To Kill a Mockingbird

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Questions and Answers

What are the reasons that Alexandra disagrees with Atticus about the threat from Ewell?

Alexandra believes that the Ewells will seek revenge and that Ewell's actions are unpredictable.

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 receiving a new trial.

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

Tom's punishment will be death because rape is a capital offense in Alabama.

Briefly summarize Jem and Atticus's discussion about the problems with the legal system.

Jem believes the punishment is unfair, suggesting that rape shouldn't be a capital offense. Atticus argues there should be eyewitnesses before death sentences are given and stresses changing the law to give judges the power in capital cases. Signup and view all the answers

When Atticus says, 'one of these days we're going to pay the bill for it,' what does he mean?

Atticus means that the white population will eventually have to confront the injustices they have committed against black people. 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?

They are not interested, fear retribution, or have business obligations. Signup and view all the answers

What does Atticus reveal about one of the jurors during the trial?

One juror held out for a long time and advocated for acquittal, surprising Atticus, as he belonged to the Cunningham clan. Signup and view all the answers

What does Scout declare she will do regarding Walter Cunningham when school starts?

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

What physical signs indicate that Jem is growing up?

Jem shows Scout hair growth on his chest and under his arms. Signup and view all the answers

What upset Scout more than anything else according to Aunt Alexandra's remarks?

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

How does Jem describe the social hierarchy in Maycomb?

Jem describes four types of people: ordinary folks, Cunninghams, Ewells, and Negroes, emphasizing their mutual disdain. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jem mean by 'background' and how does Scout respond to his theory?

Jem believes 'background' relates to family's literacy, while Scout argues that everyone must learn and believes people are fundamentally the same. Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion does Jem draw about Boo Radley?

Jem concludes that Boo Radley stays in his house because he chooses to remain inside, frustrated with people's intolerance. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Atticus and the Ewell Threat

Atticus remains unconcerned about Bob Ewell's threat, believing Ewell's credibility has been irreparably damaged.
He prefers Ewell directing his anger at him rather than at innocents like Mayella or her siblings.
Alexandra warns that the Ewells may act furtively, suggesting a sneaky form of revenge.

Tom Robinson's Case

Atticus expresses optimism about Tom Robinson's chances for a new trial or acquittal after an appeal.
If convicted, Tom faces a death penalty due to the capital nature of the rape charge in Alabama, reflecting the racial biases inherent in the trial process.

Legal System Issues

Jem struggles to articulate the flaws in Tom's punishment but believes that capital offenses should be reconsidered.
Atticus critiques the reliance on circumstantial evidence for death sentences, advocating for eyewitness testimony.
They discuss the systemic issues with jury verdicts, with Jem suggesting eliminating juries while Atticus proposes that judges should decide penalties in capital cases.

Atticus warns that systemic injustices against Black individuals will eventually lead to consequences for the white community.
He highlights the reluctance of Maycomb citizens to serve on juries due to fear of retribution or personal biases.

Juror Dynamics

A juror from the Cunningham family signified a potential shift in communal attitudes by holding out for acquittal.
Atticus notes that earning the respect of a Cunningham can garner loyalty, indicating shifting perceptions.

Class and Prejudice

Scout expresses her intention to invite Walter Cunningham over, but Aunt Alexandra's prejudice against lower-class families is evident.
Aunt Alexandra labels Walter Cunningham as "trash," demonstrating her contempt for those she deems socially inferior.

Jem's Growth and Understanding

Jem exhibits physical signs of maturity, such as developing body hair, highlighting the transition into adolescence.
Scout feels hurt by Aunt Alexandra's harsh words toward Walter Cunningham, indicating her sensitivity to injustice.

Jem outlines a social hierarchy consisting of four groups: ordinary folks, Cunninghams, Ewells, and Black individuals.
This structure reflects the entrenched racism and classism within Maycomb's community.

Background and Worth

Jem associates "background" with educational opportunities, implying the Finch family's superiority over the Cunninghams.
Scout counters this notion by advocating for the intrinsic equality of all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status or education.

Boo Radley's Isolation

Frustrated by societal prejudices, Jem perceives Boo Radley’s continued seclusion as a desire to avoid the cruelty of people.
This insight reflects Jem's growing awareness of the complexity of human behavior and the consequences of social dynamics.

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Description

Explore key concepts and vocabulary from Chapter 23 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. This quiz focuses on Atticus Finch's perspective on Ewell's threats and the differing views of Alexandra. Test your understanding and recall important details from this pivotal chapter.

To Kill a Mockingbird - Chapter 23