The book has had a huge impact on society, helping the post 1950s world deal more clearly with the subject of civil rights, racial injustice, and the eradication of childhood innocence. "In the 20th century, To Kill a Mockingbird is probably the most widely read book dealing with race in America, and its protagonist, Atticus Finch, the most enduring fictional image of racial heroism" (Crespino, 2000, 9).

There are numerous themes that also make this novel an enduring classic -- gender roles, compassion, truth, and while most scholars and librarians believe this is a book that everyone should read while alive, there are numerous critics who object to the novel's treatment of black roles and racial epithets. Fortunately, reason has prevailed, for it is just exactly those stereotypical characterizations and use of language that Lee wants the reader to become incensed with rage and disbelief that just a few short...
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