The highlight of this section was definitely the
court case. This is the first scene where Tom Robinson is described and, from
his testimony, he seems like an absolute sweetheart. The main source of tension
I got from the section was the fact that Tom was at a disadvantage simply
because he was in a racist environment. Despite all of the evidence that is in
his favor, I wouldn’t be surprised if the jury convicted him anyway.
While Tom Robinson seems to be
innocent, I still can’t help but feel sorry for Mayella. She is uneducated and
antisocial, both of which were not from choice, but because of her families’
situation. She lives with the family known only for their lack of education and
money, and is forced to do what she can to help support it. Now she has to go
to trial against the one person who showed her any respect. This friendship and
the fact that her father may be abusing her makes it seem as though she wasn’t
in that courtroom by choice. No matter what ending this case brings, I don’t
see there being a good ending for Mayella unless something is done about her
father.
I agree the court case was definitely the highlight of this section. The way Atticus put Mayella's father into perspective was scary and interesting. He is definitely a fearsome lawyer. The way he appeals to the jury is great as well. It's sad that it wasn't surprising he lost.
ReplyDeleteI too seemed to feel pity upon Mayella, with everything she has dealt with she almost seems like a victim in the book as well, but then when i start to feel pity for her she gives me a reason not to like her.
ReplyDeleteAngel--
ReplyDeleteI never considered feeling sorry for Mayella. You provide a new perspective. You're right--Mayella did have a rough life. How much can we blame her for Tom Robinson's verdict with this in mind, I wonder.