To Kill a Mockingbird

Questions and Answers

What are Alexandra's reasons for disagreeing with Atticus about the threat from Ewell?

Alexandra believes that the Ewells are the kind of people who would do anything to pay off a grudge and that Ewell's revenge will likely be sneaky or unexpected.

According to Atticus, what is optimistic about Tom's case?

Atticus believes that once the higher court reviews the case, Tom has a good chance of going free or at least receiving a new trial.

If Tom is found guilty on appeal, what will his punishment be? Why?

If found guilty, Tom will be sentenced to death because rape is a capital offense in Alabama.

What are Jem's major points about the legal system, and how does Atticus address them?

Jem points out that it's wrong for someone to be sentenced to death based on circumstantial evidence. Atticus responds that there should be eyewitnesses before a death penalty is applied, and he suggests changing the law to allow only judges to decide such penalties. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus mean when he says, '...it's all adding up and one of these days we're going to pay the bill for it'?

Atticus means that the injustices committed by white people against black people will eventually lead to consequences for white society. Signup and view all the answers

According to Atticus, what are three reasons why many Maycomb citizens do not want to serve on a jury?

Many citizens fear retribution, do not want to declare their opinions publicly, and feel they cannot leave their businesses unattended. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus tell Jem about one of the jurors who held out for a long time?

Atticus mentions that the juror was from the Cunningham clan, which is surprising because they were among the angry mob during the attempted lynching. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout declare she will do after learning about the Cunningham juror?

Scout plans to invite Walter Cunningham home for dinner and possibly to stay over. Signup and view all the answers

What physical signs indicate that Jem is growing up?

Jem is growing taller, his body is slimmer, and he has begun to grow hair on his chest and under his arms. Signup and view all the answers

What upset Scout more than anything else after Aunt Alexandra's cruel remark?

Scout was most upset that Aunt Alexandra had called Walter Cunningham 'trash.' Signup and view all the answers

How does Jem describe the social hierarchy in Maycomb?

Jem describes four kinds of people: ordinary folks, the Cunninghams, the Ewells, and the Negroes, illustrating a clear social division. Signup and view all the answers

How does Jem define 'background' in relation to the Cunninghams?

Jem defines 'background' as related to the ability to read and write, believing that the Finches are different from the Cunninghams because they have a longer history of education. Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion does Jem draw about Boo Radley by the end of the chapter?

Jem concludes that Boo Radley stays in his house because he wants to remain inside, reflecting his frustration with people who cannot get along. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Atticus and Ewell's Threat

Atticus dismisses Ewell's threat, believing Ewell's credibility eroded during the trial.
He prefers Ewell directing his anger at him rather than at Mayella or Ewell's children.
Alexandra warns that Ewells act out of spite; Atticus remains unconcerned about physical retaliation.

Tom Robinson's Appeal

Atticus is hopeful about Tom Robinson's appeal, indicating the higher court might grant a new trial.
If found guilty upon appeal, Tom faces a death penalty due to Alabama's laws categorizing rape as a capital offense.

Issues with the Legal System

Jem acknowledges the injustice of Tom's potential death penalty but struggles to articulate his concerns.
Atticus expresses unease regarding capital punishment based solely on circumstantial evidence, insisting on the need for eyewitness testimony.
Jem suggests eliminating juries, while Atticus advocates for legal reform to empower judges in capital cases.

Racial Injustice and Accountability

Atticus warns that white citizens will eventually have to confront the racial injustices they perpetuate, suggesting a moral reckoning is inevitable.

Civic Duty and Jury Service

Atticus explains three reasons why Maycomb citizens avoid jury duty: lack of interest, fear of retribution, and discomfort with decision-making.
He illustrates his point using Mr. Link Deas, who might refuse jury service to avoid harming business relationships.

Jury Dynamics

One juror's lengthy deliberation hints at a potential shift in societal attitudes; he was a respected Cunningham, suggesting some jurors may secretly oppose the verdict.

Class Prejudice

Scout's desire to befriend Walter Cunningham is met with Aunt Alexandra's prejudice, labeling the Cunninghams as "trash."
Scout's emotional response centers around Aunt Alexandra's derogatory remark about Walter, illuminating her struggle with class discrimination.

Jem outlines the social stratification in Maycomb, categorizing people based on their status and neighborhood.
He emphasizes that different groups harbor mutual disdain, indicating entrenched social divisions.

Background and Class Perception

Jem associates "background" with a family's literacy and educational history, wrongly implying it defines social worth.
Scout counters that intelligence varies independently of socio-economic background, promoting an egalitarian view that all people are fundamentally equal.

Boo Radley's Isolation

Jem concludes that Boo Radley isolates himself due to the harsh treatment people exert on each other.
His observations reflect a growing disillusionment with societal injustices, leading him to empathize with Boo's choice to remain reclusive.

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Description

This quiz focuses on Chapter 23 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird', exploring key themes and character interactions. The flashcards cover significant moments, including Atticus's views on Ewell's threats and the contrasting perspectives of other characters. Test your recall and understanding of this pivotal chapter.

To Kill a Mockingbird - Chapter 23