What is the Significance of the Allusion to John Wesley in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'?

The inclusion of John Wesley's teachings in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is more than just a historical reference. It serves as a powerful allusion that enriches the narrative by linking personal ethical beliefs to broader social issues. This article explores the significance of the allusion to John Wesley, examining how his principles resonate with the characters and themes of the novel.

Background: The Allusion to John Wesley

John Wesley, a significant figure in the Methodist religion, was the founder of Methodism. His teachings emphasized empathy, understanding, and moral responsibility, making him a natural inspiration for To Kill a Mockingbird. In the text, the frequent mention of Wesley often connects to the moral framework that characters like Atticus Finch embody (Lee, 1960).

Atticus Finch and the Principles of Empathy and Understanding

Atticus teaches his children, Scout and Jem, the importance of treating others with kindness and fairness. This teaching is reflective of Wesley's advocacy for social reform and moral responsibility. Atticus, inspired by Wesley's principles, shows his children that being empathetic and understanding is a virtue that can navigate the challenges of a prejudiced society. For instance, when Scout and Jem are confronted with the unjust trial of Tom Robinson, Atticus’s teachings on empathy and fairness are directly invoked to guide them (Lee, 1960).

John Wesley's Moral Integrity

Wesley’s advocacy for moral integrity in the face of prejudice and injustice aligns with the themes of To Kill a Mockingbird. His teachings on the importance of loving one’s neighbor as oneself and treating others with kindness and fairness are evident throughout the narrative. This alignment underscores the novel’s exploration of how personal ethical beliefs can influence broader social issues, emphasizing the struggle for justice in a flawed society (Wesley, 2013).

Historical and Personal Context: Simon Finch and His Legacy

It is worth noting that Scouts’ description of Simon Finch, the English Methodist apothecary, brings to light a bit of hypocrisy. Simon Finch, who got rich selling medicine and used some of his earnings to buy slaves, portrays a complex man whose occupation was somewhat analogous to that of a snake oil salesman in the past. In this context, John Wesley’s teachings against both slavery and flowery language serve as a stark contrast to the actions of Simon Finch. This juxtaposition highlights the tension between professed values and practical actions (Wesley, 2013).

Conclusion

The allusion to John Wesley enriches the narrative of To Kill a Mockingbird by tying personal ethical beliefs to broader social issues. It emphasizes the struggle for justice in a flawed society, mirroring the journey of Atticus and his children in their quest to understand and navigate the prejudices around them. Understanding this allusion provides deeper insights into the novel's themes and the importance of moral integrity in the face of societal challenges.

In essence, the allusion to John Wesley serves as a bridge between the historical and the narrative, enriching the reader’s experience and deepening their understanding of the novel's complex themes.

References:

Lee, H. (1960). To Kill a Mockingbird Harper Collins. Wesley, J. (2013). Journal and Letters of John Wesley. Oxford University Press.