Exploring Moral Complexity and Ethical Dilemm...

Exploring Moral Complexity and Ethical Dilemmasin The Novel" To Killa Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Author Name : Freeda Janet Flavia. P, Malavika

ABSTRACT Southern gothic literature is a genre of Southern writhing that focuses on the grotesque. This literature originated with Horace Walpole 's "The castle of otaranto considered the first gothic novel. The key themes include the Sublime, isolation and exploration of human psychology. It also influenced modern horror and remains popular in contemporary culture, inspiring films , television and games. Harper Lee is the best known for her novel to kill a mockingbird,published in 1960 . The novel won the Pulitzer prize in 1916 and had become a classic of modern American literature. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee incorporates elements of Gothic literature through its portrayal of the Radley house as a mysterious, eerie place and the character of BooRadley as a reclusive ,enigmatic figure. The novel also explores themes of fear, prejudice, and the unknown, creating a sense of suspense and unease. Harper Lee employs Gothic elements to heighten the novel' s atmosphere and themes. The Radley house is depicted as dark, decaying, and filled with mystery, invoking a sense of fear and curiosity among the towns people. Boo Radley, a reclusive and misunderstood figure, adds to the Gothic ambiance with rumors and eerie tales surrounding him. Additionally, the novel addresses the darker aspects of human nature, such as racism and moral decay, enhancing its Gothic undertones. This novel published in 1960 , remains a profound exploration of racial injustice and moral growth in the American south. This aims to analyse the novel' s portrayal of racial discrimination and it's impact on the characters and society of maycomb , Alabama . Employing a critical literary approach, this paper examines the symbolic significance of the mockingbird , the role of the legal system , and the moral development of scout and Jem finch . The findings reveal that lee' s narrative not only critiques the deeply ingrained racial prejudices of the time but also underscores the potential for empathy and moral courage in challenging social injustices. By juxtaposing the innocence of childhood with the hard realities of adult prejudice, "tokilla mockingbird" offers a timeless commentary on the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of justice. This study highlights the enduring relevance of lee' s work and it's contribution to discussion in race , morality and legal ethics