To Kill a Mockingbird Analysis

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Questions and Answers

What event does Atticus inform Calpurnia and Aunt Alexandra about?

Tom Robinson's death (correct)

Tom Robinson's trial verdict

Calpurnia's visit to the Robinsons

Aunt Alexandra's decision to leave

How did Aunt Alexandra react to Tom Robinson's death?

She wrote a letter to the newspaper.

She organized a community meeting.

She remained indifferent.

She broke down emotionally. (correct)

What does Braxton Underwood compare Tom's death to in his editorial?

An accident at the factory

The execution of criminals

The senseless slaughter of a songbird (correct)

The loss of a pet

What was the community's reaction after Tom Robinson's death?

Interest in the event lasted for two days. Signup and view all the answers

What does Aunt Alexandra's behavior suggest about Scout's ability to respond to adversity?

Scout should mirror her mother’s strength. Signup and view all the answers

What was Calpurnia's main disappointment regarding Jem after the events in the courtroom?

He did not understand the importance of the trial. Signup and view all the answers

What action did Atticus take after realizing the children were missing?

He sent them home immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What was Jem's belief regarding the outcome of the trial?

He believed in their chances of winning. Signup and view all the answers

What was the children's situation during the trial?

They were bored and fell asleep. Signup and view all the answers

How did Scout describe the atmosphere in the courtroom after the jury's verdict?

Dreamlike and surreal. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Reverend Sykes significant in the courtroom scene?

He saved seats for the children. Signup and view all the answers

What did Atticus do as he left the courtroom after the trial's outcome?

He comforted Tom Robinson. Signup and view all the answers

What was Aunt Alexandra's reaction upon discovering where the children had been during the trial?

She was shocked and speechless. Signup and view all the answers

What was Atticus's emotional response to the outcome of the jury's verdict?

He was saddened and cried. Signup and view all the answers

What attitude did Aunt Alexandra have towards the trial's outcome?

She believed it was unwise to let the children win. Signup and view all the answers

What advice did Jem give to Atticus regarding the law?

To change the law regarding capital offenses. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jem perceive Boo Radley's behavior?

Boo preferred seclusion to avoid judgment. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Maycomb society does Jem identify as a significant social divide?

Family background and education. Signup and view all the answers

What did Calpurnia reveal about the food on the table the morning after the trial?

It was a gesture of support from Tom Rob's supporters. Signup and view all the answers

What did Bob Ewell do at the post office that concerned the children?

He spat at Atticus and threatened him. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Atticus stay calm during Bob Ewell's confrontation?

He was dismissive of Ewell's behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What does Aunt Alexandra believe about the Cunningham family?

They are unworthy of friendship. Signup and view all the answers

What societal issue did Mrs. Merriweather discuss at the missionary gathering?

The struggles faced by the Mrunas. Signup and view all the answers

What is the children's impression of Maycomb's adults' behavior during discussions about the trial?

They felt it was hypocritical and judgmental. Signup and view all the answers

How did Atticus feel about the evidence presented in the trial?

It was based on indirect evidence and questionable. Signup and view all the answers

What custom did Aunt Alexandra follow when hosting guests?

She offered refreshments to create a welcoming atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 21 Summary

Children's inappropriate courtroom presence: Children were present in the courtroom, which Calpurnia disapproved of; Jem was particularly at fault for not understanding.
Unexpected courtroom absence: The children spent the afternoon outside, with the courtroom mysteriously empty.
Children's reaction to trial: Jem maintained hope in Atticus' win; Scout understood the legal details.
Courtroom stillness and sleep: The courtroom was remarkably quiet, with many figures sleeping throughout the trial.
Symbolism in the courtroom observation: Scout noticed different people in the room by their appearance (hair color, etc.) before the verdict.
Symbolic courtroom attempt for hope: Jem and Scout attempted to collectively will a better outcome using the power of hope, but failed.
Guilty verdict: The jury concluded Tom Robinson to be guilty, causing fear and anxiety among those present.
Atticus's final moments: Atticus had a private moment with Tom Robinson just before the verdict, then put his coat over Tom’s shoulder.
Respectful community response: The black community showed respect for Atticus by standing in honor of his efforts.

Chapter 22 Summary

Post-trial disappointment: Jem and the children were deeply affected by the guilty verdict; Jem, particularly.
Aunt Alexandra's reaction: Aunt Alexandra expressed sympathy and curiosity about Atticus' well-being.
Atticus's composure: Atticus appeared unaffected but was privately distressed.
Tom Robinson supporters’ appreciation: Tom Robinson's supporters expressed gratitude to Atticus with food.
Community reactions: The community reacted with confusion or dismay regarding the verdict.
Community distrust of adults: The children expressed frustration regarding adult discussion of their father and the trial.
Public support for Robinson: The community and key figures like Judge Taylor supported Tom Robinson and expressed interest in his defense.

Chapter 23 Summary

Threats to Atticus: Bob Ewell confronted Atticus at the post office, threatening him.
Atticus's response: Atticus remained calm, dismissing Ewell's threats.
Children's fear: The children felt threatened by the encounter with Ewell, but were assured by Atticus.
Hopes for appeal: The community expressed hope for Tom's appeal.
Injustice of Tom's trial: Atticus questioned the justice of the death sentence and the use of indirect evidence.

Chapter 24 Summary

Dill's departure and Jem's instruction: Dill left, though Jem taught him swimming, excluding Scout.
Social gathering: The missionary friends brought up discussions on the Mrunas.
Scout’s future aspirations: Scout was pressured to choose a ladylike life
Tom Robinson's death: Tom's death during his escape was reported in the community.
Community reaction to Tom's death: The community reacted with different responses; some were disappointed, others thought his death was a typical occurrence.

Chapter 25 Summary

Atticus's visit to the Robinson's family: Atticus visited Tom Robinson's family.
Tom Robinson's death details: The details of Tom Robinson’s death were discussed, with some pointing to the likely poor plan, his typical manner, or the eagerness to see the trial's outcome.
Community disapproval of Atticus: The community’s treatment of Atticus (and potential support for Tom Robinson) shows the strength of his character.

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Description

Explore key events and reactions in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' related to Tom Robinson's death. Understand how Atticus, Calpurnia, and Aunt Alexandra respond to this pivotal moment in the story. Reflect on Braxton Underwood's editorial comparison in this significant discussion.