Final Answer:
One mean thing that Mrs. Dubose said to either Jem or Scout is:
b) "You're no better than your father, a disgrace!"
Step-by-step explanation:
In the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," Mrs. Dubose makes a mean-spirited comment to Jem and Scout, stating, "You're no better than your father, a disgrace!" This statement is particularly hurtful as it attacks not only the children but also their father, Atticus Finch. Mrs. Dubose is expressing disapproval not just of the children but extending her criticism to their family, reflecting her prejudiced views and attempting to undermine their sense of self-worth.
Mrs. Dubose's remark is a manifestation of the racial and societal tensions present in Maycomb. Atticus, being a principled and morally upright lawyer defending an African American man, is already a target of criticism from certain quarters. Mrs. Dubose's comment serves to not only insult the children directly but also to indirectly criticize Atticus for his perceived transgressions against the prejudiced norms of the community. The mean-spirited nature of the remark contributes to the broader themes of the novel, highlighting the deep-seated prejudices that characters like Jem, Scout, and Atticus confront in their daily lives.
Overall, Mrs. Dubose's words, targeting the children and their father, intensify the emotional impact of the narrative, emphasizing the challenges faced by the Finch family in navigating a society deeply entrenched in racial biases and discriminatory attitudes. The quote reflects the harsh realities of the social landscape depicted in the novel, adding depth to the characters' experiences and contributing to the broader commentary on justice, morality, and compassion. Option b