In this scene, starting on page 239, Atticus is questioning Mayella Ewell what happened to her on the night of November Twenty-First. Atticus keeps having to repeat the questions and Mayella keeps changing her answers to make it seem like Tom Robinson raped and beat her. Atticus has Tom stand up and the author describes that Tom's left arm is crippled and at least a foot shorter than his right arm. Mayella's right eye was bruised but he couldn't have possibly done it if his left arm was crippled. This relates to the theme that not all get justice under the US law. Mayella and her father picked Tom as the one who beat her because he was an easy target and winning a case against a black man would get their family enough money to live. This relates to how people in low income areas will adopt children so they get paid more by the government even if they don't care about the kids, just money.
I agree with you partially, Max. I believe that the Ewells blamed Tom Robinson for rape because he was an easy target, however, I disagree that they don't have enough money to live off of already. Bob Ewell would have enough money for his family if he hadn't spent all his money on alcohol. Even if they won the court trial, they still wouldn't have enough money to live off of as a family because Bob would eventually spend it all on alcohol anyway.
I agree with you Sonny, but I see where you are coming from Max. Tom was an easy target because of the color of his skin, back then that mattered in the court of law. But, I agree with you Sonny the Ewell family does have money Bob just spends it on alcohol. They would not be rich if he spent it more appropriately but, they would certainly get by.
“He got it caught in a cotton gin, caught it in Mr. Dolphus Raymond’s cotton gin when he was a boy… like to bled to death… tore all the muscles loose from his bones—” Page 249
During the trial, Reverend Sykes whispers to Jem and Scout and explains how Tom Robinson’s arm was injured. In the scene, Tom’s left arm is twelve inches shorter than his right, and it is not viable. Tom is accused of rape and assault when one of his arms is not functional.
In contrast to our world today, there are child labor laws to protect children. The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 ensures that work does not affect the health, safety, or educational opportunities of children under the age of 18. There is a set minimum wage and guidelines for maximum hours worked and minimum age. These laws are enforced in order to protect our youth.
This website provides the children labor laws and restrictions in the United States today. http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/youthlabor/
Themes that relate to this scene are the damage done by racism and justice under the law in the United States. Tom’s arm was damaged as a young boy working in the cotton gin. African American boys were forced to work at young ages in order to make money for the family to survive. Due to racism, blacks were not paid nearly enough for their work, so children in the family had to work, too. If there was no racism, Tom would not have had to work at a young age, and wouldn’t have injured his arm. This scene shows that there is not justice for all under the law in the United States because Tom does not have a fair trial. He is being tried by many racist white people. Their opinions are biased, and Tom’s immobile left arm is not even used as evidence by the jury that he didn’t commit the crime. It is not possible for Tom to have punched Mayella’s right eye, pinned her down, or choked her if she resisted. There is not really justice for all because the subjects are being viewed and treated very differently due to their race.
I agree, the prosecutor, Mr. Gilmer, tried to twist Tom's words into making him say that his right arm is very strong and that he can still work. It is impossible for Tom to have hit Mayella's right eye with his left arm, because he has no use of it.
“Mr. Braxton Underwood, who had been sitting quietly in a chair that was reserved for the Press, soaking up testimony with his sponge of a brain, allowed his bitter eyes to rove over the colored balcony, and they met mine. He gave a snort and then looked away.” Chapter 18 Page 252.
In this scene, Scout, Jem, and Dill are sitting with Reverend Sykes and the rest of the African American crowd in the upper level of the courthouse. Braxton Underwood has been mentioned a few times in what we’ve read so far. He works for the Maycomb Tribune, the local newspaper, as a reporter. His hatred of African Americans is fairly well known by almost everybody in Maycomb county. When he makes eye contact with Scout, he takes particular notice in where exactly she is sitting. When he snorts, it is full of disgust and abhorrence toward the children, for he disapproves of the fact that they are interacting with blacks.
Today, a lot of parents monitor who their children are to hang out with. Many people have preconceived ideas about people’s personalities just based on the way they look. For example, some parents will not let their child be friends with another if it looks like they are to engage in certain behaviors or activities. Others make their children avoid interacting with certain races or ethnicities. In the story, Mr. Underwood finds it preposterous that the children are around blacks. Unfortunately today, this still happens with parents who won’t allow their children to be around various groups of people.
This scene portrays the theme of the damage done by racism. Mr. Underwood is known for being discriminatory and intolerant of African Americans. It is because of this that he is disgusted with the fact that Scout, Jem, and Dill are sitting and talking with blacks, without any second thoughts or hesitations.
I agree with you because unfortunately, especially in older generations, people still judge others based on how they look. In some cases, this may be good because your clothes and such show a lot about you, but in other cases, such as judging based on skin color, it is wrong and hurtful.
I agree with your statement that a lot of parents monitor who their children hang out with. My parents want me to hang out with responsible and trustworthy kids. Lots of my friends' parents care about grades because they don't want their kids to be poorly influenced.
I agree Kathryn. I don't understand why some parents would decide whether or not their kids should be hanging out with someone because of the way they look, but unfortunately it is a reality.
I agree with how parents monitor who their child or children hang out with, but similar to the events in the case, parents can't always monitor what their child watches on TV or on the Internet.
I agree with you Kathryn, it is disturbing that people would tell there kids not to hangout with based upon how they looked. Nowadays parents monitor who their kids hangout with based upon how well they do in school or whether or not they get into trouble, but certainly not because of physical appearance.
“‘Now,’ said Atticus, ‘Miss Mayella, you’ve testified that the defendant choked and beat you-you didn’t say that he sneaked up behind you and knocked you cold, but you turned around and there he was-’ Atticus was back behind his table, and he emphasized his words by tapping his knuckles on it. ‘-do you wish to reconsider any of your testimony?’ ‘You want me to say something that didn’t happen?’ ‘No ma’am, I want you to say something that did happen. Tell us once more please, what happened?’” Chapter 18 Page 249.
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella about what Tom had done to her. Mayella’s accusations against Tom seem to be very unlikely because Tom has a disabled arm. His left arm can practically barely function because when he was young, it got caught in a cotton gin. Even when he tries to place his arm on the bible to be sworn in to testify, it is very difficult for Tom to maneuver it. Clearly it is hard to believe that with one good arm, Tom was able to beat, restrain, and rape Mayella Ewell.
According to a study conducted by National Geographic, nearly 4.1% of people accused of a crime that would result in the death penalty, are wrongly accused. This percentage is absolutely astonishing. To think that around 4.1% of convicted people sentenced to death are being executed for crimes that they didn’t actually commit, is sickening. In the story, Tom is accused of a crime with little evidence suggesting that he is guilty. This problem is still present today, which to me, is a very surprising revelation.
The themes that represent this section of the story are the damage done by racism and the overarching question of whether or not there is equality for all under the law in the U.S. Tom is accused of rape by a white female even though little evidence is provided that proposes he actually committed this crime. His race plays a large role in the accusations made against him, and it could also determine his fate. This statement also proves that there is some inequality under the law in the U.S. The fact that Tom is charged for rape when there is little evidence also shows this.
I agree with you Kathryn. There is no going back once the death penalty has been given. That's why I don't believe in the death penalty. The jury can make a mistake, even with solid evidence. The statistic that says 4.1% of people are innocent, is truly atrocious.
I agree with you too. People shouldn't be given the death penalty because if they are wrong the convict will be dead and unfortunately for them, Frankenstein isn't any bit realistic. People should be given a life sentence but, a death penalty is too much.
Mayella recites this to Atticus as she is on the witness’ stand. It’s ironic because her dad can barely read and write. He is unschooled and barely literate. Mayella is educated in a similar manner. She only went to school for about two to three years and is also very uneducated, although she is one of only about three of her siblings that is literate.
I think it’s really sad that Mayella is so uneducated on not just school related subjects, but on life. She has probably never been beyond Maycomb, and likely rarely travels past her home. She is a Ewell, meaning that she does not value school in the least. She never cared nor valued it. I often take my education for granted, which is very ungrateful because not everybody gets such a great schooling. It’s also sad that Mayella has not seen other, more respectable families. Due to her lack of exposure, she may never learn what a functioning family really looks like.
This especially connects to the theme that family’s influence is very important on a child’s development. Mayella can read, but does not have much experience with it. She has not been to school long enough to have learned anything more than the rudiments of the English language. This explains why her grammar is incorrect. If her father had had a better influence on her, and he had sent her to school for longer, she would have surely learned more and would have a better life. In this case, the family’s negative impact on Mayella has essentially ruined her life in the sense that she cannot improve her life, and does not want to due to a lack of experience of other people’s lifestyles. (Pg. 244, Paragraph 9)
I think in the book it said that only Mayella and her father could read and write. Mayella believes that her father is educated because she doesn't know anyone smarter. Their family lives away from the town, behind the dump, so I would guess that they don't interact with outsiders very often.
I think you bring up a very good point Abby. By understanding that Mayella does not fully believe that see can improve her life style and that she will always be stuck in the same position she is in. Shows how bad the Ewells children's home life is.
Atticus let her question answer his. “Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?” was his next. “Love him, whatcha mean? “I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?”... “Answer the question, Miss Mayella,” said Judge Taylor. Chapter 18, page 245-246
In these scene, Mayella Ewell is being interrogated by Atticus at the courthouse. Atticus is asking her questions and Mayella has difficulties responding to Atticus. She is afraid of something.
I think that all of what Mayella and Bob Ewell said is a lie. They are trying to make Tom Robison look guilty of something he did not do. Little by little Atticus is bringing the truth out of Mayella’s mouth. I also think that Mayella is not saying bad things about Tom because she wants to but because someone is making her do it. It may be Bob Ewell the guilty.
The themes that connect with these scene are the true definition of courage and the damage done by racism. When someone is not taught the right way of doing things, they usually follow the way they learned to do it and it ends up hurting others. Mayella almost tells the truth when Atticus asks her about her father, which was a lie to make Tom Robinson look guilty.The fact that Tom Robinson is black makes him guilty. Mayella in some way is protecting her father making Tom the guilty.
I agree because it is even evident that Mayella is being forced to say these things by someone (probably Bob) because of the way she is acting. She seem fidgety and unsure sometimes, and other times she burst out in tears. She clearly couldn't handle the pressure, and that pressure is probably lying under the oath.
I agree that the whole story was a lie. Through out the trial Atticus is making Mayella rethink her story. As the questioning goes on you believe that she might tell you what really happened. I do believe someone told her to say this story.
But she did not hear the compassion in his invitation. “I got somethin‘ to say an’ then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an‘ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin‘ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin‘—your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin‘ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch —”
In this scene Atticus is constantly firing questions at Mayella and she is not responding to any. Finally after Atticus is finished Mayella stands up and says this, right after, she starts to cry. Yet again, Tom, is accused of rape based off of what a white person said.
Racism is still happening today, you might not think so, but it most definitely is. With what is happening in Ferguson, the white cops are saying that the blacks were reaching for their guns, however we have no proof if that actually happened. Sounds familiar doesn’t it, a white person accusing an African American based off of only his/her words. America is better than this, I think we should have learned by now.
This scene shows the damage done by racism. Mayella is accusing Tom, of rape and what proof is there, none, just there word which today, that doesn’t really mean anything. Today in order to determine guilty or innocent there needs to proof as bright as daylight. But in this case, there is no proof, no witnesses, only the word of a poor father and daughter.
I disagree, if a white man were reaching for a police officers gun, the officers would do the exact same thing. Police officers are trying to do their jobs. They have to protect the community from any threats.
I agree because especially with the hidden racism still present in the south, it's not easy to tell if the white cop was saying that as a reason to justify his actions, or because he is certain that he was reaching for his gun.
“Miss Mayella,” said Atticus, in spite of himself, “a nineteen-year-old girl like you must have friends. Who are your friends?” The witness frowned as if puzzled, “Friends?” “Yes, don’t you know anyone near your age, or older, or younger? Boys and girls? Just ordinary friends?” Mayella’s hostility, which had subsided to grudging neutrality, flared again. “You makin’ fun o’me agin, Mr. Finch?” page 245
During this scene, Atticus questions Mayella about any friends or acquaintances outside of her family. She first reacts with confusion, then anger, because she believes that he is making fun of her for not having any friends. Atticus is trying to prove that she does not know the outside world, that she is young and ignorant to anything other than her home life.
Many young people from small towns get a culture shock when they leave and go visit a big city. They expect the world to be small and to seem the same as their hometowns, but when they step into the world they don’t know how to react. Just like Mayella, they don’t know anything other than what they grew up around. Since Mayella doesn’t have any friends she doesn’t even know what her town is like, let alone what the people are like or even what’s truly beyond her crooked fence. A theme in this chapter would have to be family values. Although the Ewells don’t have strong values, they know they must fend for themselves to survive. I feel that Mayella doesn’t know what happened on the night that she said Tom Robinson came after her. I think that her father planted an idea in her head about what happened and told her what to say, so that another colored man would end up behind bars. If they won, it would most likely result in the family receiving money that Mr. Ewell could spend on liquor.
“ The jury learned the following things: their relief check was far from enough to feed the family, and there was strong suspicion that papa drank it up any way... I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with? He does tollable, ‘cept when-- Except when? Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer. Except when nothin’ said Mayella. I said he does tollable. Mr. Ewell leaned back again. Except when he’s drinking? asked Atticus so gently that Mayella nodded .” From bottom of page 244 and skip to bottom of page 245
In this scene Mayella is put on the stand and is being questioned by Atticus. The Jury and court house now learned that there was suspicion of Mr. Ewell. Suspicion that Mr. Ewell drank all the money way when received and that he beat Mayella when he was drunk. This conspiracy led to the thoughts of: if Mr. Ewell beat Mayella instead of Tom Robinson beating her. This information also had added onto the thought from earlier, of why Mr. Ewell did not call the doctor to check on Mayella, or also how Mr. Ewell is left-handed. These clues may just make the case become clear if they were snooped around in.
A connection made in this quote was how people around the world, had fathers that abused them when drinking. Mayella’s situation sounds similar to many of the sad stories heard. I find that it is so disturbing how people abuse alcohol and their children. It is so sad and disheartening when a story like this is heard. But, this also makes me wonder why she hasn’t tried to help herself or her siblings. If they ran away or did anything their father would probably beat them even more.
I thought that it was courageous to tell the jury how her father spent their only money and how he actually acted. You could tell he was furious because of how red he was, but also how he acted from his position in the courthouse. I also thought that another theme this quote connected to was if there really is justice for all under the law in the United States. I thought that action should be taken to prevent against another beating of the Ewell children. Mr. Ewells hideous action to his children have made them fearful and nervous which has affected their actions.
“Love him, whatcha mean?” “I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?” page 245
In this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about her life at home. More specifically, he wants to know about her father, Bob Ewell. It is hard for Mayella to answer these questions, which probably indicates that Bob does not treat her well or care about his children.
Mayella has a lot in common with many children in the world today. I read an article about a girl who had to live with an alcoholic mother growing up. This made a huge impact on the daughters life. The daughter says that because of her alcoholic mother, her childhood was lonely. She never had an adult to talk to. She was basically taking care of her parent, when it should be the other way around. I think that this is similar to what Mayella is going through. She has to take care of her family because she is the oldest and her father is always drinking.
The theme that relates to this scene the most is the importance of family. Mayella does not have a father who takes care of her and helps her grow up. Bob Ewell spends all of the money he earns on alcohol for himself when his family needs the money. Mayella also mentions that she doesn’t have any friends. If I were Mayella I would feel lonely and unwanted. It is upsetting to me that she can’t even tell Atticus that her father is good to her when he first asks. She takes a while to think about it which shows that he is not good to her.
“I got somethin’ to say’an then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an’ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin’ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin’— your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin’ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch—“ Pg. 251
In this scene, Atticus is cross-examining Mayella Ewell in order to hear her side of what happened that night she was allegedly raped by Tom Robinson.
I wonder why Mayella feels as if the court is not going to help her. It is obvious that she is uncomfortable in the courtroom and cannot keep her testimony consistent. She is clearly afraid of someone, and she projects this fear onto Atticus Finch. In reality, Atticus Finch truly wants to help her and uses his questions to ascertain her daily life. In contrast to today, victims of domestic abuse had no help and no means to leave their dangerous situation. Mayella knows this and must keep the family secrets.
The themes that connect to this scene are the importance of home and family, damage done by racism, the true meaning of courage, and justice under the law. First, it is evident that Mayella does not have much of a home and family, and she doesn’t love her father, only fears him. She is unaccustomed to being spoken to with dignity, courtesy, and respect. Therefore, she is very suspicious when Atticus is addressing her. The damage done by racism can be seen by her reference to Tom as “that nigger yonder”. She does not refer to him by name, as if he was unworthy of one. Although Mayella is perpetuating the lie, she is showing courage by protecting her father. She knows that if he goes to jail, the only home that her younger siblings know will be gone and that they would be separated. She is so sure of her position that she speaks out vehemently in court that something needs to be done, and that fine manners don’t matter; she just needs Tom to be found guilty and punished. Justice under the law is also demonstrated in this scene as Mayella feels that despite her family’s socio-economic background, they are entitled to pursue justice and have their day in court.
I partially agree with your opinions, but I disagree on the part about Mayella being courageous. I feel that for her to be truly courageous she should stand up to her father and tell the truth. She is letting her father get away with a crime while trying to convict an innocent man. I think this shows that she is a coward and this does not show justice under the law because they are lying about the events that transpired. Do you think it courageous to lie about something in order to save yourself?
I used the same quotes as you and I connected it to the theme of importance of home and family for most of the same reasons. I find it very interesting how you connected it to all the themes, however, I agree with Lilia that Mayella isn’t being courageous by lying about Tom raping her.
I agree with you, Rory. The only reason that Tom fled from the scene of the crime was because he was scared he would be hurt. This shows how much of an impact a racist society has on the population of people that are being judged by the color of their skin.
“Don’t want him doin’ me like he done Papa, tryin’ to make him out lefthanded…” Chapter 18 page 240
In this scene, Mr.Gilmer is questioning Mayella about the night the rape occurred. She is saying that Atticus is trying to falsely accuse Bob Ewell of raping her.
I find this extremely disturbing because Atticus is figuring out that all of the evidence points to Bob Ewell being guilty. I believe that Bob Ewell is guilty and Mayella is too scared to admit it because she thinks he may hurt her again. I think that accusing Tom Robinson because of his race is extremely disturbing. She would rather have an innocent man die than put the guilty man in jail.I have heard many cases like this where people accuse an innocent person because they are scared of what the guilty person will do to them. It scares me to think people feel so threatened for their life that they would let an innocent man die.
The theme that this connects to is the damage done by racism. People are so racist and against blacks that people think they can accuse an innocent black man and get away with it. People were taught that black people were bad people. In Maycomb, most people have a biased opinion towards black people and believe that Tom Robinson because of his race.
I disagree. Mayella isn't the only one at fault. Her father planted fear inside her by being a drunk parent. She doesn't know right from wrong, because her father blurred her vision to the outside. In the news, you find the children of alcoholic parents to be very damaged. Is this their fault?
I wondered if anybody had ever called her “ma’am,” or “Miss Mayella,” in her life; probably not, as she took offense to routine courtesy. Page 244
During the trial, Scout wonders this when Mayella is on the witness stand. Atticus, being the nice man he truly is, refers to the victim as ma’am and other courteous names for woman. Young Mayella takes these titles as an insult, not knowing that it is actually the polite thing to say.
This scene shows the contrast of Atticus and Bob Ewell in raising children. Scout, a young child, knows how to be polite, knowing to refer to elders as Sir and Ma’am. The nineteen year old Mayella thinks of this vocabulary as a mockery or sass, which shows the lack of intelligence and courtesy in the Ewell family. A very common phrase thrown around nowadays is the American Dream; an idea saying that anyone can be successful with the right attitude and work ethic. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always stand true, as parents like Bob Ewell refuse to give their children access to a proper education, and eventually the chance to be successful. Without these core traditions and manners taught from parent to child, there is a slim chance of success which is very sad to think about.
This scene relates to, “the importance of family” as we see the advantages given to Scout and Jem because of Atticus as a father. Without such a great father, Scout could be unable to read and Jem could be a rude boy with no manners. Although they are given names, I feel that the Ewell family acts as a universal character in itself. No one in the family has shown any good aspects. Burris doesn’t have manners, Bob is a drunk and Mayella constantly uses racial slurs and seems very uneducated.
I agree with you in that there is a huge difference in the way Atticus raises his children in comparison to the way Bob Ewell does. I don't think it is Mayella's fault that she feels threatened by Atticus' use of language. She hasn't been exposed nor taught good manners. I do not think it's a matter of intelligence, I think it is a matter of education. How can you expect someone to know something they've never learned?
“Mr. Braxton Underwood, who had been sitting quietly in a chair that was reserved for the Press, soaking up testimony with his sponge of a brain, allowed his bitter eyes to rove over the colored balcony, and they met mine. He gave a snort and then looked away.” Chapter 18 Page 252.
In this scene we see Mr. Braxton Underwood typing up what is going on in the trial. Mr. Underwood, is known as a very racist person in the town of Maycomb. If it was up to him, Tom Robinson would never even have been given a fair trial. As Mr. Underwood is writing he looks up at the balcony were people who are black are supposed to sit. He spots Scout, Jem, and Dill up on the balcony and does not like the fact that they are sitting with African Americans.
In today's world parents try to make sure that their kids are hanging out with the right people. Today, many people are judged based on who they talk to or who they are friends with. If you think about it the people who you are friends with really represent who you are. Most people surround themselves with people who are similar to them or people who enjoy the same things. I know that for me I like to be friends with people that are similar to myself. In this scene Scout is being judged because she is sitting with the African American people on the balcony. Really, Mr. Underwood has no right to judge her just because of who she is sitting with.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. Scout, Jem, and Dill all are looked down upon by Mr. Underwood because they are sitting with the African Americans in the balcony. Just because they are sitting with people of a different race does not mean that they are any less that Mr. Underwood and the rest of Maycomb. People really look down upon the kids just because they are talking and sitting with the African Americans.
I have to disagree, Danny. I actually believe that Mr. Underwood is racially tolerant. He even had Atticus' back as he was protecting Tom Robinson from a mob. I think he doesn't like that the children are sitting on the balcony because they were told not to attend the trial.
“Miss Mayella,” said Atticus, in spite of himself, “a nineteen-year-old girl like you must have friends. Who are your friends?” The witness frowned as if puzzled. “Friends?” “Yes, don’t you know anyone near you age, or older or younger? Boys and girls? Just ordinary friends? Mayella’s hostility, which had subsided to grudging neutrality, flared again. “You makin’fun o’ me agin, Mr. Finch?”
In this scene Atticus is constantly asking Mayella questions in order to find flaws in her responses. She tries to explain how Tom Robinson beat her, but Atticus shows the judge how Tom Robinsons left arm is 12 inches shorter than his right. Having one arm 12 inches shorter than the other makes it increasingly difficult to achieve certain tasks such as beating someone up.
What I find disturbing is the fact that even with such little evidence, there is still a possibility that Tom Robinson gets proven guilty. There have been many recent situations similar to the trial To Kill A Mockingbird. Whether a black man is accused of killing or getting killed, the ruling is almost always In favor the whites.
http://www.east-buc.k12.ia.us/00_01/bh/et/et.htm
The link above tells the story about a young black man Emett Till who said bye baby to the wife of a store owner. Later that day he was was beaten to death by two member of the ku klux klan. After the two men were arrested they were found not guilty and were let out of jail.
The theme that is closely connected to this scene is damage done by racism. Even with the little evidence the Ewells have, Tom Robinson is still looked at as if he is guilty of rape. Blacks are automatically assumed or looked at to be thugs, and less than others. That is how many of them tend to be treated, and continue to be treated today.
“It's an easy question Miss Mayella, so I'll try again. Do you remember him beating you about the face?”Atticus's voice had lost it's comfortableness; he was speaking in his arid, detached professional voice. “Do you remember him beating you about the face?” “No, I don't recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me.” pg. 247-248
In this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about the incident. She is confuse about the answer and sounds like she is lying. Mayella is contradicting herself when she says that she doesn’t recollect if he hits her.
I thing that Atticus has been a good lawyer and defends very well Tom. This case could be related or compare with those women who their partner beat them but they continue quiet. Some women do this because they say love their partner or sometimes just because they are afraid of get beaten again. Maybe, Mayella is also afraid of Mr. Ewell and that’s why she does not report the damage.
The theme that connects to this scene is the true definition of courage. Even though, Atticus noted how difficult is to win this case, he still asking questions and also he never gives up. Mayella, as we can read, is defending her father’s innocence. Despite this, Atticus and the kids don’t care about race and try to help others when they are innocent.
“I got somethin’ to say’an then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an’ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin’ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin’— your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin’ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch—“ Page 251.
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella Ewell who is testifying that Tom Robinson raped her. Mayella gets very upset and is very emotional. She feels like Atticus is mocking her.
I find it very interesting that Mayella is getting very offended by what Atticus is asking her. She doesn’t have one straight story and she seems uncomfortable being in the courtroom. From her body language to what she says makes me believe that she is lying about Tom raping her. If she did nothing wrong like she is saying, she would have nothing to fear except being in the same room as the man who hurt her.
The theme demonstrated in this scene is the importance of home and family. She doesn’t appear to love her father, she seems to be afraid of him which isn’t shocking knowing he is an alcoholic and doesn’t care much. Mayella also isn’t used to Atticus treating her with common courtesy which makes me question how she is treated at home.
Atticus let her question answer his. “Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?” was his next. “Love him, whatcha mean? “I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?”... “Does he ever go after you?”... “Answer the question, Miss Mayella,” said Judge Taylor. Chapter 18, page 245 to the top of 246
In these scene, Mayella Ewell is being questioned by Atticus in the courthouse. Atticus is asking her questions and Mayella has difficulties responding to Atticus’s questions that involve very specific details about Tom and her father. She seems to get nervous as Atticus continues interrogating her.
I believe that Tom is innocent and that Bob hurt Mayella when he was drunk. The Ewells are trying to make Tom Robison look guilty of a crime he did not commit. As Atticus asks more questions, he starts to bring out the truth right out of Mayella’s mouth.
The themes that connect with these scene are the damage done by racism and the true definition of courage.When someone is not taught to do things correctly and/or not taught to have respect and discipline it can end up putting others in critical danger.The fact of Tom Robinson being black makes him guilty. Mayella almost tells the truth when Atticus asks her about her father, but does not. Atticus did a very good job of comparing Mr. Ewells’ arm and Tom’s arm.
I completely agree! Another example to support your view on the situation is how Mayella is unable to answer such a simple question that any child would answer in a sec, clear proof that her father is the culprit.
“Somehow, Atticus hit her hard in a way that was not clear to me, but it gave him no pleasure. He sat with his head down, and I never saw anybody glare at anyone with the hatred mayella showed when she left the stand and walked by Atticus’s table.” Page 252.
In this scene, Scout talks about Atticus and his clear displeasure after aggressively cross-examining Mayella and forcing her to breakdown on multiple occasions.
If I were Atticus I would also feel upset and almost guilty after the cross-examination with Mayella. I would never want to make somebody scared enough and sad enough to cry multiple times while testifying, but if it had to be done I would. Atticus understands that even though he may not enjoy cross examining so forcefully, he has to if he wants to be able to prove Tom innocent.
The theme that connects to this scene is the true definition of courage. Atticus is very courageous in this scene because he unselfishly does something that he doesn’t want to do for the greater good. Atticus needs to be hard with Mayella to give himself a chance to win this case an give Tom a chance to survive. Also, Atticus realizes that he may be ridiculed or ostracized for his cross examination by his fellow peers, but does it anyway because he knows it will help Tom’s chance at being acquitted.
“Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?’ No answer. ‘ What did your father see in the window, the crime of rape or the best defense to it. Why don’t you tell the truth, child, didn’t Bob Ewell beat you up?” p251
Atticus is questioning Mayella Ewell about what happened to her on the night she was beat up, and supposedly raped. Atticus is saying that Bob beat Mayella up, but she denies it.
Atticus is a fantastic lawyer. He displays the evidence to his advantage and questions the witnesses to find the information he needs to acquire. I was watching T.V. today and Atticus reminded me of one of the characters, who was a lawyer. Atticus knows what he believes in and he defends it under the law. The case of Mayella Ewell and Tom Robinson is not a complicated one. Bob Ewell beat up his daughter, that much is becoming clear. Tom Robinson may get convicted, but it will not be due to him being guilty of the crime he is accused of.
This scene connects to the theme that asks the question: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? During the 1930s, there was not. Tom fears conviction for a crime he did not commit, Based on the color of his skin. At this point in American history, there was not justice for all under the law in the United States. Atticus may be an amazing lawyer, but he may not be able to save Tom from the racism in Maycomb.
“He got it caught in a cotton gin, caught it in Mr. Dolphus Raymond’s cotton gin when he was a boy… like to bled to death… tore all the muscles loose from his bones” page 249
This scene was at courtroom during trial, Sykes whispers to Jem and Scout and tell how did Tom Robinson hurt his arm. He told them that he used to work since he was young.
Today, there are laws to protect child labor and they get fair pay, but in 1930s many child was forced to work and many of children couldn’t get education. I think Tom Robinson had to work for family and had to face a obstacles.
This relates to the theme of damage done by racism. Tom Robinson had to work when he was young and he got hurt his arm while he was working in the cotton gin. Many African American children were forced to work for family because they couldn’t earn enough money to survive.
“ Do you love your father , Miss Mayella?” “Love him whatcha mean ?” “ I mean is he good to you , is he easy to get along with?” “He does tollable, ‘cept when”.... Pg 245 In this scene Atticus is asking Mayella Ewell if she has a good relationship with her father Bob Ewell. She was about to tell the whole courtroom that her father was an abusive alchohlic , but saw that her father stood up , and she decided to say nothing. I think that when she saw that her father stand up she felt pressured to say nothing because if she did she would be in big trouble. In my opinion I feel that Mr.Ewell is the reason why she is beaten up , and they decided to blame it on Tom because he’s a negro .Which means that he would get in bigger trouble and be easier to just say that he did it because he’s black . This scene connects to the importance of home and family . This is because you don’t know what happens behind house doors. Even though the family may seem peaceful you never know what they do behind the doors.I strongly feel that if Mayella was by herself in a room one on one with Atticus she would tell him what really happened , but because her father is there she feels that she has to line up with what the rest are saying so won’t get into any trouble.
“Then she bursted into real tears. Her shoulders shook with angry sobs. She was as good as her word. She answered no more questions, even when Mr. Gilmer tried to get her back on track.”Chapter 18 page 251
In this scene the author is describing the character Mayella. She is telling us about Mayella’s state of mind. Mayella was the main witness in this trial. It is clear that she is highly upset and pushed beyond her limits. She is frustrated with the questions and she refuses to answer no more questions.
In many trials today lots of witnesses get pushed to a limit that they can not handle. Highly emotional states can influence into whether the truth will be told or not.
What I find disturbing is Mayella could be lying and put an innocent man in prison. Her refusal to speak anymore makes it more likely for people to doubt her story. Mayella had a graved impact on Atticus’s case.
Nice point Liam. Some cases today can be derived to the point where people can get frustrated and not be able to get to the point. Putting an innocent man in prison is very wrong, because for all we know she can be lying to get him in trouble.
“Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer.” "Except when nothin'," said Mayella. "I said he does tollable.” Pg:245 L: 25
Atticus was interrogating Mayella when she was sitting in the witness chair, at the beginning she was afraid that Atticus did what he did with his father, for her too much questioning could be confused as a joke. But during questioning Mayella , she took a long time for to understand and put all her ideas in order, she didn't respond quickly to what Atticus asked and either answered because she was very nervous and she always looked at his father, Mr Ewell.
What I found disturbing is the reason that why she felt offended by everything that Atticus was saying, when in fact he was just nice with her. Mayella is a young girl with a lot of difference comparing with his father , the story mentions that his father has problems with alcohol maybe he use the money to spend on alcohol, the main possibility that really exists is that has not been any violation. However there were blows and for Atticus, might be that Mr Ewell hit her when he found her with Tom Robinson, a black man.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family, being very nervous Mayella leaves much to say about the allegations about Tom Robinson, there is the possibility that she actually has not been raped, but beaten by her father but she doesn't want to let everyone know that his father is a bad person and the people of Maycomb would not speak worst of his family, more than they already speak, I think also for her is very important what his father think, an evidence of this is that she didn't respond to the question that Atticus made, could be that what really happens is that she has a romance or something with Tom Robinson but she is afraid about what his father could said because in Maycomb was a lot of racism and her father would not accept the relationship.
“I said come here, nigger, and bust up this chiffarobe for me, I gotta nickel for you. He coulda done it easy enough, he could. Page 241
In this scene, Mayella is telling the story before she got raped. She said that she was attacked from behind and was fully controlled. Mayella states that she saw Tom trying to hold on to her but with the evidence they have right now, it is likely for Tom to rape her.
As I read ahead of the book, it is likely that Tom raped her. Just that the difference in evidence is difference makes it weird for Tom to rape her.
The theme here is the damage done by racism. Tom is basically did not rape her but because being black, Tom has to go through the long trial for nothing.
“Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?’ was his next. ‘Love him, whattcha mean?’ ‘He does tollable, ‘cept when-” (page 245) In this scene of the story Atticus is pushing Mayella to share what her home life is like. Unlike Jem and Scout who love and respect their father very much Mayella does not feel the same way towards her father. When Atticus asks Mayella about this and if she loves her father. She has much difficulty answering his questions. I think that this adds to the jury’s understanding of Mayella’s home life. This in addition to Atticus’ other questions build up the understanding that Mayella does not really understand what “normal” life is like. This relates to what we often discuss in global class about how each person lives in a metaphorical cave. In each persons cave is a different view of the world some people are very culturally aware of the world and other people like Mayella know very little about how other people live. The more exposure one has to the more understanding they are towards others. This scene relates to the theme of the importance of home and family. From this scene it is obvious that Mayella does not have a good relationship with her father and a bad home life. Having a good home life is a crucial part in growing up and Mayella cannot even decide if she loves her father. It is sad to see a young girl grow up with a bad home life missing out on so many great things in life.
"I said come here, nigger, and bust upthis chiffarobe for me, I got a nickel for you. He coulda done it easy enough..." page 241.
In this scene, Mayella is talking to the jury and judge about how she got raped before the trial. She said that he grabbed him around the neck and started being cursed at and then hit again and again and then she was attacked from behind.
As the court case, the evidence that she is giving makes the situation seem very realistic. No one still knows what is happening in the case, for there could be a twist and something could go wrong.
This connects to the damage done by racism, because although the case can very likely be true, Mayella can be trying to damage the situation and making it worse so that there is a more likely chance that Tom will be arrested.
“'Love him, whatcha mean?' 'I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?'" (Page 245)
In the scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about her dad (Bob Ewell). He is asking her these set of questions about her dad because he suspects that he was the one who beat Mayella.
This wouldn't be a surprising suspicion because many times on the news there have been reports of fathers beating their children when they're drunk. This is very upsetting, that alcohol can make someone become so violent. Also, in a movie I recently, saw titled, "McFarland, USA", a drunk father became angry and started to punch the walls. Atticus's accusations are fitting considering Bob's known history.
This scene fits under the category of the importance of home and family. Growing up under Mayella's circumstances being poor, living behind the county dump, and having a drunk dad can seriously take a toll on her future. She may turn out to act the same way, and/or have serious problems.
“‘Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?’ was his next. ‘Love him, watcha mean?’ ‘I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?’ ‘He does tollable, ‘cept when-’ ‘Except when?’ Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer. ‘Except when nothin’,’ said Mayella. ‘I said he does tollable.’ Mr. Ewell leaned back again. ‘Except when he’s drinking?’ asked Atticus so gently that Mayella nodded. Page 235
In this scene, Mayella is in the witness stand. Atticus is trying to gain some insight into her relationship with her father and how he treats her, and by what she responds, the relationship seems to be unhealthy. According to psychcentral.com, “more than twenty-eight million Americans have seen at least suffer alcohol’s serious adverse effects, leading to serious family problems. Like Mayella, these people with alcoholic parents are left with psychological scars due to being mistreated by their issued parent(s). According to kidshealth.org, “Some parents with alcohol problems might mistreat or abuse their children emotionally or physically. Others may neglect their kids by not providing sufficient care and guidance.” In Mayella’s case, her father uses money from the government for alcohol rather than to benefit the family, causing her to believe that her father loves his addiction more than he family. Also, in this scene, it is clear that she is afraid of her father, afraid of what he’d do to her if she admits to the court how she is treated by him. These feelings of unwantedness and distress are evident in Mayella, as she shows through her hesitation in the courtroom and Tom’s description of her, and are definitely still felt today by children with alcoholic parents.
This scene can fall into the theme of the importance of home and family. The experiences people have in their homes as children can have a great influence on their lives in the future. If people don’t feel safe or wanted in their own home, they’re destined to become people who have difficulty trusting others, and that can often lead to alienation. This is not a healthy lifestyle, but what they might have experience as children, such as having an alcoholic father who abuses money and his own children, might have cause emotions that have stay with them throughout their lives.
I think that Mayella being scared of her father is the reason that this court case happened. I believe that the night that the alleged rape occurred, Bob was drunk, and he beat Mayella, and made up a story about Tom raping his daughter to not get in trouble for beating her. This is furthered by the fact that the bruises on Mayella's face were on her right side, which is where a left handed person like Bob would hit her.
“Then she burst into real tears. Her shoulders shook with angry sobs. She was as good as her word. She answered no more questions, even when Mr. Gilmer tried to get her back on the track. I guess if she hadn’t been so poor and ignorant, Judge Taylor would have put her under the jail for the contempt she had shown everybody in the courtroom. Somehow, Atticus had hit her hard in a way that was not clear to me, but it gave him no pleasure to do so. He sat with his head down, and I never saw anybody glare at anyone with the hatred Mayella showed when she left the stand and walked by Atticus’s table.” p.251
In this scene, Mayella is angry and frustrated with Atticus, because he harshly questioned her about accusing Tom Robinson of rape. Atticus doesn’t take pride in making a girl cry, but he had to do what he had to do in order to win the trial.
This scene resembles the theme of the importance of home and family. Atticus has always been a wonderful father to Jem and Scout, and no matter what, he’s always a good example. He never took pride of making Mayella cry, and Scout noticed it. Scout had instantly gained respect for her father just then.
My father is similar to Atticus in many ways, so I know what it’s like in a sense to be Scout. My dad has always been a good example for me and my brothers, and he has never done what wasn’t right.
“ Does he ever go after you?” “How do you mean?” “When he’s-riled, has he ever beaten you?” ...”My paw’s never touched a hair on my head in my life... he never touched me.” Page 246
At this point in the book, Atticus is questioning Miss Mayella at the witness stand. She is talking about how her father has never laid a hand on her before, after Atticus asked.
This could have been a major turning point in the case, if Mayella were to respond yes to the question. We already have evidence that her dad could have beaten her, since he is left handed, and the bruises and black eye were on Mayella's right side. If Mayella were to answer yes, Atticus could talk about the impact that Bob being left handed has. But in today’s justice system, neither Bob or Mayella would probably be taken seriously as witnesses. Bob, being a drunk, and Mayella being someone who has had no social interaction with other people for years. I believe that if this case were to play out in today’s justice system, the entire case would be completely different.
This connects to the theme of the importance of family. I believe that Mayella is lying when she makes this response. I think so because of previous responses about her father being a drunk, and her being afraid of him. In my opinion, Bob forced Mayella to make this confession, to show why she has these bruises, and to get Tom killed. Bob is an evil, racist person who has no regard for a persons life if they aren’t a white male. Mayella truly loves her father though, and she is willing to lie to keep him out of trouble. If that is also true, Mayella is one of the most courageous people in the book, even though what she is saying could get another person killed.
"'Mr. Ewell,' Atticus began, 'folks were doing a lot of running that night. Let's see, you say you ran to the house, you ran to the window, you ran inside, you ran to Mayella, you ran for Mr. Tate. Did you, during all this running, run for a doctor?'" (Page 234)
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Bob about why he didn't run or call for a doctor considering he was running all over the place.
I strongly agree with Atticus because if he was so concerned with his daughter's health, he would've called for a doctor regardless if he has or has not called one before. This question and Bob's response alone should convince the jurors to start believing in Tom. The way he claims he was worried for Mayella suggest that he would get medical attention for her immediately. For whatever reason, he was more worried about catching "who had done it" rather than her well-being.
This scene connects to the theme of the importance of home and family because it is important to have family members who will always try to protect you. It is clear that Atticus will protect Jem and Scout, but it is not clear if Bob will protect his children, including Mayella.
I agree completely that Bob Ewell claims he cares for his daughter but doesn't have a great way of showing it. After he was asked why they didn't seek medical help he responded saying that he couldn't want to spend the money by taking her to a doctor. After this response I would also begin believing Tom Robinson
I agree that it was really odd that Bob thought it was a better idea to catch whoever did that to his daughter than to call for a doctor. They said that she was brutally beaten but no one thought to get her immediate medical attention?
“It’s an easy question, Miss Mayella, so I’ll try again. Do you remember him beating you about the face?” page 247
During this part of Atticus’s cross examination of Mayella, Atticus asks multiple questions in a rapid manner in an attempt to have Mayella reveal what truly happened that day.
This portion of the trial demonstrates the theme of whether there justice for all under the law. The is very little evidence against Tom but he is black and the Ewells are white. Both of them are poorly educated and live similarly in poverty. The underlying racism of the time will make it difficult for Tom to be treated justly under the law. I feel that this is similar to what is happening in Ferguson, Missouri where racism has also divided a town.
Suddenly Mayella became articulate. "I got somethin' to say," she said. page 251
In this scene, Atticus is showing compassion for the poor girl Mayella and she did not recognized Atticus's politeness.
I think here is showing to us how different her world is from him and Mayella is too scared to say anything.
The themes that connect with these scene are the true definition of courage and the importance of home and family. Due that she's had any experience with, and so they're strange to her and also she start to cry so Atticus start to feel sorry for her.
“Long’s he keeps on callin’ me ma’am an sayin’ Miss Mayella. I don’t hafta take his sass, I ain’t called upon to take it.” Chapter 18, Page 243
In this scene Atticus is questioning Miss Mayella about the case. He keeps referring to her as Miss Mayella and ma’am. Miss Mayella does not like this and assumes that he is mocking her and making fun of where she comes from.
What I find disturbing about this quote is that Miss Mayella rejects the idea of being called Miss or ma’am she just assumes that she is being made fun of when she is, she does not believe that she is good enough to be called those names. No matter where you come from everyone deserves respect, it is disappointing to me that she does not believe she is good enough to be called those names. Everyone is entitled to their opinions on the Ewell family, but just as you are entitled to your opinion they are entitled to respect; everyone is. They just need to realize it. In the world everyone can relate to this, sometimes after we do something wrong we feel that we don’t deserve respect because what we did was so bad. Everyone feels inferior at one point or another in their life, but that doesn’t mean you dont deserve respect. For example one time I got a terrible grade on my math test. I felt terrible about it and felt as if I didn’t deserve the same treatment as the other kids, as if I has let my teacher down. I almost felt guilty when he gave me another shot. Although this is a completely different situation than Miss Mayella we can relate on the feeling we both felt inferior and that we did not deserve to be treated the same.
This quote connects to the importance of family. Miss Mayella did not come from a great family background. When her father was asked if he was the dad at court he responded saying that even if he isn’t theres nothing he can do about it now because her mother is dead. This proves Miss Mayella her family life was a little spotty growing up. Without the support growing up that she needed she clearly was unable to develop basic self respect and that is why she feels offended when people call her ma’am or miss. She doesn't feel as if she's good enough to be called that. All in all having a strong family is very important.
I agree that everyone deserves respect no matter what age, who you are, or where you come from. I too find it sad that Mayella automatically assumes that she is being mocked or made fun of by Atticus. No one respects her because of where she comes from and how her family is. I think that when you are so used to everyone being rude or disrespectful to you, it's hard to tell whether or not someone is being sincere.
“ I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?” “ He tollable, ‘cept when --” “ Except when?” “Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing.” (bottom of page 245)
In this scene Atticus had asked Mayella about her home life and how her father was to her. She seemed very uncomfortable on the stand at that moment and had some difficulty answering the question.
I think Mayella was going to bring up her father's drinking problem before she cut herself off. Everyone in Maycomb already knows that her father is a drunk and uses the money for the family to buy his alcohol. I believe that Mayella really wanted to speak up about her father's behavior but she realized it would make her family look bad and not help her case at all. There are lots of children today that struggle with parents who are alcoholics just like Mayella. I found an article that said that more than 28 million Americans have seen at least one of their parents suffer from alcoholism. (The link to the article is down below.) http://psychcentral.com/lib/children-of-alcoholics/000260
The theme that goes best with this section is the importance of home and family. Not everyone is brought up with an amazing parent like Atticus. Mayella is one who is not as fortunate as Scout and Jem. People with alcoholic parents can look okay on the outside but we don’t really know what is going on behind the closed doors of their home. The fact that Mayella can not answer Atticus’ question and has to look over at her father for approval gives us hints that he is not kind to her when he gets drunk and that there are secrets in that family that she must keep.
Chapter 18 “No, I don’t recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me.” “Was your last sentence your answer?” “Huh? Yes, he hit- I just don’t remember, I just don’t remember… It all happened so quick.” Page 248
In this scene Atticus is asking Mayella if she recalls being beaten in the face by Tom Robinson. She responds with an unsure answer saying she doesn’t remember him hitting her than changing her answer saying he did and then finally ending by saying she doesn’t remember.
This scene makes the reader acknowledge that she does not have her story straight, so what she is saying is most likely false. Her accusations are being questioned. This scene is something that is seen in our society when people lie to authority figures and mix up their stories. In most cases leading them into trouble and getting caught.
This scene relates to the damage done by racism. With no evidence in the case and Mayella Ewell not being able to answer a simple question, Tom Robinson is still looked upon as guilty from the white community. Black people in this time were looked upon as criminals and even though everyone knows the Ewells aren’t good news they still believe Mr. Robinson is a criminal and should be put in jail.
"'Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?' No answer. 'What did your father see in the window, the crime of rape or the best defense to it? Why don't you tell the truth, child, didn't Bob Ewell beat you up?'" page 251
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella about what really happened at her house. Atticus believes that Bob beat up Mayella, but, she won't admit to it.
Atticus, being the amazing lawyer he is, uses the information given to his advantage. Atticus knows that Mayella is afraid, Tom is innocent, and that Bob was the one that beat Mayella. Atticus' only problem is that he can't get Mayella to admit to Bob's actions. In some movies that I watch, lawyers use very similar strategies to what Atticus is doing in this novel. The lawyers find the most vulnerable witnesses and ask them the same question over, and over, and over, until finally, they crack. This strategy is very smart because Atticus knows that Tom is innocent and that Mayella is weak and afraid. If Atticus can exploit Mayella's weaknesses, he will surely be able to win the trial.
This scene most definitely relates to the theme: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? Unfortunately, during the Great Depression there was not. Atticus fears that because of the color of Tom's skin, he may not be able to win the case. Although Atticus is a phenomenal lawyer, he may not be able to win this case for the innocent man.
Chapter 18: “ Do you love your father , Miss Mayella?” “Love him whatcha mean ?” “ I mean is he good to you , is he easy to get along with?” “He does tollable, ‘cept when”. (Page 245)
In this scene Atticus asks Mayella if she loves her father. Mayella almost tries to avoid the question and never really say she loves him. Since Mr.Ewell was an alcoholic it shows how their relationship does not seem to strong. She sounded like she was about to saw something bad about her father, but she decided to keep her mouth shut and said nothing.
I think that Mayella feels sorry for herself. She is always crying and I think that she wants to get Judge Taylor to feel sorry for her when he shouldn't. Although, Atticus was just doing his job by asking questions it made him seem like the bad guy when Mayella started crying.We still don't know what the truth is so maybe she is lying and her Dad actually beat her up. As I mentioned before she never truly said that she loves her father. When she looked at her father she seemed very nervous for some reason. I think right now that Mr.Ewell beat her up rather then Tom based on what I have heard so far. It would be easy to blame it on Tom since he is a black.
The theme that relates to this scene is the importance of home and family. We have no idea what goes on in the Ewell household. There's a possibility that Mr.Ewell actually beat up his daughter Mayella and Tom did nothing wrong. Mayella does not answer every question fully and I think that has something do with her father being in the room. Atticus asked her a series of questions that she chose not to answer. There is a lot at risk for her family and their reputation. It is probably very hard for Mayella because I think that she feels she can’t say anything bad about her father.
On PG# 245 Mayella Ewell states, “He does tollable, ‘cept when”
Atticus: “Except when”?
Scout: Mayella looked at her father who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing, He sat up straight and waited for her answer”.
Mayella: “Except when nothing, I said he does tollable”.
Atticus: “Except when he’s drinking”? Mayella nods.
In this scene/quote Scout is observing the courtroom as her father, Atticus questions the victim of rape, Ms. Mayella. Clearly she is confused if she should keep quiet or tell the truth about her father. To add on to the pressure, her father, Robert E. Ewell, watching everything she claims in front of the judge and Atticus.
The theme in this scene/quote is the importance of family. Though Mayella’s answer is obviously false, she continues lying to please her overlord of a father. This may not show the theme in the best light, but it still is an example of how important your family could be, even in this type of a situation!
In this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella Ewell what occurred on the night of November 21st, and she keeps changing her answer and hesitating if she answered the question correctly or not. Atticus asked her if her father beat her of did Tom Robinson. She didn’t answer.
I think that Atticus is using the information given from the case to his advantage. This is because Atticus is searching for clues using his lawyer instincts to help find the real culprit. Also, if Tom Robinson actually beat her, how would he do it if Atticus had found out that Tom’s left arm is crippled? This this style of writing by the author connects the storyline from one chapter to the next. Also, it helps the reader anticipate and infer what is going to happen is the next chapter.
“what was that ?’’ asked the judge. “Him,” she sobbed, pointing at Atticus. “Mr.Finch?” She nodded vigorously, saying, “Don’t want him doin’ me like he done to papa, tryin’ to make him out lefthanded ...” Page 240, chapter 18. In this scene, Mr. Gilmer is questioning Mayella about the night when the rape took place. She was saying that Atticus was trying to accuse Bob Ewell for trying to rape her. In my opinion I think this is all false because Atticus is figuring out that all the evidence accuses Bob Ewell for being guilty. The theme showed on this is the damage done by racism. A lot of people are racist to black people. Also people accuse black people because of their color and they think that is easy blaming a black person because they can make them be guilty more fast. They also believed that black people are not bad or dangerous.
"Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?"(Page 251)
In this scene Atticus is questioning the testimony of Mayella. He feels that she is lieing and accusing Tom Robinson for something he didn't do.
I think that Mayella is lieing and accusing Tom for something he didn't do. Mayella keeps changing her testimony. Like when she first says that she doesn't remember Tom hitting her in the face and afterwards she says that she is certain that he did. Also, when Atticus ask the last few questions she remains silent and doesn't answer.
This scene connects to the theme "Is there really justice for all under the law in the United States?" No matter how suspicious Mayella can act or no matter how much proof there is to prove the Tom is not guilty, with one little act from Mayella she can convince the jury that he is guilty.
In this scene, starting on page 239, Atticus is questioning Mayella Ewell what happened to her on the night of November Twenty-First. Atticus keeps having to repeat the questions and Mayella keeps changing her answers to make it seem like Tom Robinson raped and beat her. Atticus has Tom stand up and the author describes that Tom's left arm is crippled and at least a foot shorter than his right arm. Mayella's right eye was bruised but he couldn't have possibly done it if his left arm was crippled. This relates to the theme that not all get justice under the US law. Mayella and her father picked Tom as the one who beat her because he was an easy target and winning a case against a black man would get their family enough money to live. This relates to how people in low income areas will adopt children so they get paid more by the government even if they don't care about the kids, just money.
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DeleteI agree with you partially, Max. I believe that the Ewells blamed Tom Robinson for rape because he was an easy target, however, I disagree that they don't have enough money to live off of already. Bob Ewell would have enough money for his family if he hadn't spent all his money on alcohol. Even if they won the court trial, they still wouldn't have enough money to live off of as a family because Bob would eventually spend it all on alcohol anyway.
DeleteI agree with you Sonny, but I see where you are coming from Max. Tom was an easy target because of the color of his skin, back then that mattered in the court of law. But, I agree with you Sonny the Ewell family does have money Bob just spends it on alcohol. They would not be rich if he spent it more appropriately but, they would certainly get by.
Delete“He got it caught in a cotton gin, caught it in Mr. Dolphus Raymond’s cotton gin when he was a boy… like to bled to death… tore all the muscles loose from his bones—” Page 249
ReplyDeleteDuring the trial, Reverend Sykes whispers to Jem and Scout and explains how Tom Robinson’s arm was injured. In the scene, Tom’s left arm is twelve inches shorter than his right, and it is not viable. Tom is accused of rape and assault when one of his arms is not functional.
In contrast to our world today, there are child labor laws to protect children. The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 ensures that work does not affect the health, safety, or educational opportunities of children under the age of 18. There is a set minimum wage and guidelines for maximum hours worked and minimum age. These laws are enforced in order to protect our youth.
This website provides the children labor laws and restrictions in the United States today.
http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/youthlabor/
Themes that relate to this scene are the damage done by racism and justice under the law in the United States. Tom’s arm was damaged as a young boy working in the cotton gin. African American boys were forced to work at young ages in order to make money for the family to survive. Due to racism, blacks were not paid nearly enough for their work, so children in the family had to work, too. If there was no racism, Tom would not have had to work at a young age, and wouldn’t have injured his arm. This scene shows that there is not justice for all under the law in the United States because Tom does not have a fair trial. He is being tried by many racist white people. Their opinions are biased, and Tom’s immobile left arm is not even used as evidence by the jury that he didn’t commit the crime. It is not possible for Tom to have punched Mayella’s right eye, pinned her down, or choked her if she resisted. There is not really justice for all because the subjects are being viewed and treated very differently due to their race.
I agree, the prosecutor, Mr. Gilmer, tried to twist Tom's words into making him say that his right arm is very strong and that he can still work. It is impossible for Tom to have hit Mayella's right eye with his left arm, because he has no use of it.
Delete“Mr. Braxton Underwood, who had been sitting quietly in a chair that was reserved for the Press, soaking up testimony with his sponge of a brain, allowed his bitter eyes to rove over the colored balcony, and they met mine. He gave a snort and then looked away.” Chapter 18 Page 252.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Scout, Jem, and Dill are sitting with Reverend Sykes and the rest of the African American crowd in the upper level of the courthouse. Braxton Underwood has been mentioned a few times in what we’ve read so far. He works for the Maycomb Tribune, the local newspaper, as a reporter. His hatred of African Americans is fairly well known by almost everybody in Maycomb county. When he makes eye contact with Scout, he takes particular notice in where exactly she is sitting. When he snorts, it is full of disgust and abhorrence toward the children, for he disapproves of the fact that they are interacting with blacks.
Today, a lot of parents monitor who their children are to hang out with. Many people have preconceived ideas about people’s personalities just based on the way they look. For example, some parents will not let their child be friends with another if it looks like they are to engage in certain behaviors or activities. Others make their children avoid interacting with certain races or ethnicities. In the story, Mr. Underwood finds it preposterous that the children are around blacks. Unfortunately today, this still happens with parents who won’t allow their children to be around various groups of people.
This scene portrays the theme of the damage done by racism. Mr. Underwood is known for being discriminatory and intolerant of African Americans. It is because of this that he is disgusted with the fact that Scout, Jem, and Dill are sitting and talking with blacks, without any second thoughts or hesitations.
I agree with you because unfortunately, especially in older generations, people still judge others based on how they look. In some cases, this may be good because your clothes and such show a lot about you, but in other cases, such as judging based on skin color, it is wrong and hurtful.
DeleteI agree with your statement that a lot of parents monitor who their children hang out with. My parents want me to hang out with responsible and trustworthy kids. Lots of my friends' parents care about grades because they don't want their kids to be poorly influenced.
DeleteI agree Kathryn. I don't understand why some parents would decide whether or not their kids should be hanging out with someone because of the way they look, but unfortunately it is a reality.
DeleteI agree with how parents monitor who their child or children hang out with, but similar to the events in the case, parents can't always monitor what their child watches on TV or on the Internet.
DeleteI agree with you Kathryn, it is disturbing that people would tell there kids not to hangout with based upon how they looked. Nowadays parents monitor who their kids hangout with based upon how well they do in school or whether or not they get into trouble, but certainly not because of physical appearance.
Delete“‘Now,’ said Atticus, ‘Miss Mayella, you’ve testified that the defendant choked and beat you-you didn’t say that he sneaked up behind you and knocked you cold, but you turned around and there he was-’ Atticus was back behind his table, and he emphasized his words by tapping his knuckles on it. ‘-do you wish to reconsider any of your testimony?’
ReplyDelete‘You want me to say something that didn’t happen?’
‘No ma’am, I want you to say something that did happen. Tell us once more please, what happened?’” Chapter 18 Page 249.
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella about what Tom had done to her. Mayella’s accusations against Tom seem to be very unlikely because Tom has a disabled arm. His left arm can practically barely function because when he was young, it got caught in a cotton gin. Even when he tries to place his arm on the bible to be sworn in to testify, it is very difficult for Tom to maneuver it. Clearly it is hard to believe that with one good arm, Tom was able to beat, restrain, and rape Mayella Ewell.
According to a study conducted by National Geographic, nearly 4.1% of people accused of a crime that would result in the death penalty, are wrongly accused. This percentage is absolutely astonishing. To think that around 4.1% of convicted people sentenced to death are being executed for crimes that they didn’t actually commit, is sickening. In the story, Tom is accused of a crime with little evidence suggesting that he is guilty. This problem is still present today, which to me, is a very surprising revelation.
The themes that represent this section of the story are the damage done by racism and the overarching question of whether or not there is equality for all under the law in the U.S. Tom is accused of rape by a white female even though little evidence is provided that proposes he actually committed this crime. His race plays a large role in the accusations made against him, and it could also determine his fate. This statement also proves that there is some inequality under the law in the U.S. The fact that Tom is charged for rape when there is little evidence also shows this.
http://phenomena.nationalgeographic.com/2014/04/28/how-many-people-are-wrongly-convicted-researchers-do-the-math/
I agree with you Kathryn. There is no going back once the death penalty has been given. That's why I don't believe in the death penalty. The jury can make a mistake, even with solid evidence. The statistic that says 4.1% of people are innocent, is truly atrocious.
DeleteI agree with you too. People shouldn't be given the death penalty because if they are wrong the convict will be dead and unfortunately for them, Frankenstein isn't any bit realistic. People should be given a life sentence but, a death penalty is too much.
Delete“Read’n’write as good as Papa yonder.”
ReplyDeleteMayella recites this to Atticus as she is on the witness’ stand. It’s ironic because her dad can barely read and write. He is unschooled and barely literate. Mayella is educated in a similar manner. She only went to school for about two to three years and is also very uneducated, although she is one of only about three of her siblings that is literate.
I think it’s really sad that Mayella is so uneducated on not just school related subjects, but on life. She has probably never been beyond Maycomb, and likely rarely travels past her home. She is a Ewell, meaning that she does not value school in the least. She never cared nor valued it. I often take my education for granted, which is very ungrateful because not everybody gets such a great schooling. It’s also sad that Mayella has not seen other, more respectable families. Due to her lack of exposure, she may never learn what a functioning family really looks like.
This especially connects to the theme that family’s influence is very important on a child’s development. Mayella can read, but does not have much experience with it. She has not been to school long enough to have learned anything more than the rudiments of the English language. This explains why her grammar is incorrect. If her father had had a better influence on her, and he had sent her to school for longer, she would have surely learned more and would have a better life. In this case, the family’s negative impact on Mayella has essentially ruined her life in the sense that she cannot improve her life, and does not want to due to a lack of experience of other people’s lifestyles. (Pg. 244, Paragraph 9)
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DeleteI think in the book it said that only Mayella and her father could read and write. Mayella believes that her father is educated because she doesn't know anyone smarter. Their family lives away from the town, behind the dump, so I would guess that they don't interact with outsiders very often.
DeleteI think you bring up a very good point Abby. By understanding that Mayella does not fully believe that see can improve her life style and that she will always be stuck in the same position she is in. Shows how bad the Ewells children's home life is.
DeleteAtticus let her question answer his. “Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?” was his next.
ReplyDelete“Love him, whatcha mean?
“I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?”... “Answer the question, Miss Mayella,” said Judge Taylor. Chapter 18, page 245-246
In these scene, Mayella Ewell is being interrogated by Atticus at the courthouse. Atticus is asking her questions and Mayella has difficulties responding to Atticus. She is afraid of something.
I think that all of what Mayella and Bob Ewell said is a lie. They are trying to make Tom Robison look guilty of something he did not do. Little by little Atticus is bringing the truth out of Mayella’s mouth. I also think that Mayella is not saying bad things about Tom because she wants to but because someone is making her do it. It may be Bob Ewell the guilty.
The themes that connect with these scene are the true definition of courage and the damage done by racism. When someone is not taught the right way of doing things, they usually follow the way they learned to do it and it ends up hurting others. Mayella almost tells the truth when Atticus asks her about her father, which was a lie to make Tom Robinson look guilty.The fact that Tom Robinson is black makes him guilty. Mayella in some way is protecting her father making Tom the guilty.
I agree because it is even evident that Mayella is being forced to say these things by someone (probably Bob) because of the way she is acting. She seem fidgety and unsure sometimes, and other times she burst out in tears. She clearly couldn't handle the pressure, and that pressure is probably lying under the oath.
DeleteI agree that the whole story was a lie. Through out the trial Atticus is making Mayella rethink her story. As the questioning goes on you believe that she might tell you what really happened. I do believe someone told her to say this story.
DeleteBut she did not hear the compassion in his invitation. “I got somethin‘ to say an’ then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an‘ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin‘ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin‘—your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin‘ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch —”
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is constantly firing questions at Mayella and she is not responding to any. Finally after Atticus is finished Mayella stands up and says this, right after, she starts to cry. Yet again, Tom, is accused of rape based off of what a white person said.
Racism is still happening today, you might not think so, but it most definitely is. With what is happening in Ferguson, the white cops are saying that the blacks were reaching for their guns, however we have no proof if that actually happened. Sounds familiar doesn’t it, a white person accusing an African American based off of only his/her words. America is better than this, I think we should have learned by now.
This scene shows the damage done by racism. Mayella is accusing Tom, of rape and what proof is there, none, just there word which today, that doesn’t really mean anything. Today in order to determine guilty or innocent there needs to proof as bright as daylight. But in this case, there is no proof, no witnesses, only the word of a poor father and daughter.
I disagree, if a white man were reaching for a police officers gun, the officers would do the exact same thing. Police officers are trying to do their jobs. They have to protect the community from any threats.
DeleteI agree because especially with the hidden racism still present in the south, it's not easy to tell if the white cop was saying that as a reason to justify his actions, or because he is certain that he was reaching for his gun.
Delete“Miss Mayella,” said Atticus, in spite of himself, “a nineteen-year-old girl like you must have friends. Who are your friends?”
ReplyDeleteThe witness frowned as if puzzled, “Friends?”
“Yes, don’t you know anyone near your age, or older, or younger? Boys and girls? Just ordinary friends?”
Mayella’s hostility, which had subsided to grudging neutrality, flared again. “You makin’ fun o’me agin, Mr. Finch?” page 245
During this scene, Atticus questions Mayella about any friends or acquaintances outside of her family. She first reacts with confusion, then anger, because she believes that he is making fun of her for not having any friends. Atticus is trying to prove that she does not know the outside world, that she is young and ignorant to anything other than her home life.
Many young people from small towns get a culture shock when they leave and go visit a big city. They expect the world to be small and to seem the same as their hometowns, but when they step into the world they don’t know how to react. Just like Mayella, they don’t know anything other than what they grew up around. Since Mayella doesn’t have any friends she doesn’t even know what her town is like, let alone what the people are like or even what’s truly beyond her crooked fence. A theme in this chapter would have to be family values. Although the Ewells don’t have strong values, they know they must fend for themselves to survive. I feel that Mayella doesn’t know what happened on the night that she said Tom Robinson came after her. I think that her father planted an idea in her head about what happened and told her what to say, so that another colored man would end up behind bars. If they won, it would most likely result in the family receiving money that Mr. Ewell could spend on liquor.
“ The jury learned the following things: their relief check was far from enough to feed the family, and there was strong suspicion that papa drank it up any way... I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with? He does tollable, ‘cept when-- Except when? Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer. Except when nothin’ said Mayella. I said he does tollable. Mr. Ewell leaned back again. Except when he’s drinking? asked Atticus so gently that Mayella nodded .” From bottom of page 244 and skip to bottom of page 245
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Mayella is put on the stand and is being questioned by Atticus. The Jury and court house now learned that there was suspicion of Mr. Ewell. Suspicion that Mr. Ewell drank all the money way when received and that he beat Mayella when he was drunk. This conspiracy led to the thoughts of: if Mr. Ewell beat Mayella instead of Tom Robinson beating her. This information also had added onto the thought from earlier, of why Mr. Ewell did not call the doctor to check on Mayella, or also how Mr. Ewell is left-handed. These clues may just make the case become clear if they were snooped around in.
A connection made in this quote was how people around the world, had fathers that abused them when drinking. Mayella’s situation sounds similar to many of the sad stories heard. I find that it is so disturbing how people abuse alcohol and their children. It is so sad and disheartening when a story like this is heard. But, this also makes me wonder why she hasn’t tried to help herself or her siblings. If they ran away or did anything their father would probably beat them even more.
I thought that it was courageous to tell the jury how her father spent their only money and how he actually acted. You could tell he was furious because of how red he was, but also how he acted from his position in the courthouse. I also thought that another theme this quote connected to was if there really is justice for all under the law in the United States. I thought that action should be taken to prevent against another beating of the Ewell children. Mr. Ewells hideous action to his children have made them fearful and nervous which has affected their actions.
“Love him, whatcha mean?”
ReplyDelete“I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?” page 245
In this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about her life at home. More specifically, he wants to know about her father, Bob Ewell. It is hard for Mayella to answer these questions, which probably indicates that Bob does not treat her well or care about his children.
Mayella has a lot in common with many children in the world today. I read an article about a girl who had to live with an alcoholic mother growing up. This made a huge impact on the daughters life. The daughter says that because of her alcoholic mother, her childhood was lonely. She never had an adult to talk to. She was basically taking care of her parent, when it should be the other way around. I think that this is similar to what Mayella is going through. She has to take care of her family because she is the oldest and her father is always drinking.
The theme that relates to this scene the most is the importance of family. Mayella does not have a father who takes care of her and helps her grow up. Bob Ewell spends all of the money he earns on alcohol for himself when his family needs the money. Mayella also mentions that she doesn’t have any friends. If I were Mayella I would feel lonely and unwanted. It is upsetting to me that she can’t even tell Atticus that her father is good to her when he first asks. She takes a while to think about it which shows that he is not good to her.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/mother-tongue/10030431/The-pain-of-growing-up-with-an-alcoholic-mother.html
“I got somethin’ to say’an then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an’ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin’ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin’— your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin’ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch—“ Pg. 251
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is cross-examining Mayella Ewell in order to hear her side of what happened that night she was allegedly raped by Tom Robinson.
I wonder why Mayella feels as if the court is not going to help her. It is obvious that she is uncomfortable in the courtroom and cannot keep her testimony consistent. She is clearly afraid of someone, and she projects this fear onto Atticus Finch. In reality, Atticus Finch truly wants to help her and uses his questions to ascertain her daily life. In contrast to today, victims of domestic abuse had no help and no means to leave their dangerous situation. Mayella knows this and must keep the family secrets.
The themes that connect to this scene are the importance of home and family, damage done by racism, the true meaning of courage, and justice under the law. First, it is evident that Mayella does not have much of a home and family, and she doesn’t love her father, only fears him. She is unaccustomed to being spoken to with dignity, courtesy, and respect. Therefore, she is very suspicious when Atticus is addressing her. The damage done by racism can be seen by her reference to Tom as “that nigger yonder”. She does not refer to him by name, as if he was unworthy of one. Although Mayella is perpetuating the lie, she is showing courage by protecting her father. She knows that if he goes to jail, the only home that her younger siblings know will be gone and that they would be separated. She is so sure of her position that she speaks out vehemently in court that something needs to be done, and that fine manners don’t matter; she just needs Tom to be found guilty and punished. Justice under the law is also demonstrated in this scene as Mayella feels that despite her family’s socio-economic background, they are entitled to pursue justice and have their day in court.
I partially agree with your opinions, but I disagree on the part about Mayella being courageous. I feel that for her to be truly courageous she should stand up to her father and tell the truth. She is letting her father get away with a crime while trying to convict an innocent man. I think this shows that she is a coward and this does not show justice under the law because they are lying about the events that transpired. Do you think it courageous to lie about something in order to save yourself?
DeleteI used the same quotes as you and I connected it to the theme of importance of home and family for most of the same reasons. I find it very interesting how you connected it to all the themes, however, I agree with Lilia that Mayella isn’t being courageous by lying about Tom raping her.
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ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Rory. The only reason that Tom fled from the scene of the crime was because he was scared he would be hurt. This shows how much of an impact a racist society has on the population of people that are being judged by the color of their skin.
DeleteI like the way you explain the themes, Rory. This shows how racism affects everyone and makes the others judge no guilty people.
Delete“Don’t want him doin’ me like he done Papa, tryin’ to make him out lefthanded…” Chapter 18 page 240
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mr.Gilmer is questioning Mayella about the night the rape occurred. She is saying that Atticus is trying to falsely accuse Bob Ewell of raping her.
I find this extremely disturbing because Atticus is figuring out that all of the evidence points to Bob Ewell being guilty. I believe that Bob Ewell is guilty and Mayella is too scared to admit it because she thinks he may hurt her again. I think that accusing Tom Robinson because of his race is extremely disturbing. She would rather have an innocent man die than put the guilty man in jail.I have heard many cases like this where people accuse an innocent person because they are scared of what the guilty person will do to them. It scares me to think people feel so threatened for their life that they would let an innocent man die.
The theme that this connects to is the damage done by racism. People are so racist and against blacks that people think they can accuse an innocent black man and get away with it. People were taught that black people were bad people. In Maycomb, most people have a biased opinion towards black people and believe that Tom Robinson because of his race.
I disagree. Mayella isn't the only one at fault. Her father planted fear inside her by being a drunk parent. She doesn't know right from wrong, because her father blurred her vision to the outside. In the news, you find the children of alcoholic parents to be very damaged. Is this their fault?
DeleteI wondered if anybody had ever called her “ma’am,” or “Miss Mayella,” in her life; probably not, as she took offense to routine courtesy. Page 244
ReplyDeleteDuring the trial, Scout wonders this when Mayella is on the witness stand. Atticus, being the nice man he truly is, refers to the victim as ma’am and other courteous names for woman. Young Mayella takes these titles as an insult, not knowing that it is actually the polite thing to say.
This scene shows the contrast of Atticus and Bob Ewell in raising children. Scout, a young child, knows how to be polite, knowing to refer to elders as Sir and Ma’am. The nineteen year old Mayella thinks of this vocabulary as a mockery or sass, which shows the lack of intelligence and courtesy in the Ewell family. A very common phrase thrown around nowadays is the American Dream; an idea saying that anyone can be successful with the right attitude and work ethic. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always stand true, as parents like Bob Ewell refuse to give their children access to a proper education, and eventually the chance to be successful. Without these core traditions and manners taught from parent to child, there is a slim chance of success which is very sad to think about.
This scene relates to, “the importance of family” as we see the advantages given to Scout and Jem because of Atticus as a father. Without such a great father, Scout could be unable to read and Jem could be a rude boy with no manners. Although they are given names, I feel that the Ewell family acts as a universal character in itself. No one in the family has shown any good aspects. Burris doesn’t have manners, Bob is a drunk and Mayella constantly uses racial slurs and seems very uneducated.
I agree with you in that there is a huge difference in the way Atticus raises his children in comparison to the way Bob Ewell does. I don't think it is Mayella's fault that she feels threatened by Atticus' use of language. She hasn't been exposed nor taught good manners. I do not think it's a matter of intelligence, I think it is a matter of education. How can you expect someone to know something they've never learned?
Delete“Mr. Braxton Underwood, who had been sitting quietly in a chair that was reserved for the Press, soaking up testimony with his sponge of a brain, allowed his bitter eyes to rove over the colored balcony, and they met mine. He gave a snort and then looked away.” Chapter 18 Page 252.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene we see Mr. Braxton Underwood typing up what is going on in the trial. Mr. Underwood, is known as a very racist person in the town of Maycomb. If it was up to him, Tom Robinson would never even have been given a fair trial. As Mr. Underwood is writing he looks up at the balcony were people who are black are supposed to sit. He spots Scout, Jem, and Dill up on the balcony and does not like the fact that they are sitting with African Americans.
In today's world parents try to make sure that their kids are hanging out with the right people. Today, many people are judged based on who they talk to or who they are friends with. If you think about it the people who you are friends with really represent who you are. Most people surround themselves with people who are similar to them or people who enjoy the same things. I know that for me I like to be friends with people that are similar to myself. In this scene Scout is being judged because she is sitting with the African American people on the balcony. Really, Mr. Underwood has no right to judge her just because of who she is sitting with.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. Scout, Jem, and Dill all are looked down upon by Mr. Underwood because they are sitting with the African Americans in the balcony. Just because they are sitting with people of a different race does not mean that they are any less that Mr. Underwood and the rest of Maycomb. People really look down upon the kids just because they are talking and sitting with the African Americans.
I have to disagree, Danny. I actually believe that Mr. Underwood is racially tolerant. He even had Atticus' back as he was protecting Tom Robinson from a mob. I think he doesn't like that the children are sitting on the balcony because they were told not to attend the trial.
Delete
ReplyDelete“Miss Mayella,” said Atticus, in spite of himself, “a nineteen-year-old girl like you must have friends. Who are your friends?”
The witness frowned as if puzzled. “Friends?”
“Yes, don’t you know anyone near you age, or older or younger? Boys and girls? Just ordinary friends?
Mayella’s hostility, which had subsided to grudging neutrality, flared again. “You makin’fun o’ me agin, Mr. Finch?”
In this scene Atticus is constantly asking Mayella questions in order to find flaws in her responses. She tries to explain how Tom Robinson beat her, but Atticus shows the judge how Tom Robinsons left arm is 12 inches shorter than his right. Having one arm 12 inches shorter than the other makes it increasingly difficult to achieve certain tasks such as beating someone up.
What I find disturbing is the fact that even with such little evidence, there is still a possibility that Tom Robinson gets proven guilty. There have been many recent situations similar to the trial To Kill A Mockingbird. Whether a black man is accused of killing or getting killed, the ruling is almost always In favor the whites.
http://www.east-buc.k12.ia.us/00_01/bh/et/et.htm
The link above tells the story about a young black man Emett Till who said bye baby to the wife of a store owner. Later that day he was was beaten to death by two member of the ku klux klan. After the two men were arrested they were found not guilty and were let out of jail.
The theme that is closely connected to this scene is damage done by racism. Even with the little evidence the Ewells have, Tom Robinson is still looked at as if he is guilty of rape. Blacks are automatically assumed or looked at to be thugs, and less than others. That is how many of them tend to be treated, and continue to be treated today.
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ReplyDelete“It's an easy question Miss Mayella, so I'll try again. Do you remember him beating you about the face?”Atticus's voice had lost it's comfortableness; he was speaking in his arid, detached professional voice. “Do you remember him beating you about the face?”
ReplyDelete“No, I don't recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me.” pg. 247-248
In this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about the incident. She is confuse about the answer and sounds like she is lying. Mayella is contradicting herself when she says that she doesn’t recollect if he hits her.
I thing that Atticus has been a good lawyer and defends very well Tom. This case could be related or compare with those women who their partner beat them but they continue quiet. Some women do this because they say love their partner or sometimes just because they are afraid of get beaten again. Maybe, Mayella is also afraid of Mr. Ewell and that’s why she does not report the damage.
The theme that connects to this scene is the true definition of courage. Even though, Atticus noted how difficult is to win this case, he still asking questions and also he never gives up. Mayella, as we can read, is defending her father’s innocence. Despite this, Atticus and the kids don’t care about race and try to help others when they are innocent.
ReplyDelete“I got somethin’ to say’an then I ain’t gonna say no more. That nigger yonder took advantage of me an’ if you fine fancy gentlemen don’t wanta do nothin’ about it then you’re all yellow stinkin’ cowards, stinkin’ cowards, the lot of you. Your fancy airs don’t come to nothin’— your ma’amin’ and Miss Mayellerin’ don’t come to nothin’, Mr. Finch—“ Page 251.
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella Ewell who is testifying that Tom Robinson raped her. Mayella gets very upset and is very emotional. She feels like Atticus is mocking her.
I find it very interesting that Mayella is getting very offended by what Atticus is asking her. She doesn’t have one straight story and she seems uncomfortable being in the courtroom. From her body language to what she says makes me believe that she is lying about Tom raping her. If she did nothing wrong like she is saying, she would have nothing to fear except being in the same room as the man who hurt her.
The theme demonstrated in this scene is the importance of home and family. She doesn’t appear to love her father, she seems to be afraid of him which isn’t shocking knowing he is an alcoholic and doesn’t care much. Mayella also isn’t used to Atticus treating her with common courtesy which makes me question how she is treated at home.
Atticus let her question answer his.
ReplyDelete“Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?” was his next.
“Love him, whatcha mean?
“I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?”...
“Does he ever go after you?”... “Answer the question, Miss Mayella,” said Judge Taylor. Chapter 18, page 245 to the top of 246
In these scene, Mayella Ewell is being questioned by Atticus in the courthouse. Atticus is asking her questions and Mayella has difficulties responding to Atticus’s questions that involve very specific details about Tom and her father. She seems to get nervous as Atticus continues interrogating her.
I believe that Tom is innocent and that Bob hurt Mayella when he was drunk. The Ewells are trying to make Tom Robison look guilty of a crime he did not commit. As Atticus asks more questions, he starts to bring out the truth right out of Mayella’s mouth.
The themes that connect with these scene are the damage done by racism and the true definition of courage.When someone is not taught to do things correctly and/or not taught to have respect and discipline it can end up putting others in critical danger.The fact of Tom Robinson being black makes him guilty. Mayella almost tells the truth when Atticus asks her about her father, but does not. Atticus did a very good job of comparing Mr. Ewells’ arm and Tom’s arm.
I completely agree! Another example to support your view on the situation is how Mayella is unable to answer such a simple question that any child would answer in a sec, clear proof that her father is the culprit.
Delete“Somehow, Atticus hit her hard in a way that was not clear to me, but it gave him no pleasure. He sat with his head down, and I never saw anybody glare at anyone with the hatred mayella showed when she left the stand and walked by Atticus’s table.” Page 252.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Scout talks about Atticus and his clear displeasure after aggressively cross-examining Mayella and forcing her to breakdown on multiple occasions.
If I were Atticus I would also feel upset and almost guilty after the cross-examination with Mayella. I would never want to make somebody scared enough and sad enough to cry multiple times while testifying, but if it had to be done I would. Atticus understands that even though he may not enjoy cross examining so forcefully, he has to if he wants to be able to prove Tom innocent.
The theme that connects to this scene is the true definition of courage. Atticus is very courageous in this scene because he unselfishly does something that he doesn’t want to do for the greater good. Atticus needs to be hard with Mayella to give himself a chance to win this case an give Tom a chance to survive. Also, Atticus realizes that he may be ridiculed or ostracized for his cross examination by his fellow peers, but does it anyway because he knows it will help Tom’s chance at being acquitted.
“Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?’ No answer. ‘ What did your father see in the window, the crime of rape or the best defense to it. Why don’t you tell the truth, child, didn’t Bob Ewell beat you up?” p251
ReplyDeleteAtticus is questioning Mayella Ewell about what happened to her on the night she was beat up, and supposedly raped. Atticus is saying that Bob beat Mayella up, but she denies it.
Atticus is a fantastic lawyer. He displays the evidence to his advantage and questions the witnesses to find the information he needs to acquire. I was watching T.V. today and Atticus reminded me of one of the characters, who was a lawyer. Atticus knows what he believes in and he defends it under the law. The case of Mayella Ewell and Tom Robinson is not a complicated one. Bob Ewell beat up his daughter, that much is becoming clear. Tom Robinson may get convicted, but it will not be due to him being guilty of the crime he is accused of.
This scene connects to the theme that asks the question: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? During the 1930s, there was not. Tom fears conviction for a crime he did not commit, Based on the color of his skin. At this point in American history, there was not justice for all under the law in the United States. Atticus may be an amazing lawyer, but he may not be able to save Tom from the racism in Maycomb.
“He got it caught in a cotton gin, caught it in Mr. Dolphus Raymond’s cotton gin when he was a boy… like to bled to death… tore all the muscles loose from his bones”
ReplyDeletepage 249
This scene was at courtroom during trial, Sykes whispers to Jem and Scout and tell how did Tom Robinson hurt his arm. He told them that he used to work since he was young.
Today, there are laws to protect child labor and they get fair pay, but in 1930s many child was forced to work and many of children couldn’t get education. I think Tom Robinson had to work for family and had to face a obstacles.
This relates to the theme of damage done by racism. Tom Robinson had to work when he was young and he got hurt his arm while he was working in the cotton gin. Many African American children were forced to work for family because they couldn’t earn enough money to survive.
“ Do you love your father , Miss Mayella?”
ReplyDelete“Love him whatcha mean ?”
“ I mean is he good to you , is he easy to get along with?”
“He does tollable, ‘cept when”.... Pg 245
In this scene Atticus is asking Mayella Ewell if she has a good relationship with her father Bob Ewell. She was about to tell the whole courtroom that her father was an abusive alchohlic , but saw that her father stood up , and she decided to say nothing.
I think that when she saw that her father stand up she felt pressured to say nothing because if she did she would be in big trouble. In my opinion I feel that Mr.Ewell is the reason why she is beaten up , and they decided to blame it on Tom because he’s a negro .Which means that he would get in bigger trouble and be easier to just say that he did it because he’s black .
This scene connects to the importance of home and family . This is because you don’t know what happens behind house doors. Even though the family may seem peaceful you never know what they do behind the doors.I strongly feel that if Mayella was by herself in a room one on one with Atticus she would tell him what really happened , but because her father is there she feels that she has to line up with what the rest are saying so won’t get into any trouble.
“Then she bursted into real tears. Her shoulders shook with angry sobs. She was as good as her word. She answered no more questions, even when Mr. Gilmer tried to get her back on track.”Chapter 18 page 251
ReplyDeleteIn this scene the author is describing the character Mayella. She is telling us about Mayella’s state of mind. Mayella was the main witness in this trial. It is clear that she is highly upset and pushed beyond her limits. She is frustrated with the questions and she refuses to answer no more questions.
In many trials today lots of witnesses get pushed to a limit that they can not handle. Highly emotional states can influence into whether the truth will be told or not.
What I find disturbing is Mayella could be lying and put an innocent man in prison. Her refusal to speak anymore makes it more likely for people to doubt her story. Mayella had a graved impact on Atticus’s case.
Nice point Liam. Some cases today can be derived to the point where people can get frustrated and not be able to get to the point. Putting an innocent man in prison is very wrong, because for all we know she can be lying to get him in trouble.
DeleteI also find it disturbing that Mayella would go through all this trouble of lying and making up a fake story and put an innocent man in prison.
Delete
ReplyDelete“Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer.”
"Except when nothin'," said Mayella. "I said he does tollable.”
Pg:245 L: 25
Atticus was interrogating Mayella when she was sitting in the witness chair, at the beginning she was afraid that Atticus did what he did with his father, for her too much questioning could be confused as a joke. But during questioning Mayella , she took a long time for to understand and put all her ideas in order, she didn't respond quickly to what Atticus asked and either answered because she was very nervous and she always looked at his father, Mr Ewell.
What I found disturbing is the reason that why she felt offended by everything that Atticus was saying, when in fact he was just nice with her. Mayella is a young girl with a lot of difference comparing with his father , the story mentions that his father has problems with alcohol maybe he use the money to spend on alcohol, the main possibility that really exists is that has not been any violation. However there were blows and for Atticus, might be that Mr Ewell hit her when he found her with Tom Robinson, a black man.
The theme that connects to this scene is the importance of home and family, being very nervous Mayella leaves much to say about the allegations about Tom Robinson, there is the possibility that she actually has not been raped, but beaten by her father but she doesn't want to let everyone know that his father is a bad person and the people of Maycomb would not speak worst of his family, more than they already speak, I think also for her is very important what his father think, an evidence of this is that she didn't respond to the question that Atticus made, could be that what really happens is that she has a romance or something with Tom Robinson but she is afraid about what his father could said because in Maycomb was a lot of racism and her father would not accept the relationship.
“I said come here, nigger, and bust up this chiffarobe for me, I gotta nickel for you. He coulda done it easy enough, he could. Page 241
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mayella is telling the story before she got raped. She said that she was attacked from behind and was fully controlled. Mayella states that she saw Tom trying to hold on to her but with the evidence they have right now, it is likely for Tom to rape her.
As I read ahead of the book, it is likely that Tom raped her. Just that the difference in evidence is difference makes it weird for Tom to rape her.
The theme here is the damage done by racism. Tom is basically did not rape her but because being black, Tom has to go through the long trial for nothing.
“Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?’ was his next. ‘Love him, whattcha mean?’ ‘He does tollable, ‘cept when-”
ReplyDelete(page 245)
In this scene of the story Atticus is pushing Mayella to share what her home life is like. Unlike Jem and Scout who love and respect their father very much Mayella does not feel the same way towards her father. When Atticus asks Mayella about this and if she loves her father. She has much difficulty answering his questions.
I think that this adds to the jury’s understanding of Mayella’s home life. This in addition to Atticus’ other questions build up the understanding that Mayella does not really understand what “normal” life is like. This relates to what we often discuss in global class about how each person lives in a metaphorical cave. In each persons cave is a different view of the world some people are very culturally aware of the world and other people like Mayella know very little about how other people live. The more exposure one has to the more understanding they are towards others.
This scene relates to the theme of the importance of home and family. From this scene it is obvious that Mayella does not have a good relationship with her father and a bad home life. Having a good home life is a crucial part in growing up and Mayella cannot even decide if she loves her father. It is sad to see a young girl grow up with a bad home life missing out on so many great things in life.
"I said come here, nigger, and bust upthis chiffarobe for me, I got a nickel for you. He coulda done it easy enough..." page 241.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mayella is talking to the jury and judge about how she got raped before the trial. She said that he grabbed him around the neck and started being cursed at and then hit again and again and then she was attacked from behind.
As the court case, the evidence that she is giving makes the situation seem very realistic. No one still knows what is happening in the case, for there could be a twist and something could go wrong.
This connects to the damage done by racism, because although the case can very likely be true, Mayella can be trying to damage the situation and making it worse so that there is a more likely chance that Tom will be arrested.
“'Love him, whatcha mean?'
ReplyDelete'I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?'" (Page 245)
In the scene, Atticus is asking Mayella about her dad (Bob Ewell). He is asking her these set of questions about her dad because he suspects that he was the one who beat Mayella.
This wouldn't be a surprising suspicion because many times on the news there have been reports of fathers beating their children when they're drunk. This is very upsetting, that alcohol can make someone become so violent. Also, in a movie I recently, saw titled, "McFarland, USA", a drunk father became angry and started to punch the walls. Atticus's accusations are fitting considering Bob's known history.
This scene fits under the category of the importance of home and family. Growing up under Mayella's circumstances being poor, living behind the county dump, and having a drunk dad can seriously take a toll on her future. She may turn out to act the same way, and/or have serious problems.
“‘Do you love your father, Miss Mayella?’ was his next. ‘Love him, watcha mean?’ ‘I mean is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?’ ‘He does tollable, ‘cept when-’ ‘Except when?’ Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing. He sat up straight and waited for her to answer. ‘Except when nothin’,’ said Mayella. ‘I said he does tollable.’ Mr. Ewell leaned back again. ‘Except when he’s drinking?’ asked Atticus so gently that Mayella nodded. Page 235
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mayella is in the witness stand. Atticus is trying to gain some insight into her relationship with her father and how he treats her, and by what she responds, the relationship seems to be unhealthy.
According to psychcentral.com, “more than twenty-eight million Americans have seen at least suffer alcohol’s serious adverse effects, leading to serious family problems. Like Mayella, these people with alcoholic parents are left with psychological scars due to being mistreated by their issued parent(s). According to kidshealth.org, “Some parents with alcohol problems might mistreat or abuse their children emotionally or physically. Others may neglect their kids by not providing sufficient care and guidance.” In Mayella’s case, her father uses money from the government for alcohol rather than to benefit the family, causing her to believe that her father loves his addiction more than he family. Also, in this scene, it is clear that she is afraid of her father, afraid of what he’d do to her if she admits to the court how she is treated by him. These feelings of unwantedness and distress are evident in Mayella, as she shows through her hesitation in the courtroom and Tom’s description of her, and are definitely still felt today by children with alcoholic parents.
This scene can fall into the theme of the importance of home and family. The experiences people have in their homes as children can have a great influence on their lives in the future. If people don’t feel safe or wanted in their own home, they’re destined to become people who have difficulty trusting others, and that can often lead to alienation. This is not a healthy lifestyle, but what they might have experience as children, such as having an alcoholic father who abuses money and his own children, might have cause emotions that have stay with them throughout their lives.
DeleteI think that Mayella being scared of her father is the reason that this court case happened. I believe that the night that the alleged rape occurred, Bob was drunk, and he beat Mayella, and made up a story about Tom raping his daughter to not get in trouble for beating her. This is furthered by the fact that the bruises on Mayella's face were on her right side, which is where a left handed person like Bob would hit her.
“Then she burst into real tears. Her shoulders shook with angry sobs. She was as good as her word. She answered no more questions, even when Mr. Gilmer tried to get her back on the track. I guess if she hadn’t been so poor and ignorant, Judge Taylor would have put her under the jail for the contempt she had shown everybody in the courtroom. Somehow, Atticus had hit her hard in a way that was not clear to me, but it gave him no pleasure to do so. He sat with his head down, and I never saw anybody glare at anyone with the hatred Mayella showed when she left the stand and walked by Atticus’s table.” p.251
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mayella is angry and frustrated with Atticus, because he harshly questioned her about accusing Tom Robinson of rape. Atticus doesn’t take pride in making a girl cry, but he had to do what he had to do in order to win the trial.
This scene resembles the theme of the importance of home and family. Atticus has always been a wonderful father to Jem and Scout, and no matter what, he’s always a good example. He never took pride of making Mayella cry, and Scout noticed it. Scout had instantly gained respect for her father just then.
My father is similar to Atticus in many ways, so I know what it’s like in a sense to be Scout. My dad has always been a good example for me and my brothers, and he has never done what wasn’t right.
http://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/2015/03/23/visionary-leader-champ-covington-greenville-dies/70345074/
This is an article of a great man, who was a great example. There are many people all over the world who are wonderful, which is great.
“ Does he ever go after you?” “How do you mean?” “When he’s-riled, has he ever beaten you?” ...”My paw’s never touched a hair on my head in my life... he never touched me.” Page 246
ReplyDeleteAt this point in the book, Atticus is questioning Miss Mayella at the witness stand. She is talking about how her father has never laid a hand on her before, after Atticus asked.
This could have been a major turning point in the case, if Mayella were to respond yes to the question. We already have evidence that her dad could have beaten her, since he is left handed, and the bruises and black eye were on Mayella's right side. If Mayella were to answer yes, Atticus could talk about the impact that Bob being left handed has. But in today’s justice system, neither Bob or Mayella would probably be taken seriously as witnesses. Bob, being a drunk, and Mayella being someone who has had no social interaction with other people for years. I believe that if this case were to play out in today’s justice system, the entire case would be completely different.
This connects to the theme of the importance of family. I believe that Mayella is lying when she makes this response. I think so because of previous responses about her father being a drunk, and her being afraid of him. In my opinion, Bob forced Mayella to make this confession, to show why she has these bruises, and to get Tom killed. Bob is an evil, racist person who has no regard for a persons life if they aren’t a white male. Mayella truly loves her father though, and she is willing to lie to keep him out of trouble. If that is also true, Mayella is one of the most courageous people in the book, even though what she is saying could get another person killed.
"'Mr. Ewell,' Atticus began, 'folks were doing a lot of running that night. Let's see, you say you ran to the house, you ran to the window, you ran inside, you ran to Mayella, you ran for Mr. Tate. Did you, during all this running, run for a doctor?'" (Page 234)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is questioning Bob about why he didn't run or call for a doctor considering he was running all over the place.
I strongly agree with Atticus because if he was so concerned with his daughter's health, he would've called for a doctor regardless if he has or has not called one before. This question and Bob's response alone should convince the jurors to start believing in Tom. The way he claims he was worried for Mayella suggest that he would get medical attention for her immediately. For whatever reason, he was more worried about catching "who had done it" rather than her well-being.
This scene connects to the theme of the importance of home and family because it is important to have family members who will always try to protect you. It is clear that Atticus will protect Jem and Scout, but it is not clear if Bob will protect his children, including Mayella.
I agree completely that Bob Ewell claims he cares for his daughter but doesn't have a great way of showing it. After he was asked why they didn't seek medical help he responded saying that he couldn't want to spend the money by taking her to a doctor. After this response I would also begin believing Tom Robinson
DeleteI agree that it was really odd that Bob thought it was a better idea to catch whoever did that to his daughter than to call for a doctor. They said that she was brutally beaten but no one thought to get her immediate medical attention?
Delete“It’s an easy question, Miss Mayella, so I’ll try again. Do you remember him beating you about the face?” page 247
ReplyDeleteDuring this part of Atticus’s cross examination of Mayella, Atticus asks multiple questions in a rapid manner in an attempt to have Mayella reveal what truly happened that day.
This portion of the trial demonstrates the theme of whether there justice for all under the law. The is very little evidence against Tom but he is black and the Ewells are white. Both of them are poorly educated and live similarly in poverty. The underlying racism of the time will make it difficult for Tom to be treated justly under the law. I feel that this is similar to what is happening in Ferguson, Missouri where racism has also divided a town.
Suddenly Mayella became articulate. "I got somethin' to say," she said. page 251
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is showing compassion for the poor girl Mayella and she did not recognized Atticus's politeness.
I think here is showing to us how different her world is from him and Mayella is too scared to say anything.
The themes that connect with these scene are the true definition of courage and the importance of home and family. Due that she's had any experience with, and so they're strange to her and also she start to cry so Atticus start to feel sorry for her.
“Long’s he keeps on callin’ me ma’am an sayin’ Miss Mayella. I don’t hafta take his sass, I ain’t called upon to take it.” Chapter 18, Page 243
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is questioning Miss Mayella about the case. He keeps referring to her as Miss Mayella and ma’am. Miss Mayella does not like this and assumes that he is mocking her and making fun of where she comes from.
What I find disturbing about this quote is that Miss Mayella rejects the idea of being called Miss or ma’am she just assumes that she is being made fun of when she is, she does not believe that she is good enough to be called those names. No matter where you come from everyone deserves respect, it is disappointing to me that she does not believe she is good enough to be called those names. Everyone is entitled to their opinions on the Ewell family, but just as you are entitled to your opinion they are entitled to respect; everyone is. They just need to realize it. In the world everyone can relate to this, sometimes after we do something wrong we feel that we don’t deserve respect because what we did was so bad. Everyone feels inferior at one point or another in their life, but that doesn’t mean you dont deserve respect. For example one time I got a terrible grade on my math test. I felt terrible about it and felt as if I didn’t deserve the same treatment as the other kids, as if I has let my teacher down. I almost felt guilty when he gave me another shot. Although this is a completely different situation than Miss Mayella we can relate on the feeling we both felt inferior and that we did not deserve to be treated the same.
This quote connects to the importance of family. Miss Mayella did not come from a great family background. When her father was asked if he was the dad at court he responded saying that even if he isn’t theres nothing he can do about it now because her mother is dead. This proves Miss Mayella her family life was a little spotty growing up. Without the support growing up that she needed she clearly was unable to develop basic self respect and that is why she feels offended when people call her ma’am or miss. She doesn't feel as if she's good enough to be called that. All in all having a strong family is very important.
I agree that everyone deserves respect no matter what age, who you are, or where you come from. I too find it sad that Mayella automatically assumes that she is being mocked or made fun of by Atticus. No one respects her because of where she comes from and how her family is. I think that when you are so used to everyone being rude or disrespectful to you, it's hard to tell whether or not someone is being sincere.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete“ I mean, is he good to you, is he easy to get along with?”
ReplyDelete“ He tollable, ‘cept when --”
“ Except when?”
“Mayella looked at her father, who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing.”
(bottom of page 245)
In this scene Atticus had asked Mayella about her home life and how her father was to her. She seemed very uncomfortable on the stand at that moment and had some difficulty answering the question.
I think Mayella was going to bring up her father's drinking problem before she cut herself off. Everyone in Maycomb already knows that her father is a drunk and uses the money for the family to buy his alcohol. I believe that Mayella really wanted to speak up about her father's behavior but she realized it would make her family look bad and not help her case at all. There are lots of children today that struggle with parents who are alcoholics just like Mayella. I found an article that said that more than 28 million Americans have seen at least one of their parents suffer from alcoholism.
(The link to the article is down below.)
http://psychcentral.com/lib/children-of-alcoholics/000260
The theme that goes best with this section is the importance of home and family. Not everyone is brought up with an amazing parent like Atticus. Mayella is one who is not as fortunate as Scout and Jem. People with alcoholic parents can look okay on the outside but we don’t really know what is going on behind the closed doors of their home. The fact that Mayella can not answer Atticus’ question and has to look over at her father for approval gives us hints that he is not kind to her when he gets drunk and that there are secrets in that family that she must keep.
Chapter 18
ReplyDelete“No, I don’t recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me.”
“Was your last sentence your answer?”
“Huh? Yes, he hit- I just don’t remember, I just don’t remember… It all happened so quick.”
Page 248
In this scene Atticus is asking Mayella if she recalls being beaten in the face by Tom Robinson. She responds with an unsure answer saying she doesn’t remember him hitting her than changing her answer saying he did and then finally ending by saying she doesn’t remember.
This scene makes the reader acknowledge that she does not have her story straight, so what she is saying is most likely false. Her accusations are being questioned. This scene is something that is seen in our society when people lie to authority figures and mix up their stories. In most cases leading them into trouble and getting caught.
This scene relates to the damage done by racism. With no evidence in the case and Mayella Ewell not being able to answer a simple question, Tom Robinson is still looked upon as guilty from the white community. Black people in this time were looked upon as criminals and even though everyone knows the Ewells aren’t good news they still believe Mr. Robinson is a criminal and should be put in jail.
"'Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?'
ReplyDeleteNo answer.
'What did your father see in the window, the crime of rape or the best defense to it? Why don't you tell the truth, child, didn't Bob Ewell beat you up?'" page 251
In this scene, Atticus is questioning Mayella about what really happened at her house. Atticus believes that Bob beat up Mayella, but, she won't admit to it.
Atticus, being the amazing lawyer he is, uses the information given to his advantage. Atticus knows that Mayella is afraid, Tom is innocent, and that Bob was the one that beat Mayella. Atticus' only problem is that he can't get Mayella to admit to Bob's actions. In some movies that I watch, lawyers use very similar strategies to what Atticus is doing in this novel. The lawyers find the most vulnerable witnesses and ask them the same question over, and over, and over, until finally, they crack. This strategy is very smart because Atticus knows that Tom is innocent and that Mayella is weak and afraid. If Atticus can exploit Mayella's weaknesses, he will surely be able to win the trial.
This scene most definitely relates to the theme: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? Unfortunately, during the Great Depression there was not. Atticus fears that because of the color of Tom's skin, he may not be able to win the case. Although Atticus is a phenomenal lawyer, he may not be able to win this case for the innocent man.
Chapter 18: “ Do you love your father , Miss Mayella?”
ReplyDelete“Love him whatcha mean ?”
“ I mean is he good to you , is he easy to get along with?”
“He does tollable, ‘cept when”. (Page 245)
In this scene Atticus asks Mayella if she loves her father. Mayella almost tries to avoid the question and never really say she loves him. Since Mr.Ewell was an alcoholic it shows how their relationship does not seem to strong. She sounded like she was about to saw something bad about her father, but she decided to keep her mouth shut and said nothing.
I think that Mayella feels sorry for herself. She is always crying and I think that she wants to get Judge Taylor to feel sorry for her when he shouldn't. Although, Atticus was just doing his job by asking questions it made him seem like the bad guy when Mayella started crying.We still don't know what the truth is so maybe she is lying and her Dad actually beat her up. As I mentioned before she never truly said that she loves her father. When she looked at her father she seemed very nervous for some reason. I think right now that Mr.Ewell beat her up rather then Tom based on what I have heard so far. It would be easy to blame it on Tom since he is a black.
The theme that relates to this scene is the importance of home and family. We have no idea what goes on in the Ewell household. There's a possibility that Mr.Ewell actually beat up his daughter Mayella and Tom did nothing wrong. Mayella does not answer every question fully and I think that has something do with her father being in the room. Atticus asked her a series of questions that she chose not to answer. There is a lot at risk for her family and their reputation. It is probably very hard for Mayella because I think that she feels she can’t say anything bad about her father.
On PG# 245 Mayella Ewell states, “He does tollable, ‘cept when”
ReplyDeleteAtticus: “Except when”?
Scout: Mayella looked at her father who was sitting with his chair tipped against the railing, He sat up straight and waited for her answer”.
Mayella: “Except when nothing, I said he does tollable”.
Atticus: “Except when he’s drinking”? Mayella nods.
In this scene/quote Scout is observing the courtroom as her father, Atticus questions the victim of rape, Ms. Mayella. Clearly she is confused if she should keep quiet or tell the truth about her father. To add on to the pressure, her father, Robert E. Ewell, watching everything she claims in front of the judge and Atticus.
The theme in this scene/quote is the importance of family. Though Mayella’s answer is obviously false, she continues lying to please her overlord of a father. This may not show the theme in the best light, but it still is an example of how important your family could be, even in this type of a situation!
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is asking Mayella Ewell what occurred on the night of November 21st, and she keeps changing her answer and hesitating if she answered the question correctly or not. Atticus asked her if her father beat her of did Tom Robinson. She didn’t answer.
I think that Atticus is using the information given from the case to his advantage. This is because Atticus is searching for clues using his lawyer instincts to help find the real culprit. Also, if Tom Robinson actually beat her, how would he do it if Atticus had found out that Tom’s left arm is crippled? This this style of writing by the author connects the storyline from one chapter to the next. Also, it helps the reader anticipate and infer what is going to happen is the next chapter.
“what was that ?’’ asked the judge.
ReplyDelete“Him,” she sobbed, pointing at Atticus.
“Mr.Finch?”
She nodded vigorously, saying,
“Don’t want him doin’ me like he done to papa, tryin’
to make him out lefthanded ...”
Page 240, chapter 18.
In this scene, Mr. Gilmer is questioning Mayella about the night when the rape took place. She was saying that Atticus was trying to accuse Bob Ewell for trying to rape her.
In my opinion I think this is all false because Atticus is figuring out that all the evidence accuses Bob Ewell for being guilty.
The theme showed on this is the damage done by racism. A lot of people are racist to black people. Also people accuse black people because of their color and they think that is easy blaming a black person because they can make them be guilty more fast. They also believed that black people are not bad or dangerous.
"Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?"(Page 251)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is questioning the testimony of Mayella. He feels that she is lieing and accusing Tom Robinson for something he didn't do.
I think that Mayella is lieing and accusing Tom for something he didn't do. Mayella keeps changing her testimony. Like when she first says that she doesn't remember Tom hitting her in the face and afterwards she says that she is certain that he did. Also, when Atticus ask the last few questions she remains silent and doesn't answer.
This scene connects to the theme "Is there really justice for all under the law in the United States?" No matter how suspicious Mayella can act or no matter how much proof there is to prove the Tom is not guilty, with one little act from Mayella she can convince the jury that he is guilty.