(Whether we read about different people in literature to broaden our knowledge about others, or we do so out of interest, we cannot overlook the use of foils in stories. While many people can be similar to each other, others can be completely opposite. In literature, many writers use contrasts to highlight their true nature and make it more evident; when characters are compared side by side, one character is always superior to the other classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee definitely uses pairs of characters to emphasize and demonstrate the characters' themes of prejudice, racism, and inequality.) (This writing technique is especially evident with the characters: Atticus and Mr. Gilmer; Miss Maudie Atkinson and Miss Stephanie Crawford; and, finally, Walter Cunningham Sr. and Bob Ewell.)(Foils are a very useful technique in writing that is used to show how characters can be compared and contrasted with each other. The following characters have some similarities in their backgrounds, however each of them has a different perception and behavior towards the same people. Atticus Finch and Mr. Gilmer are clear examples of this because when compared side by side, in the end one character always comes out the best, this makes one character seem superior to the other. other) (Atticus and Mr. Gilmer are both highly educated men attended law school and are both white, however many of the major differences are highlighted in the trial of Tom Robinson defending Tom Robinson while Mr. Gilmer tries to prove him guilty. half of paper... Mockingbird to compare and contrast characters; this is a very useful literary term because it shows how one character can make another character seem extremely better. Many characters are clear examples of this: Atticus's respectful and fair behavior contrasted with Mr. Gilmer's rude and prejudiced behavior, Miss Maudie's sincere and open-minded personality compared to Miss Stephanie's gossipy and impulsive personality, and, finally, Walter Cunningham senior's hardworking and generous attitude compared to Bob Ewell's carefree and greedy attitude.) (Thus, it can be seen that contrasts play an important role within literature because it brings out everyone's true nature and compares them side by side.) (Many of the contrasts between the characters intensify the conflict between them, turning the story of innocence in experience into an epic struggle between good and evil.