Sunday, June 21, 2009

What is Calpurnia's relationship to the Finch family in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Calpurnia is the Finch's African American cook who also looks after the children while Atticus is at work. In Chapter 12, Calpurnia explains to Scout and Jem that she grew up between the Buford Place and Finch Landing where she worked for Atticus's father. Calpurnia then moved to Maycomb when Atticus got married and has worked in his home ever since. Calpurnia is essentially family and Atticus values her skill set and personality. He defends Calpurnia in front of his prejudiced sister and explains how important Calpurnia is to their family. Although Calpurnia is not afraid to discipline Scout and Jem, she is also sympathetic to their needs. She not only teaches Scout how to write but also keeps her company when Jem and Dill play together. Calpurnia teaches Scout the importance of respecting others and also introduces the children to the African American community by inviting them to First Purchase African M.E. for Sunday service.

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Thomas Jefferson's election in 1800 is sometimes called the Revolution of 1800. Why could it be described in this way?

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