"The old campaigner"
This particular phrase, describing Dill, is an ironical exaggeration that helps the reader gain an understanding of the immaturity of Scout. It is ironical because, though she has spent many years with Dill, they are both essentially children- Dill, at about 10 years old, is far from "an old campaigner".
Also ironic is the fact that though Dill is "an old campaigner" he has never experienced anything like the upcoming lynch mob scenario. Harper Lee uses this literary phrase cleverly, displaying several things about Scout's character and thoughts all at once.
Also ironic is the fact that though Dill is "an old campaigner" he has never experienced anything like the upcoming lynch mob scenario. Harper Lee uses this literary phrase cleverly, displaying several things about Scout's character and thoughts all at once.