Calpurnia, cook to Atticus, Jem, and Scout, is, in Scout's eyes, "all angles and bones," suggesting a very thin physique, yet a "tyrannical presence" for as long as Scout can remember. She has large, powerful hands, and she squints because she is myopic and doesn't wear eyeglasses. These descriptions are found in the novel's first chapter.
In chapter two, as Scout describes how Calpurnia's "grammar became erratic" "when she was furious," readers learn that Calpurnia...
Calpurnia, cook to Atticus, Jem, and Scout, is, in Scout's eyes, "all angles and bones," suggesting a very thin physique, yet a "tyrannical presence" for as long as Scout can remember. She has large, powerful hands, and she squints because she is myopic and doesn't wear eyeglasses. These descriptions are found in the novel's first chapter.
In chapter two, as Scout describes how Calpurnia's "grammar became erratic" "when she was furious," readers learn that Calpurnia is African American; Atticus has told Scout that Calpurnia "had more education than most colored folks." Scout observes that she has "tiny lines around her eyes" that deepen when she squints.
There is plenty of evidence in the novel that points to Calpurnia's physical strength. She loads all of the fireplaces at the Finches' home and performs a number of difficult chores. In chapter 12 she bathes Scout roughly; in the same chapter, her hand digs into Scout's shoulder during the confrontation at Calpurnia's church. Instead of backing down when the parishioners advance upon them, Calpurnia has "amusement in her eyes."
Harper Lee wants her readers to see Calpurnia as a physical (and psychological) force to be reckoned with.
No comments:
Post a Comment