Following the viewing of the film To Kill A Mockingbird, I have noted several differences that separate the movie and the novel. Here I will state three significant differences I saw between the two renditions.

Firstly, many side characters that appear frequently in the book do not appear at all in the novel. Many Maycomb residents, such as Miss Rachel, Mr. Avery, Miss Caroline, Burris Ewell, Little Chuck Little, Uncle Jack Finch, Aunt Alexandra Finch and Francis Hancock. The removal of these characters, although they may seem quite insignificant, ruins a lot of the Finch childrens’ character development. For example, Alexandra plays a huge role in the novel, coming to live with the Finch family and uptaking a motherly role while the trial is underway. She helps Scout to develop into a more mature and traditionally feminine person, which is a huge story arc for Scout. Without her aunt, there is something about her character that is missing at the end of the film.

Secondly, many plot points that enhance the story are removed entirely. Mrs. Dubose’s drug addiction, Calpurnia taking the children to First Purchase and Scout’s first day of school all contribute to progression in Scout (and also usually Jem’s) character. For example, Scout may not have appreciated reading as much as she did if Miss Caroline hadn’t chastised her for being literate at a young age, and the power of words is one of the central themes of the novel.

Lastly, a few characters of great importance are barely given their moment to shine on the silver screen. Calpurina, the Finch family nanny/cook is more than what she appears to be, becoming both a friend to Atticus and a maternal figure to Jem and Scout. In the film, she is not nearly as involved as she should be. This puts a tamper on the close-knit bond of the Finches and Cal that can be felt when reading the novel. Miss Maudie Atkinson, who also barely appears in the movie, is very important to Scout’s journey in maturity. She teaches her right from wrong and continually shows her compassion.