Christy's+Cal+Page

One of the major character I would like to talk about is Calpurnia, the cook of the Finch family. She is regarded as a Finch family member by Scout. Here are some quotes that show her true personality:


 * "There goes the meanest man ever God blew breath into," murmured Calpurnia, and she spat meditatively into the yard. We looked at her in surprise, for Calpurnia rarely commented on the ways of white people. (Page 15 Middle)
 * Calpurnia is a careful black person. She thinks before she says anything to prevent causing troubles. Even she does not like a person, she will not speak out loudly but silently. Thus, she only murmurs about Mr. Radley's death.


 * "Yo' folks might be better'n the Cunninghams but it don't count for nothin' the way you're disgracing' 'em - if you can't act fit to eat at the table you can just set here and eat in the kitchen!" (Page 33 Up)
 * Calpurnia is understanding and educated . She knows the difference between the rich and the poor. She reminds Scout that if she wants to give Walter Cunningham a helping hand, it would be better for her to choose some other ways that does not mortify the needy.


 * "Shut your eyes and open your mouth and I'll give you a surprise," she said. (Page 38 Up)
 * Calpurnia is kind. She does not remember grudges with others. She pays attention to the one around her, like she notices Scout's unhappiness for her first school day and gives her care to make her delighted.

Calpurnia is like the seven drafts in the folk tale 'Snow White'. They are helpful characters in the story. []


 * "I don't care, I'm gonna tell 'em." (Page 124 Middle)
 * Cal is a timid person. She will lose her control when she scares. She does not think what the effect will come up and keeps on asking for help.


 * Calpurnia murmured, "Sweet Jesus help him," and put her hands to her cheek. (Page 127 Middle)
 * Cal is a caring person. She worries the one that she loves.