The Deception of Appearances

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.