Parnika Jain's Key Ideas from The Help
by Kathryn Stockett

The Help explores the complexity of relationships and the complex nature of people. The maids, who work for the characters, have conflicting feelings towards white women and their children. Skeeter's mother, Charlotte, is often cold and critical, but she still loves her. The book also highlights the complexity of individuals, such as Lou Anne's depression and her close friendship with Louvenia. Skeeter realizes that pigeonholes by race or economic status are futile and that celebrating people's differences would make society more fulfilling.

The Help explores the societal judgment of race and appearance in Jackson society. The character Hilly Holbrook represents the negative perception of Black people, thus the laws. However, the novel also shows the absurdity of judging people based on appearance. Skeeter, a tall, unmanageable white character, and Aibileen, a fat child, emphasize the importance of inner qualities.

Celia Foote, a white woman in Jackson, is ostracized by the white women due to her tackiness and marriage to Hilly's ex-boyfriend. Despite this, Celia is kinder and less prejudiced than the women she tries to impress.