10-6 assignment

The use of language in a novel can add significantly to the understanding of the setting. Harper Lee uses this technique to a great extent and quite creatively in To Kill a Mockingbird. The narrator of the book is Scout, who is ten years old when she is writing this story, so that gives the reader a unique point of view. The story takes place in the South in the 1930's, which is a much different time period than today, and which is reflected in the language of the text. Scout's manner of speaking is more mature (than the manner used now) and quite observant. The use of language that brings the story to life is the dialogue between the characters. The choice of words and the way they are spoken never lets the reader forget for a moment that the setting of the book is in the South (America). There are also words used that are not socially acceptable today. The first four pages of the book are narration by Scout and then, the first dialogue of the book appears and is between Jem, Scout's older brother, and Dill, their six-year old neighbor friend.
"How old are you," asked Jem, "four-and-a-half?"
"Goin' on seven."
"Shoot no wonder, then," said Jem, jerking his thumb at me. "Scout yonder's been readin' ever since she was born, and she ain't even started to school yet. You look right puny for goin' on seven."
Very quickly in the book, the reader is drawn into the setting by this choice of language. If Harper Lee had chosen not to use language specific to the setting, a great impact would have been lost and the book may well have not been so engaging and moving to the reader.