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Questions and Answers
Who is the first person to take the stand? Briefly summarize his testimony.
Mr. Heck Tate, the sheriff, testifies that he found Ewell's daughter badly beaten and that she told him Tom Robinson had raped and beaten her.
What does Atticus spend much of his time asking Mr. Tate?
Atticus spends much of his time asking Mr. Tate which side of the girl's face was beaten.
To what animal does Scout compare Mr. Ewell? How is the comparison fitting?
Scout compares Mr. Ewell to a rooster, describing him as a 'little bantam cock of a man.' The comparison is fitting because he struts to the stand and speaks loudly and obnoxiously.
Where do the Ewells live, and what does this say about their social position in Maycomb County?
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How does Mr. Ewell act when he first takes the stand, and how does Judge Taylor react to him?
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What is Mr. Ewell's version of what happened?
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Why does Atticus want Ewell to write his name?
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What are Scout's doubts regarding the evidence Atticus presents?
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Study Notes
Testimony of Mr. Heck Tate
- Mr. Heck Tate, the sheriff, is the first witness during the trial.
- He arrived at the Ewell home after Mr. Ewell reported an incident, discovering Mayella Ewell severely beaten.
- Mayella accused Tom Robinson of raping and beating her, leading to Robinson's arrest based on her identification.
Atticus's Focus on Mayella's Injuries
- Atticus Finch questions Mr. Tate about which side of Mayella's face was injured.
- Mr. Tate confirms that the right side of her face was damaged, indicating specific details about her injuries.
Comparison of Mr. Ewell to a Rooster
- Scout describes Mr. Ewell as a "little bantam cock of a man," highlighting his strutting demeanor and physical traits.
- Ewell’s red complexion and pointed nose contribute to the fitting comparison as he behaves obnoxiously like a rooster.
Social Standing of the Ewells
- The Ewell family lives behind the town dump, symbolizing their low socio-economic status.
- They occupy the lowest tier among the white population in Maycomb County, illustrating their social isolation.
Mr. Ewell's Conduct in Court
- Mr. Ewell exhibits crude and disrespectful behavior while on the stand, using terms like "cap'n" and responding sarcastically.
- Judge Taylor quickly interrupts his misconduct, asserting that the court will maintain decorum and respect.
Mr. Ewell's Account of Events
- Ewell claims he heard Mayella's screams and saw Tom Robinson assaulting her through the window.
- After witnessing the alleged crime, he stated that Robinson fled the scene, prompting Ewell to fetch the sheriff.
Atticus's Strategy with Ewell's Writing
- Atticus aims to reveal that Mr. Ewell is left-handed, a significant detail since the bruises were found on Mayella’s right side.
- Showing Ewell's left-handedness could indicate he was the likely perpetrator of the violence against Mayella.
Skepticism from Scout and Jem's Perspective
- Scout expresses doubt about the implication that Ewell's left-handedness proves his guilt, acknowledging the lack of conclusive evidence.
- Jem believes Atticus has effectively strengthened the case against Ewell, interpreting the left-handed detail as pivotal to their argument.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Explore Chapter 17 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird' with these flashcards. Dive into the testimony of Mr. Heck Tate and the events surrounding Tom Robinson's arrest. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of key moments and characters from this pivotal chapter.
