked his own safety by helping Mayella, and he did it because someone needed him.