Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird explores the theme of hypocrisy, particularly through the character of Mrs. Merriweather. Through his interactions and comments, Lee highlights the hypocrisy present in Maycomb society. This essay will analyze the instances of hypocrisy mentioned by Mrs. Merriweather and discuss the implications. By examining the nature of hypocrisy and its effects on the characters and community, it becomes evident that Lee aims to criticize society's moral shortcomings. The hypocrites cited by Ms. Merriweather serve as an example of the pervasive hypocrisy that exists in Maycomb. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayParagraph 1: Topic Sentence: Mrs. Merriweather's Comments on the Missionary CircleMrs. Merriweather mentions the hypocrites of the Missionary Circle, a group of women who take pride in their religious beliefs and charitable work. However, their actions contradict their supposed morals. Lee uses it to highlight hypocrisy within religious communities. Supporting evidence for the text includes quotes such as “…hypocrites, Mrs. Perkins, Mrs. Buford, Mrs. Gates, and…” (Lee, 163). This quote serves as an example of characters who are known hypocrites in the Missionary Circle. The implications of this evidence are that even those who claim to be devout Christians may exhibit hypocrisy, thus challenging the notion of religious morality. Paragraph 2: Topic Sentence - Mrs. Merriweather's Comments on Atticus FinchMrs. Merriweather also mentions Atticus Finch as a hypocrite, criticizing him for defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of rape. He believes that Atticus is going against the norms and expectations of Maycomb society. Evidence to support this statement can be found in the quote, “I tell you there are some good but misguided people in this town” (Lee, 234). This quote demonstrates Mrs. Merriweather's disapproval of Atticus' actions and her belief that he is a hypocrite for not conforming to the racist beliefs of the community. The implications of this evidence are that hypocrisy can be seen in the disapproval of those who challenge social norms, suggesting that the community's values ​​are deeply flawed. Paragraph 3: Topic Sentence - Mrs. Merriweather's comments about the Cunninghams. Merriweather also mentions the Cunninghams, a poor family from Maycomb, as hypocrites. He criticizes them for not accepting charity, but they are willing to accept help from the government. Evidence to support this can be found in the quote: “…I just don't have the time or inclination to get involved with them. We can educate them until they are blue in the face…” (Lee, 238). This quote shows Mrs. Merriweather's judgment of the Cunninghams and her belief that they are hypocrites for their rejection of charity. The implications of this evidence are that hypocrisy may also be present in the judgments of those who are less fortunate, revealing the classist attitudes prevalent in Maycomb society. In conclusion, Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird showcases the theme of hypocrisy through the character of Mrs. Merriweather. The examples of hypocrisy he mentions, such as the hypocrites in the Missionary Club, his criticism of Atticus Finch, and his judgment of the Cunninghams, shed light on the moral shortcomings of Maycomb society. Lee uses these examples to critique the hypocrisy that exists within religious communities, social expectations, and classist attitudes. By exploring the implications of these cases, it becomes apparent that hypocrisy pervades the community and is a serious flaw in the moral fabric of Maycomb., 1960.