Chapters 12-14
Why is the church collecting $10?
For Helen Robinson and her family.
What does Atticus mean when he says that Mr. Cunningham has "blind spots"?
Sometimes our beliefs and prejudices get in our way and prevent us from seeing things as they truly are.
Why does Mayella think Atticus is mocking her? Why does she feel this way?
He called her "Miss" and "ma'm." She's never been addressed like that before.
Why do you think that Calpurnia and Aunt Alexandra were so upset that the children were watching the trial?
They believe that the children shouldn't be exposed to the harsh subjects of the case and the possibility that Tom would be found guilty.
How is it revealed that Mrs. Merriweather is a hypocrite?
She talks about saving the tribes in Africa, but has no pity or understanding for the African Americans in Maycomb.
What is Tom Robinson accused of and why won't anyone hire his wife?
He is accused of raping Mayella Ewell and no one wants anything to do with him or his family.
Why does Atticus inquire if anyone called for a doctor? Why is this important?
There are no other witnesses.
Why did Tom run away from the Ewell place even though he says he was innocent?
The fact that he was alone with Mayella incriminated him already.
What does Atticus mean when he says, "They've done it before and they did it tonight and they'll do it again and when they do it - seems that only children weep"?
Atticus is referring to the racism and prejudice that found Tom and so many other innocent African-Americans guilty.
Why does Miss Maudie say that the town is "paying the highest tribute" to Atticus?
The people who believe that black people deserve a fair trial are trusting Atticus to do the right thing.
Why has Aunt Alexandra come to Maycomb?
To help raise Jem and Scout and teach Scout how to become a lady.
Why does Atticus ask Ewell to write his name?
To see which was his dominant hand.
Why does Dill get to upset at Mr. Gilmer that he becomes sick?
Mr. Gilmer was treating Tom so poorly on the stand.
Why does Miss Maudie believe that appointing Atticus was no accident?
Judge Taylor knew that Atticus was unbiased and would do his best to defend Tom.
Why won't Jem let Scout kill the roly-poly?
Like the mockingbird and Tom, it didn't do anything to hurt anyone.
What is the premise of the "talk" Aunt Alexandra makes Atticus have with the children?
They need to remember their family name and start acting like Finches.
Why does Dolphus Raymond let Maycomb believe rumors about him?
He is a misfit and is happy with his existence. The rumors give the public something to believe and blame for his condition.
What does Atticus mean by "This case is as simple as black and white?"
The evidence is not only clear-cut and obvious, but the case also boils down to skin color.
Why does Atticus defend Bob's actions to Jem? What is Atticus's hope?
Atticus publicly shamed him and if getting spit on save Mayella another beating, he would take it.
What was Mr. Underwood's editorial about? Why does he claim it was a senseless killing?
It was about Tom's death and the senseless shooting of songbirds.
How do the people of Maycomb begin to treat Atticus and the children?
The people of Maycomb begin to shun the family. Children call Atticus names and taunt Jem and Scout.
What does Sout mean when she says, "I thought Jem was counting his chickens?"
That he was assuming the case was won already.
How does Atticus explain that the case is not about Tom, but actually about Mayella and society?
He is bringing attention to the fact that Mayella is actually the guilty one and that societal norms make it impossible for Tom to defend himself.
Why did Atticus put a Cunningham on the jury?
The night at the jail, Scout earned Walter Cunningham's respect. He was probably the one man on the jury that did not claim Tom was guilty.
How does Scout's relationship with Aunt Alexandra change during the tea party?