Friday, November 6, 2009

In Chapter 10, what is an important line of dialogue that conveys the main idea of the chapter?


"People in their right minds never take pride in their talents." (Lee 130)



In the beginning of Chapter 10, Jem and Scout lament about their father's lack of talent and ability. One Saturday, a rabid dog named Tim Johnson is walking through the streets of Maycomb, and Atticus Finch shoots the dog, killing it in one shot. Jem and Scout are in awe of their father's marksmanship. Miss Maudie tells the children that when Atticus was younger he was known as Ol' One-Shot Finch. The children wonder why their father never hunts or brags about his talent. Miss Maudie explains to them that intelligent, humble people never take pride in their talents because they understand that their abilities are God-given. Jem learns several lessons about being a gentleman from witnessing his father's behavior in Chapter 10. He learns that a gentleman maintains his composure in adverse situations, exercises discernment regarding when to use certain abilities, and remains humble following successful outcomes.

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