To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel by Harper Lee, first published in 1960.
It tells the story of Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, who defends Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman.
The novel explores the themes of racism, prejudice, and the importance of standing up for what is right. It also highlights the injustice that can be done to the falsely accused.
Tom Robinson is a hardworking and respected man who is falsely accused of raping Mayella Ewell, a white woman. Despite the lack of evidence against him, Tom is found guilty by an all-white jury and sentenced to death.
The trial of Tom Robinson is a clear example of the injustice that can be done to the falsely accused. Tom is denied a fair trial because of the racism and prejudice of the people in Maycomb. He is also denied the presumption of innocence, which is a fundamental principle of a fair justice system.
The presumption of innocence means that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is an important principle because it protects people from being punished for crimes they did not commit.
In the case of Tom Robinson, the presumption of innocence was not upheld. He was found guilty based on the testimony of Mayella Ewell. She was indeed raped, but not by Tom. The culprit was her own father, Bob. It is Bob who leads the accusations against Tom, in order to take the focus away from him.
The hand of justice deals no good cards to Tom Robinson. His family also suffer greatly as a result of his incarceration, and we learn that his wife, Helen, is unable to find work as a result of tbe rape accusations against her husband. She is thrown into poverty, struggling to look after their three children. The church reverend takes up a collection to help support the family. This shows compassion and understanding on the part of the church community for the suffering of family members. It is good that Lee acknowledges the wider impact of a family member being accused of a crime.
Sadly, things do not improve for Tom Robinson and his family.
He is killed as he escapes custody. Despite Atticus’ belief that they have a chance with the appeal, Tom loses hope. He makes a bid for freedom, and is shot by prison guards.
The case of Tom Robinson is a reminder of the importance of the presumption of innocence.
The Vigilante Actions of the Community Against Atticus Finch
Atticus Finch is a man of principle who is willing to stand up for what he believes in, even when it is unpopular.
When he agrees to defend Tom Robinson, he knows that he will face the wrath of the community.
The people of Maycomb are mostly white and racist. They believe that Tom Robinson is guilty, and they are angry that Atticus is defending him. They threaten Atticus and his family, and they try to intimidate him into dropping the case.
Atticus Finch refuses to be intimidated. He continues to defend Tom Robinson, even though he knows that it is a difficult case. He believes that it is his duty to defend the innocent.
He encourages his children to understand the principles of a fair and just society. He informs them that it is “a sin to kill a mockingbird’, referring to the fact that the birds are innocent and harmless.
The vigilante actions of the community against Atticus Finch are a reminder of the dangers of mob mentality. When people are afraid or angry, they can be easily swayed to do things that are wrong.
It’s important to stand up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular.
Atticus Finch as a Symbol of Hope
Atticus Finch is a symbol of hope in a world that is often unjust. He is a man who is willing to stand up for what he believes in, even when it is difficult. He is a reminder that there is still good in the world, even in the face of evil.
Atticus Finch is a complex and nuanced character. He is not perfect, but he is always trying to do the right thing. He is a man of integrity and compassion, and he is a role model for us all.
To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful novel that raises important questions about justice, racism, and the human condition.
It’s a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
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