Scout, the young narrator in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, doesn’t explicitly compare Bob Ewell to a specific animal. However, the imagery and descriptions surrounding him evoke a sense of danger and predatory behavior, often associated with certain animals. While there isn’t a direct “Scout says Bob Ewell is like a…” moment, understanding the context and descriptions can help us infer the animalistic qualities attributed to him.
Bob Ewell: A Predatory Presence in Maycomb
Throughout the novel, Bob Ewell is depicted as a menacing figure, particularly towards the Finch family and Tom Robinson. His actions and the language used to describe him create a distinct image of a lurking predator. Let’s delve into some key examples:
“Like a Cat Stalking a Mouse”
Although not a direct comparison from Scout, Bob Ewell’s actions often resemble a cat stalking its prey. He lurks in the shadows, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. His attack on Jem and Scout on their way home from the Halloween pageant exemplifies this behavior. He hides in the darkness, silently following them before launching his vicious assault. This scene paints a clear picture of a predator ambushing vulnerable prey, much like a cat would a mouse.
A “Low-Down Sneak” with “Mad Dog” Eyes
Scout describes Bob Ewell as a “low-down sneak,” highlighting his cowardly and deceitful nature. He operates in the shadows, relying on trickery and violence rather than direct confrontation. Furthermore, witnesses in the trial describe his eyes as having a “mad dog” quality, suggesting a rabid and uncontrolled aggression. This imagery further reinforces the animalistic association, linking him to a dangerous and unpredictable animal known for its aggression.
“Crawler” and “Varmit”: Dehumanizing Language
The community often refers to Bob Ewell as a “crawler” and a “varmit.” These terms strip him of his humanity, reducing him to the level of a pest or a creature to be despised and eliminated. This dehumanizing language reinforces the perception of him as an undesirable animal, further solidifying his predatory image. This language, while not a direct comparison to a specific animal, contributes to the overall sense of him being a dangerous outsider to the Maycomb community.
Bob Ewell's house in the movie adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird
Conclusion: More Than Just an Animal
While Scout doesn’t explicitly compare Bob Ewell to one specific animal, Lee uses vivid language and imagery to associate him with predatory behavior and animalistic characteristics. The descriptions of him lurking in the shadows, attacking from behind, and possessing a “mad dog” glare all contribute to this image. By using such language, Lee effectively portrays Bob Ewell as a dangerous and menacing figure, highlighting the threat he poses to the innocent characters in the novel. The lack of a specific animal comparison allows readers to interpret the animalistic qualities attributed to Bob Ewell, making his character even more chilling and impactful. He represents the darker, more primal side of human nature, a force that threatens to destroy the innocence and goodness represented by characters like Scout and Jem.
