What are some themes in Chapter 10 of To Kill A Mockingbird?

(I can’t read the image you uploaded, so I hope this answers your question completely.)

Chapter 10 is a pivotal chapter in To Kill a Mockingbirdbecause we learn more about Atticus, because we get insight into the meaning of the novel’s title,  and because Jem and Scout learn several lessons. Jem and Scout are having some problems with their classmates at school because of Atticus’ involvement in the Tom Robinson rape trial.  Scout, however,...

(I can’t read the image you uploaded, so I hope this answers your question completely.)

Chapter 10 is a pivotal chapter in To Kill a Mockingbird because we learn more about Atticus, because we get insight into the meaning of the novel’s title,  and because Jem and Scout learn several lessons. Jem and Scout are having some problems with their classmates at school because of Atticus’ involvement in the Tom Robinson rape trial.  Scout, however, has promised Atticus that she won’t fight anymore. Scout has to show restraint against the cruel words of her classmates.  This could be one theme we see—keeping promises and showing courage even when pushed to one’s limit.  Jem, however, thinks Atticus is a “dud” of a father; he won’t play with Jem in an annual football game, he won’t teach Jem and Scout how to shoot their BB guns, and he’s just boring!  However, Jem’s respect (another theme) grows when Atticus shoots a rabid dog that has wondered into town.  Atticus is known as “Ol’ One Shot Finch in the community for his dead eye skills with a shot gun.  After Atticus shoots the dog, Jem finds a newfound respect for his father and wants to be like him.

The most important theme in Chapter 10 is one of caring for and protecting the innocent.  In this chapter, we understand the reason for the title of the novel. Miss Maudie tells Scout and Jem that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they are beautiful creatures that only sing for our enjoyment.  The mockingbird represents the innocent in the story, people like Boo Radley and Tom Robinson.  Therefore, the most important theme to be recognized in Chapter 10 is that of protecting the innocent.

Other themes could include:

Appearance v reality—Atticus appears to be one way but, in reality, is the opposite.

Racism—the derogatory comments of Scout and Jem’s classmates show their racist views.  The rabid dog is a symbol of racism as well.  It is “diseased” and rabid, much like those who believe in being superior to others in the story.