Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does Atticus mean when he says that Mr. Cunningham has blind spots?
What does Atticus mean when he says that Mr. Cunningham has blind spots?
He sees what he wants to see
Describe the atmosphere before the trial. Why are the blacks and whites separated?
Describe the atmosphere before the trial. Why are the blacks and whites separated?
It was too loud. People were anxious and unsettled
Who is Dolphus Raymond? What do we learn about him and the way he lives his life?
Who is Dolphus Raymond? What do we learn about him and the way he lives his life?
Dolphus Raymond is a white person who pretends to be drunk so people won't question him about why he sits with black people
Why don't the Raymond children fit in?
Why don't the Raymond children fit in?
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Although Atticus has been appointed to defend Tom, why are the people of Maycomb against it?
Although Atticus has been appointed to defend Tom, why are the people of Maycomb against it?
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Who helps the kids find a seat in the courtroom? Where do they sit?
Who helps the kids find a seat in the courtroom? Where do they sit?
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Is it legal to be divided by race in courtrooms today?
Is it legal to be divided by race in courtrooms today?
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Why does Atticus ask whether anyone called for a doctor? Why is this important?
Why does Atticus ask whether anyone called for a doctor? Why is this important?
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Describe Mayella's injuries.
Describe Mayella's injuries.
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Where do the Ewells live?
Where do the Ewells live?
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Why do you think the Ewells eat squirrel, possum, and rabbit?
Why do you think the Ewells eat squirrel, possum, and rabbit?
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Summarize Bob Ewell's interpretation of the incident.
Summarize Bob Ewell's interpretation of the incident.
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Why does Atticus ask Ewell to write his name?
Why does Atticus ask Ewell to write his name?
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What do you think Jem realizes when he pounds the rail and says, 'We've got him'?
What do you think Jem realizes when he pounds the rail and says, 'We've got him'?
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What does Scout mean when she says, 'I thought Jem was counting his chickens'?
What does Scout mean when she says, 'I thought Jem was counting his chickens'?
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Study Notes
Key Characters and Concepts
- Atticus Finch observes that Mr. Cunningham has "blind spots," suggesting he selectively acknowledges realities based on personal biases.
- Dolphus Raymond, a white man who associates with the black community, pretends to be drunk; this façade protects him from societal judgments regarding his choices.
- The Ewell family resides in squalid conditions, living in a pigsty, indicating their poverty and disregard for hygiene.
Courtroom Atmosphere and Dynamics
- The atmosphere prior to the trial is described as loud, anxious, and unsettled, reflecting the high tensions surrounding the case.
- The division between blacks and whites in the courtroom reflects deep-seated racial segregation, which is still prevalent during this time.
- Children navigate the courtroom with the help of Sykes, finding seats in the balcony designated for black spectators, symbolizing their alignment with marginalized communities.
Ewell Family Insights
- The Ewell children, being biracial, struggle to fit into societal norms, further complicating their identity and acceptance.
- Bob Ewell's testimony claims he heard screams, reflecting the family's perspective on the incident while suggesting their inability to provide credible evidence.
Legal Proceedings and Observations
- Atticus Finch's questioning about whether a doctor was called is crucial; it emphasizes the need for medical verification of injuries related to the alleged assault.
- Mayella Ewell, one of the key witnesses, exhibits marks on her neck, hinting at possible violence, which sets the stage for questioning her credibility and the circumstances of the incident.
Important Themes and Realizations
- Atticus's approach to Ewell writing his name reveals insights into handedness, implying that left-handed individuals would naturally strike with their left hand, contributing to character assessments.
- Jem’s realization when he remarks, "We've got him," indicates a growing understanding of evidence and left-handedness, suggesting he connects the dots regarding the suspect's actions.
- Scout's comment about Jem counting his chickens reflects naivety and premature optimism about the trial's outcome, highlighting themes of innocence and expectation.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your understanding of chapters 16 and 17 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird.' This quiz covers key themes and characters, including Atticus Finch and the social dynamics before the trial. Review your comprehension with these flashcards and dive deeper into the narrative's complexities.
