To Kill a Mockingbird Chapters 15-16 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What happens in Chapter 15?

Chapter 15 involves events surrounding a mob that comes to confront Atticus over Tom Robinson's impending trial.

Who goes to talk to Atticus?

Mr. Heck Tate

What did Scout say were the only two reasons Maycomb grown men stood outside in the front yard?

Death and politics

When Atticus came back inside, what did Jem think the men were there for?

To attack Atticus because he thought they were a gang Signup and view all the answers

Why has a group of men come to talk to Atticus?

The men are concerned about what might happen when Tom Robinson is moved back into the Maycomb jail. Signup and view all the answers

From whom to whom is this quote spoken, what is happening in this scene and why is it significant: '...in favor of Southern womanhood as much as anybody, but not for preserving polite fiction at the expense of human life'?

From Atticus to Aunt Alexandra; this is significant as it reflects Atticus's moral stance against racial injustice. Signup and view all the answers

Later that night, what was Atticus taking with him?

He was carrying a long electrical extension cord and at the end was a light bulb. Signup and view all the answers

What did Scout say was unusual about Atticus that night?

Atticus was taking the car, which he never does. Signup and view all the answers

What did Scout say about if one individual went for a walk?

That if one went for a walk with no definite purpose in mind, it was correct to believe that one's mind was incapable of a definite purpose. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jem and Scout get Dill's attention when they snuck out of the house?

They leaped over the driveway wall, cut through Miss Rachel's side yard, and Jem whistled bob-white. Signup and view all the answers

Where did the children find Atticus?

The Maycomb Tribune Office (the county jail) Signup and view all the answers

Why didn't Jem want Scout to go to her father?

He understood the danger Atticus was facing. Signup and view all the answers

What happens while the children are waiting for Atticus?

A mob comes to lynch Mr. Robinson and they are willing to hurt Atticus to do it. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Scout run to Atticus, and why does Jem try to stop her?

Scout thinks that they are the same men from earlier; Jem doesn't want Scout to go because he understands the dangers. Signup and view all the answers

When Atticus wants the children to go home, why does Jem refuse to take them?

Because he knows that once they leave, Atticus will be in danger. Signup and view all the answers

How does Scout unintentionally help when she realizes that Mr. Cunningham is there?

Scout asks Mr. Cunningham to deliver greetings to his son, which reminds him of his role as a father. Signup and view all the answers

At the end of the chapter, who do we hear from for the first time?

We hear from Tom Robinson for the first time. Signup and view all the answers

What did Scout think Atticus was doing to Jem while she and Dill were walking slower behind?

She thought Atticus was giving Jem hell for not going home, but she was wrong. Signup and view all the answers

What happened with Atticus and Jem after they passed the streetlight?

Atticus reached over and massaged Jem's hair, which was 'his one gesture of affection.' Signup and view all the answers

What do we learn about Aunt Alexandra's concerns at the beginning of Chapter 16?

She remarks that Atticus shouldn't talk about Negroes in front of Calpurnia because blacks gossip. Signup and view all the answers

How does Atticus put Aunt Alexandra in her place?

Atticus challenges her views regarding their interactions with the community. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 15 Key Points

Mr. Heck Tate visits Atticus to discuss concerns regarding the potential violence surrounding Tom Robinson's impending transfer to jail.
In Maycomb, men gather outside for only two reasons: death and politics, highlighting the town's social dynamics.
Jem suspects the men outside intend to attack Atticus, perceiving them as a gang.
Atticus takes an electrical extension cord and a light bulb, signifying preparation for an uncertain situation later that night.
Atticus typically walks everywhere for exercise, making his decision to take the car unusual and indicative of the seriousness of the situation.

Children’s Actions and Confrontation

Jem and Scout sneak out to find Dill, demonstrating their adventurous spirit and disregard for danger.
The children discover Atticus at the Maycomb Tribune Office, where he is guarding Tom Robinson against a mob.
A mob arrives intent on lynching Tom Robinson, posing a threat to Atticus, illustrating the racial tensions in the South.
Scout mistakenly assumes the mob consists of familiar men, showcasing her innocence, while Jem is aware of the danger and tries to protect her.

Scout's Impact

During the confrontation, Scout recognizes Mr. Cunningham in the mob and innocently engages him about his son, reminding him of his role as a father.
This interaction humanizes the situation for Mr. Cunningham, leading him to reconsider his actions and ultimately disband the mob, showcasing the power of innocence and empathy.

Key Developments

This chapter marks the first time Tom Robinson is mentioned directly, foreshadowing his significance in the narrative.
After the tense events, Scout misinterprets Atticus's behavior towards Jem as parental reprimand, highlighting her naivety.

Chapter 16 Overview

Aunt Alexandra displays a preoccupation with social appearances, criticizing Atticus's discussions about race in front of Calpurnia, revealing class and racial prejudices.
Atticus challenges Aunt Alexandra's concerns, emphasizing the importance of integrity and truth over societal expectations.

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Description

Test your knowledge of chapters 15 and 16 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird' with these flashcards. They cover key characters and events, offering a chance to reinforce your understanding of the text. Perfect for students looking to prepare for discussions or exams.