The Help Explains That Racism Is Taught, Not Inherent Anonymous 11th Grade

The Help follows the lives of two black maids working for white women during the 1960’s. While helping write a book about their experiences, Aibileen continues to assist her employer Elizabeth, and watches over Elizabeth’s daughter, Mae Mobley. Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help uses literary elements such as symbolism, characterization, and plot elements to explain that racism is taught, and not naturally inherited, and show that there are preventions to racism.

It is evident that Aibileen and Mae Mobley have a special bond. She sees Aibileen as a mother figure, as her own biological mother often disregards her. Mae Mobley is only a toddler, and doesn’t understand the difference in skin color; she’s one of the only characters that show no prejudice against black people. The little girl, like all characters has a purpose, and in this case is a symbol of innocence. However, as she’s growing up in the midst of a racist community, and constantly sees poor treatment of black people, she’s more likely to follow in their footsteps. As people get older they directly and indirectly are taught that white people are superior. In chapter 7 Aibileen says, “I want to yell so loud that Baby Girl can hear me that dirty ain't a color,...