The South represents a region of the United States which demonstrates relatively
traditional values. For example, southern societies suggest men act like
gentlemen, and women act in a polite manner and wear dresses. Such
characteristics mainly emerge in small southern towns because they remain
unaffected by large groups of people from different parts of the country. Harper
Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird documents the life of a young girl growing up in
small Maycomb, Alabama. Jean Louise Finch, also known as "Scout,"
represents a young girl who attempts to find her identity. The young tomboy
receives pressure from adults who insist she should conform to the traditional
role of a southern lady. Harper Lee uses nicknames, fistfighting, virile
clothing, and undesirable women to portray Jean Louise's masculinity while
encouraging her to postpone becoming a lady. In traditional society, parents
name children according to their gender. Common names for boys include John,
Robert and James, whereas Elizabeth, Sarah, and Cathy represent standard names
for girls. The author gives her main character two common female titles, Jean
Louise. Many southern females have two first names which reinforces their role
in society as a Southern Belle, or a traditional southern lady.