To Kill a Mockingbird: Chapters 10-13

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

In literature, a foil is a character who highlights the traits of another character, usually by offering a stark contrast. These contrasts reveal qualities that might not be obvious otherwise, making the main character's traits stand out more clearly.

A foil is often a secondary character, but sometimes, the foil can be a main character, too. Think of it like two puzzle pieces that fit together—one shows the details of the other.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, you'll see how foils are used to deepen your understanding of the main characters, especially Scout, Jem, and Atticus.

For example, contrasting a character with Atticus's calm, measured approach to life can help us better understand his wisdom and strong sense of justice.

These contrasts aren't always just about personality—they can also reveal hidden motivations, beliefs, and the social dynamics in Maycomb.

Break down what makes a foil and why it's so important.

• What is a foil?

A foil is a character whose traits or actions contrast with another character, especially the protagonist. This helps emphasize the protagonist's qualities by showing the opposite.

• Can a subplot be used as a foil?

Yes! Subplots can serve as a foil by introducing secondary stories or conflicts that mirror or contrast the main plot, deepening our understanding of the protagonist's journey.

• What's the difference between a foil and an antagonist?

An antagonist is a character or force directly opposing the protagonist, usually creating conflict. A foil, however, doesn't oppose the protagonist—it simply highlights their qualities by being different.

• How can a foil be used in a text?

A foil can show contrast through actions, beliefs, or moral choices. By placing a foil next to a protagonist, the author lets the reader see different sides of a character—for example, a character who impulsively could highlight the protagonist's patience or thoughtfulness.

• Can more than one foil be used?

Absolutely! In a rich story like To Kill a Mockingbird, multiple characters serve as foils to the main characters. Each foil helps reveal something different about the protagonist.

To review and explore further, watch this video on foil.

Now that you've refreshed your understanding of foils, think about the characters in To Kill a Mockingbird.

• Can you identify any characters who have been used as foils to others?

As you read Chapters 10-13, pay close attention to the new characters introduced and how they may be foils to the main characters. Note how their personalities, actions, or beliefs contrast with those of the protagonists (especially Scout and Jem).

You will need a copy of the novel for this series of Related Lessons. If you cannot find a copy at your library, school, or local bookstore, you can access an online version of To Kill a Mockingbird.

Consider these questions as you read.

• How do the main characters in these chapters act, and what motivates them?
• Do you notice any foils in these characters? How do they help highlight the main character's traits?

Take thorough notes on the characters you encounter and how they influence the protagonist. Watch for moments where these foils show us something new about Scout, Jem, or Atticus.

After reading and taking notes, move on to the Got It? section to dive deeper into these chapters.