IndexIntroductionBodyConclusionBibliographyIntroductionIn the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, the theme of injustice is explored through various characters and situations. One character who particularly exemplifies this theme is Miss Gates, Scout's third grade teacher. Despite her role as an educator, Miss Gates displays a hypocritical attitude towards injustice, as she fails to recognize the racial inequality and discrimination that exists in her own community. This essay will analyze the portrayal of Miss Gates as a symbol of injustice, highlighting her contradictory beliefs and actions. By examining his character, we can more fully understand the pervasive nature of injustice in society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Body At first glance, Miss Gates appears to be a champion of justice and equality. In one scene, he passionately discusses the rise of Adolf Hitler and expresses his disgust at the oppression occurring in Nazi Germany. He tells his students, including Scout, that "We don't believe in persecuting anyone. Persecution comes from people who are prejudiced" (Lee 331). Ms. Gates' words seem to convey a genuine concern about injustice and prejudice. However, it is important to note the irony in his statements, as he fails to recognize the discrimination that occurs within his own community. Furthermore, Miss Gates's condemnation of persecution in Germany stands in stark contrast to her indifference towards the racial inequality prevalent in Germany. Maycomb. It fails to acknowledge the racial discrimination faced by Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape, and instead focuses on the injustice happening in a distant country. This inconsistency in his beliefs highlights the hypocrisy underlying his supposed commitment to justice. In addition to her contradictory statements, Miss Gates also demonstrates a profound ignorance of the racial injustice that permeates Maycomb. During a discussion about Hitler's treatment of the Jews, Scout hears Miss Gates say, "It's time someone taught them a lesson, they're getting way in over their head, and the next thing they think they can do is marry us" ( Lee 331). This remark exposes Miss Gates' racist beliefs and reveals her failure to recognize the parallels between the oppression faced by Jews in Germany and the discrimination faced by African Americans in her own community. By juxtaposing his condemnation of persecution abroad with his racist comments about blacks, Lee highlights the hypocrisy and blindness of individuals like Miss Gates who claim to stand against injustice. Furthermore, this ignorance perpetuates the cycle of inequality and prevents any meaningful progress towards a more just society. Despite her knowledge of the injustices occurring in Maycomb, Miss Gates fails to take any meaningful action to address or counteract them. It remains passive and compliant, allowing racial inequality to persist. This is evident in his response to Tom Robinson's trial. Although the trial becomes a major event for the city, Miss Gates does not actively support Tom Robinson or question the legitimacy of the charges against him. His inaction speaks volumes about his true character and further highlights his role as a symbol of injustice. Furthermore, Miss Gates' failure to address injustices within her community reflects a larger issue of social complacency. His silence, and the silence of, 1960.
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