Similarities between the Help and to Kill a Mockingbird

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee and “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett are two landmark novels that delve into the profound complexities of racial inequalities and social justice in the American South. Despite being set in different periods, these novels offer poignant insights into the struggles against racial discrimination, exploring themes of courage, injustice, and the pursuit of change through the eyes of strong, compelling characters. This essay examines the similarities between these two influential works, focusing on their thematic elements, character development, and the social contexts they depict.

Both novels are set in the American South and present a society deeply entrenched in racial segregation and prejudice. “To Kill a Mockingbird,” set in the 1930s during the Great Depression in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, reflects the era’s stark racial divisions through the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man wrongfully accused of raping a white woman. “The Help,” on the other hand, is set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement and tells the story of African American maids working in white households, exposing the racism and daily indignities they face.

At the heart of each story is the narrative perspective that offers unique insights into the respective eras. “To Kill a Mockingbird” is narrated by Scout Finch, a young white girl whose father, Atticus Finch, is the lawyer defending Tom Robinson. Her innocent, yet astute observations provide a critical lens through which the reader experiences the ingrained social injustices of the time. Similarly, “The Help” is primarily narrated by Aibileen and Minny, black maids, and Skeeter, a young white woman. This multi-perspective narrative technique enriches the story, allowing the reader to understand the complex dynamics of race relations from both those who are oppressed and those within the oppressive society who seek change.

The characters of Atticus Finch and Skeeter Phelan illustrate the moral backbone of each novel, representing figures of integrity and bravery who challenge the status quo. Atticus, through his defense of Tom Robinson and his teachings to his children, embodies the highest standards of justice and morality. Skeeter, in “The Help,” exhibits similar courage and moral fortitude; she risks her social standing and relationships to tell the stories of the maids, aiming to illuminate their plight and push for social change.

Both Lee and Stockett effectively use their narratives to criticize the deeply flawed judicial and social systems. The trial of Tom Robinson in “To Kill a Mockingbird” serves as a direct critique of the racist legal system where the truth is overshadowed by skin color. In “The Help,” the maids’ stories collectively highlight the systemic racism that pervades every aspect of their lives, from employment to social interactions, showcasing a society riddled with inequality and the normalization of racial discrimination.

The themes of courage and the fight against injustice are central to both novels, encouraging the reader to reflect on their understanding of morality and justice. Scout and Skeeter, though young and initially naive, grow significantly, influenced by the harsh realities they witness. Their development reflects the potential for change in society, emphasizing that progress often begins with the courage of a few individuals who choose to stand against the prevailing norms.

Moreover, both authors use their novels as a tool for education and enlightenment, aiming to foster empathy and understanding across racial divides. By presenting the stories of marginalized individuals and the complexities of their circumstances, Lee and Stockett help readers to see the world through others’ eyes, promoting a deeper understanding of the pervasive impacts of racism.

In conclusion, “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “The Help” share significant similarities in their exploration of racial inequality, portrayal of courageous characters, and critique of societal norms. Both novels not only provide a window into the historical periods of the American South but also serve as timeless reminders of the enduring need for empathy, justice, and activism in the face of discrimination. By addressing these issues, Harper Lee and Kathryn Stockett have contributed immensely to American literature and continue to inspire discussions about race, morality, and the power of the human spirit to overcome prejudice.

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