To Kill a Mockingbird: Tom Robinson's Testimony

Tom Robinson, a black man, describes his encounters with Mayella Ewell, a white woman. He claims he helped her with chores around her house but never had any romantic or inappropriate relationship with her.

When questioned about fleeing the Ewell house, Tom explains he ran away because he feared Mayella’s father, Bob Ewell, would find out about his interaction with Mayella and accuse him of something inappropriate.

Tom asserts that he always helped Mayella without receiving any compensation because he genuinely felt sympathy for her and her family’s dire situation.

Tom’s admission of feeling sorry for Mayella is significant because it creates a contrast with the accusations against him, suggesting a different explanation for his actions.

Mr. Gilmer, the prosecutor, treats Tom with disrespect and hostility during cross-examination. He uses harsh language and leading questions to try and discredit Tom’s testimony.

While observing the trial, Dolphus Raymond advises Scout and Dill that many people in Maycomb choose to believe in prejudice and unfairness rather than acknowledge the truth and complexities of the situation.

Scout learns from Dolphus Raymond that even though the people in Maycomb are aware of the injustice happening, they prefer to maintain the existing social norms and pretend that everything is fine.

In his closing statement, Atticus appeals to the jury’s sense of justice and fairness. He argues that the case is simple and that racial prejudice shouldn't influence their verdict.

Atticus calls the case “black and white” because he believes the truth is clear – Tom is innocent and the evidence points to Mayella’s false accusation.

Dill is disgusted and deeply upset by Mr. Gilmer's cruel questioning of Tom. He can’t comprehend such injustice and feels a strong sense of sympathy for Tom.

Mayella, when she takes the stand, displays a nervous and uncomfortable demeanor. She appears anxious and shifty throughout her testimony.

Mayella claims that Tom Robinson assaulted and attempted to rape her, even though there is no physical evidence to support her story.

Atticus approaches Mayella with respect and courtesy, addressing her formally as “ma’am” even though he believes she is lying.

During questioning, Mayella reveals that she essentially runs her family’s house and cares for her siblings, suggesting she is burdened with significant responsibility.

Mayella is seemingly put off by Atticus’s polite conduct, as if his respectful behavior highlights her own desperation and social position.

Atticus points out that Mayella’s injuries, such as her bruised neck, are more consistent with a right-handed perpetrator, not a left-handed person like Tom.

Mayella’s hesitant and evasive answers suggest she is not being truthful, which contradicts her confident assertions about the alleged assault.

The courtroom, including the jury, seems to be swayed by Mayella’s emotional testimony even though the evidence supports Tom’s innocence.

Mayella becomes upset and refuses to answer certain questions because she is exposed as a liar, revealing the weakness of her accusations.

Mayella’s testimony brings to light several crucial themes of the book: prejudice, social inequality, and the struggle for justice in a society deeply divided by race and class.