The term refers to a type of soap, traditionally made from olive oil, water, and alkali. Its significance in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird lies in its association with cleanliness and purity, often juxtaposed against the prejudice and moral decay present in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama. For example, the characters’ bathing habits might symbolize their commitment to personal hygiene and, by extension, a certain level of moral rectitude.
Its importance stems from the symbolic representation of inner virtue and societal expectations. The use of it in the novel subtly underscores themes of hypocrisy and the contrast between outward appearances and inner character. Understanding the historical context of this particular soap helps to illuminate the cultural values and social norms prevalent during the time period in which the story is set, particularly regarding domesticity and societal expectations of women.
