The Crucial Role of Symbols in To Kill a Mockingbird In To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee, the themes and central ideas of the novel are emphasized by subtle symbols . The symbols presented throughout the novel represent not only concrete objects but also ideas, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes of the characters. Some symbols even represent more than one thing. Lee's recurring use of symbols contributes to the underlying themes and ideas of the novel. Lee's unusual title is a symbol in itself and it keeps the reader in suspense waiting for a mockingbird to enter the story. Symbols contribute to literature by causing the reader to examine the work and look for meanings other than the literal meaning. In To Kill a Mockingbird, the use of symbols plays a crucial role in the development of the novel. One of the first major symbols that emerges in the novel is Tim Johnson, a mad dog infected with rabies. Just as the dog is infected with rabies, the residents of Maycomb County are “infected” with racism (Jones 54). When Tom Robinson is brought to trial, convicted, and ultimately murdered for a crime he did not commit, no one in the town seems to show any compassion or regret for him except Atticus. Atticus describes the people of Maycomb as “mad dogs that he must face” in defending Tom (Lee 103). To further prove the symbol, Atticus is the person called to shoot and kill Tim Johnson. This action of the people of Maycomb shows their deep trust in Atticus. As Atticus shoots and kills the rabid dog, he also shoots and kills the racism in Maycomb as he steps in and defends Tom Robinson with all his might. Through this action, Atticus tries to protect his neighbors from rabies as he wishes... middle of paper ... and Boo are strange. It is obvious that Harper Lee chose them both as mockers. Lee's choice of such an unusual title is just another symbol present in the novel. Lee's use of symbols is imperative to the development of his novel. Symbols give structure and hidden meaning to the text. As the reader considers the use of symbolism, the main theme still emerges: it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. Works CitedErisman, Fred. “The Romantic Regionalism of Harper Lee.” Alabama Review April 26, 1973: 122-36. Johnson, Claudia. “The Secret Courts of Men's Hearts: Code and Law in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.” Studies in American Fiction (1991): 129-139.Jones, Carolyn. “Atticus Finch and the Mad Dog.” The Southern Quarterly Summer 1996: 56-63. Lee, Harper. To kill a mockingbird. New York, NY: JBLippincott Company, 1960.