There has never been a period in human history without the victimization of a certain category of people. Harper Lee's book, To Kill a Mockingbird, is an example of different types of victimization. There are two characters, each of whom is not welcomed by society in one way or another. The discrimination against Tom Robinson is based on the man's race. Meanwhile, Boo Radley is not accepted by the majority due to his eccentricity. These two characters are related because, to some extent, they are not understood by others. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Two major similarities between Tom and Boo are that they are innocent and their only problem is difference. Tom does not look like the majority because he is “a colored man”. Boo's difference lies in his caring and appearance: his teeth are "yellow and rotten", his eyes "wide" and he is very tall. Due to these non-standard features, both characters suffer. Even though they have done nothing wrong, Boo and Tom are treated with prejudice and damnation. When it comes to innocence, Tom's biggest problem is that he is black while his accuser is white. The woman puts “Tom’s life on the line” to “get rid of her own guilt.” Boo hasn't done anything wrong either: he is genuinely kind to the children who manage to establish communication with him. Despite the similarities, there are also divergent characteristics between the two characters. First of all, it is the race of the two men. As the scenario shows, skin color can cause a lot of mistrust and judgment. Second, the lives Tom and Boo lead have a different level of openness. The townspeople know a few things about Tom and his family. Meanwhile, Boo's lifestyle is isolated: he only goes out "when it's dark." Therefore, skin color and divergent lifestyles constitute disparities between the two “mockingbirds.” Yet despite these differences, both men experience the same level of hostility from others. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Although Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are two very different characters in To Kill a Mockingbird, they are both mockingbirds because society refuses to accept them as they are. Through the actions and lives of the characters, readers can learn about the unfair treatment of people based on prejudice and about objective and fair people willing to defend the rights of others. Both characters are important because they teach the reader how a corrupt character can lead to destroying someone's life. Along with this, Tom and Boo are examples of how one should stand up for one's uniqueness and opinions. Harper Lee's book addresses many crucial issues in life. The author explains that victimizing a weak member of society should not be justified.