The Trial & Justice
Why Atticus defends Tom Robinson?
It is the right thing to do.
Symbolism of the mockingbird?
Innocence and goodness.
What U.S. State does this story take place in?
Alabama
Who is Scout Finch?
The narrator of the story. Scout is an intelligent, curious, and sometimes hot-headed young girl. Her development throughout the novel includes learning about the complexities of justice, race, and morality in Maycomb.
Define Fortitude
Courage in pain or adversity. Many characters in the novel, especially Atticus, demonstrate fortitude in the face of hostility and injustice.
Why was Tom Robinson is convicted of a crime he didn't commit?
Due to racial prejudice.
Who are two characters who represent mockingbirds?
Tom Robinson and Boo Radley.
Who is Jem Finch?
Scout’s older brother. Jem matures throughout the novel, growing disillusioned with the idea of justice as he witnesses the racism and prejudice in the town. He also learns the complexities of adulthood, particularly with the trial of Tom Robinson.
Define Racial Prejudice
The unjust or unfair treatment of someone based on their race. In Maycomb, this is a pervasive theme, especially in how Tom Robinson is treated during the trial.
Did the town see Atticus as a hero?
No---because he defended a black man (though the black community highly respected him).
What major theme explains many conflicts in the story?
Injustice caused by racism.
What economic crisis made life difficult for many families in Maycomb?
The Great Depression
Who is Atticus Finch?
Scout and Jem’s father, and a lawyer in Maycomb. Atticus serves as a moral pillar of the novel, representing justice, empathy, and integrity. He defends Tom Robinson despite knowing the town's prejudices will work against him.
Define Empathy
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another. A key lesson in the novel is the importance of walking in someone else’s shoes, as expressed by Atticus.
How does Jem Finch react to the guilt verdict?
Confused and upset by the injustice.
What type of character does Boo Radley become?
A protective character who saves the kids from Bob Ewell.
What town does the story take place in?
Maycomb
Who is Tom Robinson?
A black man accused of raping Mayella Ewell. Tom represents the mockingbird in the story—an innocent man wronged by society and the judicial system. Despite his innocence, he is convicted due to racial prejudice.
Define Segregation
The separation of people, especially based on race, in public places. Maycomb during the 1930s is deeply segregated, both socially and legally.
What does the title of the novel symbolizes?
The destruction of innocence.
Do the kids change their view of Boo Radly throughout the book?
Yes---because at first they viewed him as a monster but later saw him as a giving compassionate person.
What did the evidence point to in the trial?
Bob beating up Mayella.
Who is Boo Radley
A mysterious and reclusive man who is initially feared by Scout and Jem. Throughout the novel, Boo evolves from a figure of local superstition to a compassionate, protective figure who ultimately saves Scout and Jem from Bob Ewell’s attack.
Define Stereotype
A widely held but oversimplified and generalized belief about a particular group of people. The novel examines and challenges stereotypes, particularly racial stereotypes.