Scout's ability to read and write is also a reflection of gender equality at the time. As a girl, Scout is not expected to learn and pursue a career the way her father has. All of the women around Scout typically live and work in their own homes. By teaching Scout at an early age the value of her education, Atticus leads her away from a future as a housewife and traditional gender roles. By allowing and even encouraging Scout to read and write, Atticus allows her to grow and develop a sense of agency. This is in direct contrast to Mayella, who mostly does chores in her family setting. The emphasis on Scout's reading and writing is a comment on gender roles that promotes more agency for women.
During Scout's rough first day of school, Miss Caroline chastises Scout for reading fluently and writing in cursive during class. Instead of fostering Scout's advanced abilities, Miss Caroline informs Scout that she can no longer read with her father or write at home. This news is devastating to Scout, who is an intelligent child with an affinity for learning. Some of Scout's favorite moments in life involve her sitting on Atticus's lap and reading the newspaper or a book with him. Scout also enjoys writing letters to her friend Dill, who lives in Meridian. These two academic skills provide Scout with valuable experiences that she genuinely cherishes, which is why she is so upset at Miss Caroline's declaration. Fortunately, Atticus makes a deal with Scout that he will continue to read to her if she does not mention it to Miss Caroline. Harper Lee uses Miss Caroline and her rigid teaching methods to criticize Alabama's education system.
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