To Kill a Mockingbird: Tom Robinson's Verdict

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Questions and Answers

What was the purpose of Calpurnia's visit to Judge Taylor?

To deliver a note from Atticus's sister. (correct)

To ask for permission to enter the courtroom.

To inform the Judge about the trial proceedings.

To seek a favor for her children.

How did Atticus initially react when he learned where Jem and Scout were?

He insisted they leave immediately.

He was very angry with them.

He was unaware of their location.

He was relieved that they were safe. (correct)

What did Jem plead with Atticus to do?

To take them home immediately.

To allow them to enter the trial.

To hear the jury's discussions.

To let them see the verdict. (correct)

What was Calpurnia's attitude towards Jem and Scout attending the trial?

She was upset and disapproved of their attendance. Signup and view all the answers

What time did Mr. Underwood say Jem and Scout had been in the colored balcony?

1:18 PM Signup and view all the answers

What was Jem's reaction when Calpurnia scolded him?

He laughed and grinned. Signup and view all the answers

How did Calpurnia respond to the children's absence?

She threatened Jem with a punishment. Signup and view all the answers

What did Jem believe about the jury's decision based on the evidence presented?

They had a good chance of winning the case. Signup and view all the answers

How did Reverend Sykes respond to Jem's discussion about legal terms?

He found the conversation inappropriate for Scout. Signup and view all the answers

What was the general atmosphere in the courtroom as described in the text?

It was somber and silent, akin to stillness in a church. Signup and view all the answers

What effect did the atmosphere in the courtroom have on the characters present?

It created a sense of tension and gloom. Signup and view all the answers

What was Atticus's demeanor following the jury's verdict?

He remained calm and collected. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jem react to the verdict of the jury?

He expressed disbelief and anger. Signup and view all the answers

What significant action did Reverend Sykes take during the courtroom scene?

He reminded everyone to stand for Atticus. Signup and view all the answers

What was the first thing Atticus did after the verdict was announced?

He packed his belongings quietly. Signup and view all the answers

What emotion did Jem struggle with after leaving the courtroom?

Disillusionment regarding justice. Signup and view all the answers

What did Atticus imply about the nature of the justice system?

It can sometimes be flawed and biased. Signup and view all the answers

What was Aunt Alexandra's reaction to the situation surrounding Tom Robinson?

She was anxious and worried about Atticus. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'good night' imply in the emotional context of the scene?

It reflects Atticus's acceptance of the situation. Signup and view all the answers

How did the courtroom scene contrast with Atticus's character traits?

He maintained his usual composed and dignified demeanor. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Tom Robinson's Trial Verdict

Atticus Finch, Tom Robinson's lawyer, is informed that his children are missing and are found in the colored balcony of the courtroom.
Atticus sends Jem and Scout home after they listen to the entire trial despite Calpurnia's disapproval.
Jem and Scout return to the courthouse with Reverend Sykes, finding the jury box empty and Tom Robinson gone.
The jury is in deliberation for about 30 minutes.
Jem believes the jury will acquit Tom Robinson based on the evidence presented.
Reverend Sykes informs Jem that he has never seen a jury favor a colored man over a white man.
Jem becomes frustrated with the possibility of Tom Robinson's conviction.
The courtroom is extremely quiet with the only sound being occasional cries of babies.
The time passes slowly, indicated by the old courthouse clock striking the hours.
Jem and Scout wait for the verdict which takes hours, a significant wait for children.
Atticus walks around the courtroom, seeming calm, while the tension rises.
The jury returns and the foreman hands a piece of paper to Mr. Heck Tate who then gives it to the clerk and finally to the judge.
The jury's verdict is "Guilty."
Jem reacts to the verdict with shock, realizing that Tom has been convicted.
Atticus whispers to Tom Robinson before leaving the courtroom.
The black community stands up as Atticus leaves showing their empathy and support: "Your father's passin'" .

Reaction to the Verdict

Jem is deeply upset by the verdict and cries on the way home.
Atticus attempts to remain stoic and emphasizes the need for them to cope with the injustice.
Aunt Alexandra is concerned by the impact of the trial on the children, especially Jem.
Atticus assures his children that the trial is not over yet and an appeal will be filed.
Tom Robinson's father sends a chicken to Atticus, showing appreciation for his defense.
The kitchen table is filled with gifts from the black community, expressing their gratitude and support for Atticus.
Atticus expresses his appreciation and asks them never to do this again as times are hard.

Miss Maudie's Perspective

Miss Maudie serves Jem, Dill, and Scout cake, implicitly acknowledging that nothing has changed for her.
Miss Maudie explains that some men are meant to do difficult jobs, and Atticus is one of them.
Miss Maudie reassures Jem that the situation is not as bad as it seems, and they are making progress.
Miss Maudie highlights the importance of Judge Taylor's decision to appoint Atticus as Tom Robinson's lawyer.
She emphasizes that Atticus's defense put up a strong fight and bought time, even if they did not win.

Dill's aspirations

Dill aspires to become a clown when he grows up.
He believes that clowns are meant to laugh at others, referencing the townspeople as deserving of ridicule.
He uses the word "oughta" to indicate a belief that these individuals should be mocked.
Jem contradicts him by saying that clowns are, in fact, sad.

Town Reactions

The townspeople are shown behaving strangely, waving excitedly.
Dill's comment about them "ridin' broomsticks" suggests a sense of chaos and irrationality.
Jem recognizes that the town's reactions are unusual and unsettling.

Mr. Avery's Illness

Mr. Avery sneezes violently, causing a disturbance and highlighting the potential danger.
His red face suggests a physical reaction to the events unfolding.

Mr. Ewell's Threat

Mr. Bob Ewell is revealed to be the source of the tension.
He insulted Atticus publicly by spitting on him.
Mr. Ewell has threatened to “get” Atticus.
This suggests a vengeful and dangerous intent.

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Description

Explore the pivotal courtroom scene in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' where the fate of Tom Robinson hangs in the balance. Follow Jem and Scout as they experience the tension of the trial and the heavy silence of the courtroom. This quiz examines the themes of justice, race, and childhood innocence during this critical moment.