Reading and Interpreting the Works of Harper Lee

For most of her life, Harper Lee was (reluctantly) famous for her classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird. Lee’s newest book, Go Set a Watchman, caused quite a media frenzy even before its publication. This text examines how Lee’s Southern background (she was a descendant of General Robert E. Lee) and racial tensions in the Deep South during that time came together to influence the plot, characters, and themes of To Kill a Mockingbird. This volume also explores the history of Go Set a Watchman and the controversy surrounding it, comparing its themes and structure with Lee’s beloved classic. Copious excerpts from the two works along with critical analysis help students interpret and understand the writings of this Pulitzer Prize-winning author.