Citing To Kill a Mockingbird in MLA Format: A Comprehensive Guide
To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, is a staple of American literature curricula and a frequent subject of academic discussion. Knowing how to cite it correctly in MLA format is crucial for any student or researcher. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to cite To Kill a Mockingbird in various contexts, including in-text citations and Works Cited entries.
Understanding MLA Formatting
The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely used in humanities disciplines. Its primary goals are clarity, consistency, and ease of navigation for readers. Key features include:
- In-text citations: Briefly referencing the source within the main body of your paper.
- Works Cited page: A separate page listing all sources cited in the paper, providing complete bibliographic information.
- Parenthetical citations: Typically include the author's last name and page number (Author's Last Name Page Number).
In-Text Citations
The way you cite To Kill a Mockingbird in your text depends on how you introduce the quote or reference.
- If you mention the author's name in the sentence:
Lee powerfully illustrates Scout's coming-of-age experience through her interactions with Boo Radley (123).
- If you don't mention the author's name in the sentence:
The children's fascination with Boo Radley reflects a deeper societal fear of the unknown (Lee 123).
Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited entry for To Kill a Mockingbird follows a specific format, depending on the edition you are using:
For a standard print edition:
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. [Publisher], [Year of Publication].
Example:
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. J. B. Lippincott, 1960.
For an ebook edition:
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. [Publisher], [Year of Publication]. [Format], [URL or Database name, if applicable].
Example:
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2006. Kindle Edition.
Important Considerations:
- Publisher: Include the name of the publishing company.
- Year of Publication: Use the copyright year printed on the title page or copyright page of the book. For ebooks, check the metadata.
- Edition: If you're using a specific edition (e.g., 50th Anniversary Edition), include that information after the title.
- Ebook information: If you consulted an ebook, specify the format (e.g., Kindle Edition, EPUB) and if it's from a specific database (e.g., Project Gutenberg).
Multiple Works by the Same Author:
If you cite multiple works by Harper Lee, include a shortened title in your in-text citation to distinguish between them. For example:
Lee's portrayal of childhood innocence in Mockingbird contrasts sharply with the harsher realities presented in Go Set a Watchman (Mockingbird 123; Watchman 45).
Conclusion:
Accurately citing To Kill a Mockingbird is essential for academic integrity. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your citations are correct and conform to MLA style, helping your readers easily access the sources you've consulted. Remember to consult the most recent MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date guidelines. Proper citation demonstrates your understanding of academic research standards and enhances the credibility of your work.
