Chapter 12 Summary of To Kill a Mockingbird

Main Characters

• Jem Finch: Approaching adolescence, exhibiting moodiness.
• Scout Finch: Younger sister, observing changes in Jem.
• Atticus Finch: Absent due to emergency legislative duties.
• Calpurnia: Finch family housekeeper, takes children to her church.
• Dill Harris: Absent this summer, communicates via letter.
• Aunt Alexandra: Surprises the children with her arrival.
• Reverend Sykes: Welcomes the Finch children at the African-American church.
• Lula: Challenges Calpurnia for bringing white children to the church.

Key Events

• Adolescent Changes in Jem

  • Jem turns 12, showing typical adolescent angst.
  • Tells Scout to act like a lady despite previous encouragements to act differently.

• Summer Changes

  • Dill won't visit due to a new stepfather and plans to build a fishing boat.
  • Dill reassures Scout of his affection and plans for the future.

• Atticus's Absence

  • Called away to an emergency session of the state legislature.
  • Calpurnia steps in and takes Scout and Jem to her church.

• Visit to Calpurnia's Church

  • First experience for the Finch children in an African-American church.
  • Encounter with Lula who questions their presence.
  • Reverend Sykes and most of the congregation greet them warmly.
  • Collection taken up for Tom Robinson's wife.
  • Scout and Jem learn about the struggles in the African-American community.

• Post-Church Discussion

  • Discussion about language, education, and life experiences between Calpurnia, Jem, and Scout.
  • Highlights racial differences and Calpurnia's role in bridging those worlds.

Themes and Analysis

• Adolescence

  • Jem’s moodiness and shifting views reflect his transition from childhood to adulthood.
  • Scout's observations offer insights into sibling dynamics and personality contrasts.

• Racial Tensions and Community

  • The children gain exposure to the lives and struggles of African-Americans in Maycomb.
  • The differences between the black and white communities are highlighted through their church visit.

• Calpurnia's Dual Role

  • Calpurnia navigates her position between two worlds, teaching the Finch children about these differences.

• Surprising Arrival

  • Aunt Alexandra's unexpected arrival at the Finch household adds an element of surprise at the chapter's end.