To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 11: Mrs. Dubose Character Analysis
This Mrs. Dubose character analysis lesson explores courage, addiction, conflict, and moral complexity in To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 11. Students use a structured worksheet to examine her traits, words, interactions, and the perspective Atticus offers on her struggle.
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Learning Goals
- I will be able to analyze and understand the complexity of Mrs. Dubose’s character.
- I will be able to identify and articulate the moral lessons and personal challenges presented through Mrs. Dubose’s character.
- I will be able to engage in personal reflection about Mrs. Dubose, expressing my views and sympathies towards her character, and critically assess her contribution to the overall message and themes of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Materials
TKAM Digital Copy
TKAM Audio Chapter 11 (37:08)
Student Instructions – Mrs. Dubose Character Analysis
Process
- Look over the student instructions with the students.
- Read Chapter 11.
- Have students complete the handout.
Mrs. Dubose Character Analysis
1. Character Description
Physical Description: Describe Mrs. Dubose’s physical appearance as depicted in the chapter.
Personality Traits: List the key personality traits of Mrs. Dubose. Provide examples from the text to support each trait.
2. Key Quotes
Direct Quotes by Mrs. Dubose: List and analyze at least two quotes directly spoken by Mrs. Dubose.
Quotes About Mrs. Dubose: List and analyze two quotes about Mrs. Dubose spoken by other characters.
3. Character Interactions
Mrs. Dubose and Jem: Describe their interactions. What do these interactions reveal about her character?
Mrs. Dubose and Atticus: How does Atticus interact with Mrs. Dubose? What does this tell us about her character and Atticus’s character?
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4. Moral Lessons and Challenges
Moral Lessons: What moral lessons does Mrs. Dubose’s character present to Jem and Scout?
Personal Challenges: What personal challenges does Mrs. Dubose face, and how do they impact her character?
5. Symbols and Metaphors
Symbolism of Camellias: Discuss the symbolism of Mrs. Dubose’s camellias in the story.
6. Character Development and Changes
Perception Over Time:
How does your perception of Mrs. Dubose change from the beginning to the end of the chapter? What events lead to these changes?
7. Personal Reflections
Personal Views:
Write about your personal feelings towards Mrs. Dubose. Do you sympathize with her? Why or why not?
8. Discussion Questions
Courage and Character:
Do you think Mrs. Dubose is a courageous character? Why?
9. Critical Thinking
Character’s Contribution: In what ways does Mrs. Dubose’s character contribute to the overall message of “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
10. Creative Extension
Creative Task (Optional):
Write a diary entry from Mrs. Dubose’s perspective or a letter to her from one of the main characters, reflecting on their interactions.
Curriculum Connections
Ontario Grade 9 English (ENL1W): This lesson supports Strand C and Strand D through characterization, thematic interpretation, close reading, and written response.
Common Core: RL.9-10.1, RL.9-10.2, RL.9-10.3, and W.9-10.9.
Differentiation and Extensions
Differentiation: Break the character analysis into traits, actions, quotations, and Atticus’s interpretation of courage, then let students synthesize those notes into a paragraph.
Extension: Ask students to evaluate whether Mrs. Dubose complicates or strengthens the novel’s developing definition of courage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the Mrs. Dubose analysis?
Students examine how Harper Lee develops a complex character and uses Mrs. Dubose to challenge simple definitions of courage and morality.
Should students agree with Atticus’s view of Mrs. Dubose?
No. The lesson works well when students evaluate his interpretation and support their own position with evidence.
How can I support students who find the character contradictory?
Use a two-column chart for harmful behaviour and evidence of determination or courage before asking students to form a judgment.
Continue the Unit
← Previous: Chapter 10 | Unit Plan | Next: Part One Quotes →