Themes in To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird has a strong overall theme of prejudice. This theme is shown in small forms throughout the first section of the book; the strongest example being Scout and other characters consistent judgment of people based on their family backgrounds. Jem, Scout, and Dill's fascination with Boo Radley is also based partly on prejudice, as most of their opinions about him have been formed by listening to gossip. There are also a few small references to racial segregation, most of which are the result of the case Atticus has decided to defend.
In the second part of the book, the theme narrows specifically to racism. Prejudice is very obviously present throughout the trial, specifically. However, this is not the only example; before the trial, Jem and Scout attend Calpurnia's church. They meet a spiteful woman there named Lula, who tells Calpurnia that she should not be bringing the two children to "their church", (P.119) in reference to their different races. The theme of prejudice seem to intensify throughout the book, finally leading up to climaxes. There may be another peak later on in the book.