The Trial

One of the most defining scenes of the story and one of the most important pieces ever written, the trial encapsulates the divide in Maycomb county between the blacks and white, but also between the forward thinkers and the racists.

The trail scene begins by describing the courthouse set up and the reasons why Atticus took the case, he was forced.  This idea confuses Scout, as she didn't know that her father had been forced to accept the case.  This also confuses Maycomb county citizens, as they can't understand why Atticus would actually defend Tom Robinson.

The reason why this confuses Maycomb county so much is clearly highlighted in the next passages, where it shows the segregation of the courthouse, where the white community sat below but the black community were sitting in the balcony.

After Heck Tate testifies, Bob Ewell takes the stand.  Before we hear Bob Ewell's testimony, we get a clear description of the Ewell's family life and living circumstances.  Why do you think the Ewell's were painted this way before they gave their testimony?  What is Lee trying to tell us?

Throughout Bob Ewell's testimony, he is extremely defensive and tries very hard to ensure that the community is behind him.  While reading the section below think carefully about how he's presented through this speech (what words he uses) and the way he reacts to both Atticus and Judge Taylor.

After Bob Ewell's testimony, his daughter, Mayella testifies.  She is presented in a similar manner to her father, but where her father's actions are deliberate to illicit a specific response, Mayella's are quite the opposite, saying what she's been told to say.

Think about the words she uses to portray her emotions and the way she reacts to Atticus' question to show you that she's different to her family, but still apart of her family.  Also, look at the way Atticus' demeanour changes throughout his questioning, what does that tell you about him and Mayella?  (NOTE: the clip is slightly different to the text, but still gives a valuable insight into how Mayella feels)

After Mayella's testimony, there is a short break, but the people of Maycomb stay still, why?

The final person to testify in the trial is Tom Robinson himself.  When reading his testimony below, think about the words he's using (suh) etc. and what that tells us about him.  Is he respectful?  Does his words tell us he's capable of this crime?

Finally, the trial closes with Atticus' speech.  It's one of the most powerful ever written.  Why is it so powerful?

After the trial is over, and Tom Robinson is found guilty, the town is stunned.  Everybody agrees and disagrees with the verdict.  The black community, however, still show their respect to Atticus, even though he lost.  Why do you think the black community is so grateful to Atticus, even though he lost?