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Questions and Answers
What are at least two instances of foreshadowing in the first several paragraphs?
What are at least two instances of foreshadowing in the first several paragraphs?
Scout notes the short peace ending and the ominous statement about men outside.
What are the men talking about as the children listen from the window?
What are the men talking about as the children listen from the window?
They are discussing Tom Robinson and concerns over his safety.
What does Atticus say that causes the men to close in on him?
What does Atticus say that causes the men to close in on him?
Atticus states that Tom might go to the chair, but not until the truth is told.
What is Jem worried about after the men leave?
What is Jem worried about after the men leave?
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What surprising action does Atticus take that suggests something is wrong?
What surprising action does Atticus take that suggests something is wrong?
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What do Jem and Scout do after Atticus leaves the house?
What do Jem and Scout do after Atticus leaves the house?
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Where do the children find Atticus when they spot him?
Where do the children find Atticus when they spot him?
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Why have the men come to the jail?
Why have the men come to the jail?
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What does Scout realize as she bursts through the crowd?
What does Scout realize as she bursts through the crowd?
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Study Notes
Chapter 15 Overview
- Scout senses an end to a brief peaceful period, foreshadowing tension in Maycomb.
- The presence of men outside the Finch home hints at an impending crisis related to death or politics.
Discussion Among Men
- Men discuss Tom Robinson, indicating their anxiety about his safety.
- Heck Tate expresses nervousness regarding potential trouble, especially from the Old Sarum crowd.
- Mr. Link Deas suggests moving the trial to alleviate tensions, but Heck dismisses the idea's feasibility.
Atticus's Stand
- Atticus asserts the importance of truth in Robinson’s case, prompting the men to encroach upon him.
- The situation escalates until Jem's scream about a ringing phone distracts the mob, causing them to disperse.
Jem's Concerns
- Jem expresses his fears that a mob may target Atticus, reflecting his protective instincts and awareness of the danger surrounding his father.
Atticus's Actions
- Atticus surprises Scout and Jem by carrying an extension cord with a bulb, hinting at his preparedness for a confrontation.
- His decision to drive instead of walk indicates he senses potential danger.
Journey to the Courthouse
- Concerned for Atticus's safety, Jem, Scout, and Dill head to the courthouse, demonstrating their loyalty and courage.
Finding Atticus
- The children locate Atticus outside the jail, where he reads under the light bulb, reinforcing his calm demeanor despite the surrounding tension.
The Lynching Threat
- A mob approaches the jail with intentions to lynch Tom Robinson, inferred from their aggressive comments and demeanor.
- Lynching represented a stark threat during this era, particularly for black individuals accused of crimes against white individuals.
Scout's Misunderstanding
- In an attempt to surprise Atticus, Scout inadvertently enters a hostile crowd of strangers, revealing her naivety.
- Atticus attempts to protect his children from the mob by instructing Jem to take them home, showcasing his paternal instincts and awareness of danger.
- Scout’s defensiveness over Jem illustrates her emerging bravery amid chaos.
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Description
Explore the tension-filled events of Chapter 15 in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. This chapter highlights the escalating threat surrounding Tom Robinson's trial and Atticus's unwavering stance for truth. Delve into Jem's protective instincts as danger looms over their family.
