In the book, To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee there are three constant themes that repeat themselves throughout the novel and throughout everyone's daily lives. These three themes are courage which is standing up for one's beliefs, that racism needs to be stopped, and sexism. This essay will provide definitions as well as evidence using quotes and examples from the book to verify these themes. .
The first theme which is most visible throughout the novel is that courage. Courage is the quality of mind that enables one to face danger with self-possession or confidence; bravery. Or for standing up for what is right. Here is an example of courage used in the novel, "I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand."" (pg.112) Atticus is explaining, that just because a person has a weapon doesn't mean they are tough it instead shows the weaker side. Here is a different example from the novel, "Mrs. Dubose was a morphine addict,"" said Atticus. "She took it as a pain-killer for years. The doctor put her on it. She'd have spent the rest of her life on it and died without so much agony, but she was too contrary--- (pg111). Mrs. Dubose was tremendously heroic and courageous for not being on morphine while dying. She wanted to die free from everything and everyone and not owe anyone for anything. .
Another major theme used theme in To Kill A Mockingbird is sexism. Sexism is discrimination by members of one sex against the other. Here is an example from the novel; "Grandmas a wonderful cook,"" said Francis. "She's gonna to teach me teach me how,"" "Boys don't cook ."" I giggled at the thought of Jem in an apron."" (pg.82) Scout is laughing because Francis wants to be taught how to cook. Here is another quote from the book, "she pointed an arthritic finger at me -- what are you doing in those overalls? You should be in a dress and camisole, young lady! You'll grow up waiting on tables if somebody doesn't change your ways--a Finch waiting on tables at the O.