To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 17 Quiz & Flashcards

Study Notes

Chapter 16

The trial of Tom Robinson commences, attracting a large crowd from across the county, including various local figures.
A significant character, Mr. Dolphus Raymond, is introduced; he lives near the county line and has mixed-race children, causing him to be viewed as an eccentric.
Jem, Scout, and Dill manage to enter the courthouse, despite attempting to avoid detection by Atticus, and find themselves in the balcony designated for Black attendees.

Chapter 17

The prosecutor, Mr. Gilmer, begins questioning Heck Tate, who describes how Bob Ewell informed him of an alleged rape involving his daughter, Mayella.
Atticus's cross-examination reveals critical inconsistencies, such as the absence of medical evidence and the bruises on Mayella's face being predominantly on the right side.
Bob Ewell, described as rude and poorly living, testifies next, claiming to have witnessed Tom raping Mayella while also revealing his left-handedness, suggesting he could have been the instigator of Mayella's injuries.

Chapter 18

Mayella Ewell testifies, revealing her life in a dysfunctional family with numerous siblings, a drunken father, and pervasive loneliness.
During cross-examination, she struggles to answer Atticus's probing questions about the events, culminating in an emotional breakdown.
The prosecution rests, and Atticus calls Tom Robinson as the single defense witness.

Chapter 19

Tom Robinson recounts his relationship with Mayella, emphasizing that he felt pity for her rather than any malice.
His testimony describes an encounter where Mayella advances on him and later, is confronted by her father.
Dill's emotional reaction to the cross-examination underscores the courtroom's racial tensions when Tom inadvertently expresses sympathy for Mayella.

Chapter 20

Mr. Dolphus Raymond explains to Scout and Dill his choice to feign drunkenness as a defense mechanism against societal criticism for his relationships with Black people.
In his closing statement, Atticus refutes the flimsy evidence presented by the prosecution and urges the jury to deliver justice, arguing that societal racism should not influence their decision.

Chapter 21

Atticus receives a note about his children's presence in the courtroom, and although he allows them to stay, he prepares them for the likely unfavorable verdict.
The jury's deliberation stretches late into the night, ending with a guilty verdict that shocks Jem and Scout.
The courtroom's Black attendees show respect for Atticus's efforts despite the unjust outcome.

Chapter 22

In the wake of the verdict, the Black community supports the Finch family by bringing them food, showcasing their gratitude towards Atticus's defense of Tom.
Jem expresses disillusionment with Maycomb's residents, reflecting on the trial's revelation of racial prejudice and moral failures.
Bob Ewell threatens Atticus, signaling tension in the aftermath of the trial.

Chapter 23

Bob Ewell's threats reveal the volatile atmosphere post-trial, while Tom Robinson's imprisonment raises concerns about his fate amidst racial injustice.
Atticus explains to Jem the structural racism inherent in the justice system in Alabama, pointing out the rarity of favorable jury decisions for Black defendants.
Discussions among the siblings highlight the complexities of social class and prejudice within their community.

Chapter 24

During a tea hosted by Aunt Alexandra, discussions about the plight of an African tribe reveal hypocrisy as the women also gossip about the behavior of their own Black servants.
Atticus breaks the somber news of Tom Robinson's death, having been shot while attempting to escape prison, marking a pivotal moment of loss and injustice in the narrative.

Chapter 25

The chapter opens with Scout reflecting on her brother Jem's evolving behavior and maturity.
News of Tom’s death leads to a brief societal uproar, framed by racial prejudices that deem his escape attempt as typical for a Black man.
Mr. Underwood’s editorial condemning Tom's death highlights the tragic loss of an innocent life, while Bob Ewell's harsh words indicate his continued animosity. Summer concludes with Dill's departure.

Description

Explore key summaries and events from chapters 16 to 25 of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. This quiz includes important character insights and courtroom dynamics that shape the narrative. Perfect for students seeking to reinforce their understanding of this classic novel.