Friday, July 17, 2009

What quote depicts Atticus standing up for Tom Robinson in the courtroom?

There are numerous quotes throughout the courtroom scenes in Chapters 17 through 20 that depict Atticus standing up for Tom Robinson. One of the most memorable, significant scenes throughout the trial takes place in Chapter 20 when Atticus gives his closing remarks. Atticus begins by stating that this case is as simple as black and white. He mentions that the Ewells' testimonies contradict one another, and elaborates on Mayella's motivation to accuse Tom Robinson of raping her. Atticus explains the guilt she felt by breaking the unwritten "code" of society, and suggests that Bob Ewell assaulted his own daughter after witnessing her actions. He continues by discussing the inaccuracy and ignorance associated with the "evil assumption" that all black men are immoral beings. He urges the jury members to look beyond their prejudiced views and judge Tom's case based solely on the evidence provided. Atticus says,



"Gentlemen, a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury. A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision, and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty." (Lee 275)



Atticus is pleading that the jury put aside their racist ideologies and judge Tom Robinson with equality. Atticus has already defended Tom's character, pointed out the Ewells' lies, and is now calling for justice. Unfortunately, the prejudiced jury members wrongly convict Tom Robinson. Tom Robinson becomes yet another victim of racial injustice in Maycomb, Alabama.

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