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Questions and Answers

What does Atticus refer to when he speaks of defending Tom Robinson?

He is referring to the long-standing racism in Maycomb and the importance of fighting for what is right, even if it seems like a losing battle.

How does Scout's fight with Francis connect to the value of her perspective as a narrator?

Scout's childlike perspective allows the reader to see the truth more clearly, as children can sense evasion and deception.

What 'ugly things' is Atticus worried about for his family?

He is concerned about harassment and potential physical threats due to their defense of Tom Robinson.

What do we know about the Ewells and Tom Robinson's reputations?

The Ewells are rude and uneducated, while Tom Robinson is portrayed as a clean-living man who is unfairly judged because of his race. Signup and view all the answers

What is Maycomb's 'usual disease' according to Atticus?

Racism. Signup and view all the answers

What does the final sentence of the chapter convey?

It signifies that Atticus is proud of Scout and wants her to understand the impending challenges they will face. Signup and view all the answers

What lesson does Atticus want to impart through the quote about killing mockingbirds?

It is wrong to harm innocent beings, representing those like Boo Radley and Tom Robinson who deserve protection. Signup and view all the answers

How does Scout’s view of Atticus change throughout the chapter?

She realizes he is a legendary marksman after he kills a rabid dog with one shot. Signup and view all the answers

Why doesn't Atticus take pride in his shooting ability?

He believes it's a God-given talent that he had little role in developing, and views hunting as destructive. Signup and view all the answers

What is Miss Stephanie Crawford's reaction to Tim Johnson's death?

She criticizes Atticus despite his actions saving the day. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jem do when he loses control during an encounter with Mrs. Dubose?

He roughs up Scout by yanking her hair and kicking her. Signup and view all the answers

What punishment does Jem receive for his actions?

He must read to Mrs. Dubose for two hours each day. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus mean when he says it’s never an insult to be called a bad name?

He believes that such insults reveal more about the speaker's character than the person being insulted. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Mrs. Dubose keep the children longer each day?

She is trying to overcome her addiction to morphine and uses their visits as a distraction. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways is Mrs. Dubose considered heroic?

She battles her morphine addiction, choosing to die free rather than as an addict. Signup and view all the answers

What commonality do Boo Radley, Atticus, and Mrs. Dubose share?

They all defy superficial appearances, revealing deeper, admirable qualities. Signup and view all the answers

What humorous observation does Jem make about Calpurnia's age?

He comments that she doesn't look as old as Atticus, and she humorously attributes this to the inability to read. Signup and view all the answers

What nasty surprise awaits the children at the end of the chapter?

Aunt Alexandra is waiting for them on the porch. Signup and view all the answers

What reason do the children think Aunt Alexandra has come to stay?

They believe she will help Scout become more of a lady. Signup and view all the answers

What double meaning is there to Atticus's statement about Aunt Alexandra doing him a favor?

Scout interprets it as referring to the hot summer, while it alludes to rising tensions due to the trial. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jem say about Aunt Alexandra's criticisms of other families?

He points out the irony that their family is related to many she criticizes. Signup and view all the answers

What did Cousin Joshua do that impacts the Finch family?

He threatened to assassinate the president, causing a scandal that Aunt Alexandra wants to ignore. Signup and view all the answers

What is Atticus trying to explain about family heritage?

He attempts to reinforce the importance of family values, which makes him uncomfortable. Signup and view all the answers

How does Aunt Alexandra feel about Calpurnia?

Aunt Alexandra dislikes her and wants Atticus to fire her. Signup and view all the answers

How does Atticus explain the crime of rape to Scout?

He gives a flat, legal definition that uses advanced vocabulary. Signup and view all the answers

What action symbolizes the end of Jem's childhood for Scout?

When Jem discovers Dill under her bed, he calls for their father. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Dill not want to stay with his mother and stepfather?

He feels neglected and like a third wheel around them. Signup and view all the answers

According to Dill, why hasn’t Boo Radley run away?

Dill believes Boo does not have anywhere to run to. Signup and view all the answers

What is noteworthy about Atticus' interaction with the mob of men?

The interaction is held in near-whispers, highlighting the respect the men have for Atticus despite their intentions. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Jem refuse to leave Atticus when faced with danger?

Jem defiantly stays by Atticus's side, showing his support and bravery. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout's childish attempt at conversation accomplish?

She successfully diffuses the tension by engaging Mr. Cunningham in conversation. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Atticus so affectionate toward Jem, even after Jem disobeyed him?

Jem did the right thing and followed his own conscience, which Atticus has been trying to teach his children. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout learn about mob mentality?

She learns that a mob is made up of individuals who can still be reasoned with. Signup and view all the answers

Describe Mr. Dolphus Raymond's way of life and its effect upon the town.

He lives in the 'colored' part of town with an African-American woman and has mixed children, which causes controversy. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Mr. Dolphus Raymond's fiancée die?

She killed herself after discovering his affair with an African-American woman. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Jem think 'mixed' children are sad?

Because they are half-white and half-black, and aren't accepted by either group. Signup and view all the answers

What comment might the author be making about Judge Taylor's appearance?

Judge Taylor represents the theme of people being different from how they appear on the outside. Signup and view all the answers

What does the physical structure of the courthouse symbolize about the people of Maycomb?

It shows their determination to preserve the past, even at the cost of coherence. Signup and view all the answers

Why didn't Atticus explain to his children that he had to defend Tom Robinson?

He wanted to teach them about choosing to do the right thing in a difficult situation. Signup and view all the answers

Why do the four men give up their seats for Jem, Scout, Dill, and Reverend Sykes?

They show respect for Reverend Sykes and the significance of the trial to Atticus' children. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus' bare table signify at the examination's beginning?

It signifies his intelligence, preparation, and confidence in knowing the case. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout mean by saying Atticus has an 'infinite capacity for calming turbulent seas'?

He has a calming effect on those around him, diffusing tense situations effectively. Signup and view all the answers

Who was Robert E. Lee in history?

He was the leader of the Confederate Army in the U.S. Civil War. Signup and view all the answers

What item stands out on the Ewell property and what might it symbolize?

The brilliant red geraniums symbolize hope and beauty amidst destruction. Signup and view all the answers

Why doesn't Reverend Sykes force the children to leave during the testimony?

A Black man cannot order a White person, even a child, to leave, and he also doesn't want to miss the testimony. Signup and view all the answers

What does Judge Taylor mean by saying people generally see what they look for?

We are biased and tend to find information that confirms our existing beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

Why didn't Mr. Ewell have a doctor check out his daughter?

He believed it would be a waste of money and neglected his children. Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about the fact that Mr. Ewell is left-handed?

It suggests that he could have inflicted the injuries found on Mayella. Signup and view all the answers

What old saying does Scout refer to in the chapter's last line?

The old saying is, 'Don't count your chickens before they're hatched.' Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus do that makes Mayella think he's making fun of her?

He addresses her as 'ma'am' and 'Miss Mayella,' which she perceives as mockery. Signup and view all the answers

What is important about Tom Robinson's physical appearance?

He has a severely disformed left arm, which makes it impossible for him to have attacked Mayella. Signup and view all the answers

Is Mayella like her father or different from him?

She is different in that she tries to create beauty in her life, though she still mirrors his racism. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout notice about Mayella as she leaves the witness stand?

Scout notices Mayella staring at Atticus with intense hatred. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Atticus mention Tom's previous record of conviction?

To show that Tom has nothing to hide and to preemptively address potential biases. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Tom's version of the events on the evening of Nov. 21.

Tom says Mayella lured him into her house, and he resisted her advances before running away. Signup and view all the answers

What is the subtlety of Tom's predicament?

If he hits Mayella, he could be killed for it, but running makes him appear guilty. Signup and view all the answers

How is Mr. Link Deas heroic?

He publicly supports Tom Robinson, risking his social standing among white residents. Signup and view all the answers

Why was it a mistake for Tom to say he felt sorry for Mayella?

It implies he feels superior to her, which is offensive to the white community. Signup and view all the answers

What makes the statement about Atticus being the same in the courtroom as in the public streets so complimentary?

It reflects his authenticity and consistent character. Signup and view all the answers

Is Dill too sensitive when he leaves for fresh air?

No, he is responding to the injustice he witnesses in the courtroom. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Mr. Raymond pretend to be a drunkard?

It makes his unconventional lifestyle easier for others to understand. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Mr. Raymond tell Scout and Dill about his life?

He understands their perspective and feels they can handle the truth about him. Signup and view all the answers

Is Mr. Dolphus Raymond evil?

No, he's misunderstood and challenges societal norms. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Mayella throw her false accusation at Tom?

She deflected blame to avoid facing the consequences of her actions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the only institution that can serve as an equalizer of men, according to Atticus?

The courts/justice system. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Atticus defends Tom Robinson, emphasizing the importance of trying for justice despite knowing the odds are stacked against them due to historical racism in Maycomb.
His decision to take on the case is rooted in honor, integrity, and a desire to be a role model for his children.

Narrative Perspective

Scout's childlike viewpoint provides clarity and innocence, allowing the reader to see truths untainted by adult biases.
Atticus believes children can recognize deception, making Scout an effective narrator as the trial unfolds.

Community Dynamics and Racism

The Ewells represent the uneducated, classist side of Maycomb; Tom Robinson is portrayed as a decent man who is disadvantaged by racism.
Maycomb’s societal racism leads to a preference for the testimony of a disrespectable white man over an honorable black man.

Maycomb's "Usual Disease"

The term refers to the pervasive racism in Maycomb, which Atticus fears could negatively influence his children.
Through his defense of Tom Robinson, he aims to instill values of empathy and equality in Scout and Jem.

Key Character Insights

Jem’s realization of Atticus's marksmanship transforms his view of his father, showcasing Atticus's modesty despite his talents.
Atticus's disinterest in boasting about his shooting reflects his belief that natural talents should not be used destructively and are not a measure of worth.

Mrs. Dubose's Struggle

Mrs. Dubose is battling morphine addiction, and her courage to fight against it portrays her as a complex character deserving of respect.
Her interaction with Jem serves as a lesson about courage and the battles people face within themselves.

Church Visit and Integration

Jem and Scout attend Calpurnia’s church, which signifies an introduction to the African-American community and highlights segregation.
Calpurnia is revealed as a respected figure within her church, redefining the children's understanding of their housekeeper.

Family Tensions

Aunt Alexandra's visit introduces conflict in the Finch household, as she disapproves of Calpurnia and aims to reshape Scout's upbringing.
The children suspect Aunt Alexandra's true reason for staying relates to the upcoming trial and Atticus's increasing absence due to his work.

Atticus on Conscience and Integrity

Atticus teaches the children about standing firm in one's beliefs, even when facing societal pressure.
His interactions with the mob emphasize the significance of individual conscience over mob mentality, demonstrating his influence and moral authority.

Character Study: Mr. Dolphus Raymond

Mr. Raymond lives in an unconventional relationship with an African-American woman and deliberately presents a façade of alcoholism to deflect societal judgment.
His character challenges community norms and reflects the theme of individuality amidst social expectations in Maycomb.

Symbolism and Foreshadowing

The "mockingbird" symbolizes innocence meant to be protected; characters like Tom Robinson and Boo Radley embody this theme.
Scout’s insights into mob behavior show that understanding and empathy can disrupt collective hostility, hinting at the possibility of change despite entrenched beliefs.### Themes of Justice and Prejudice
The suicide of Dolphus' partner highlights the humiliation linked to societal norms regarding race and relationships.
Mixed-race children face alienation, unable to fully belong to either racial group, emphasizing the human need for community and belonging.

Character Analysis

Judge Taylor represents the dichotomy of outer appearances versus inner character, consistent with the recurring theme in the narrative exemplified through characters like Boo Radley and Atticus Finch.
Atticus Finch is a moral beacon, committed to justice for Tom Robinson despite societal pressure; his choice to defend highlights the importance of ethics over obligation.

Community Dynamics

The balcony scene reveals respect within the black community, as seen when the men give up their seats for Jem, Scout, and Reverend Sykes, acknowledging the next generation's role in justice.
The courthouse’s varied architectural styles symbolize Maycomb's struggle to merge its past with the present, signifying a broader societal resistance to change.

Legal and Moral Lessons

Atticus's unprepared table signifies confidence; he’s thoroughly prepared for the case and does not rely on materials, showcasing his intellect.
Judge Taylor’s observation about biases reinforces the idea that individuals perceive what they expect, which ties into the courtroom dynamics.

Mr. Ewell’s refusal to seek medical help for Mayella indicates neglect and adds to the complexity of their relationship; it also raises suspicions about the truth of Mayella's testimony.
Tom Robinson's physical limitations reveal the impossibility of the accusations against him, emphasizing themes of injustice highlighted throughout the trial.