Symbolism of To Kill a Mockingbird
The book uses a mockingbird as a symbol of innocence. Atticus Finch forbids his children to kill mockingbirds, declaring it a sin. Another symbol is a mad (rabid) dog that Atticus has to shoot to defend himself and other people. This dog symbolizes racism, prejudice and lack of humanity prevailing in the town that Atticus has to fight.
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