"...that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the evil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber..." page 273. In this scene, Atticus makes his closing speech to the jury. He says that since Tom is black, the jury probably already made up their minds on whether or not Tom is guilty of raping Mayella. This relates to the theme that isn't justice for all under the law of the US. This is like the recent case of the white cop shooting the unarmed black man in Ferguson. He came to a conclusion too quickly which ended up costing a life and an outbreak of cops being killed because they where the badge.
I agree with you blog, Max. This is very similar to the situation in Ferguson. The jury came to a conclusion too quickly which led to an outbreak in society.
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey—that’s why he won’t change his ways.” Page 268
In this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond gives Dill some of his coke, hidden in a paper bag, to settle his uneasy stomach. He tries to explain to the children why he pretends to be drinking alcohol in the bag when really it is just Coca-Cola. Mr. Dolphus doesn’t mind having a false reputation if it can help other people better accept his relationship with blacks.
I strongly disagree with the actions of Mr. Dolphus Raymond. He is very brave for willing to sacrifice his reputation, but I believe that he should publicly show his beliefs instead of making excuses. He should let people know that he has mixed children and enjoys the company of blacks because of their personalities, not because he is drunk and depressed. In my life, when I am at fault it is often easier to make excuses, but the better thing to do would be to tell the truth. A great man, Martin Luther King Jr., once said, “I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.” Growing up, I was told to never lie, and I think that you should voice your true opinions.
Themes that connect to this part of the text are the true definition of courage, the importance of home and family, and the damage done by racism. Mr. Dolphus Raymond shows the true definition of bravery for making himself appear drunk so that the other people of Maycomb County do not have to confront their prejudices and feel guilty. He makes himself an outcast to spare other peoples’ feelings. Although I do not agree with his choices, his actions reflect pure courage. The importance of home and family are shown because Mr. Dolphus Raymond has formed his own opinions about who he wants to associate himself with and has formed a family with a black woman. He has decided that he would rather be an outcast and live in the manner in which he pleases. Due to racism, he feels that the easiest way to live the way he wants is to misrepresent himself.
I disagree with you in the fact that he should let people know that his children are mixed. I think he should leave it up to his children whether or not they want people to know what race they are. In addition, I believe most of the town knows anyway.
I agree with you, Lilia. Although Raymond is right in his beliefs, he is wrong in his way of showing them. He should be openly defending Blacks, like Atticus does. Raymond may have a good heart, but he should not be making excuses for himself just because he is ashamed.
“…confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the evil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber.” Page 273
In this section of the text, Atticus is making his closing argument to the jury. He tells them he knows that they are racist and prejudice against blacks. Atticus knew that they would instinctively believe Mayella solely because of Tom’s race.
Prejudice continues to exist in our world today. At UCLA, a Jewish girl, Rachel Beyda, was nominated to be part of the Judicial Board. The council discussed her nomination and felt that she because she was Jewish, she would be biased and have divided loyalties. Her nomination was first rejected and then a faculty member pointed out that being Jewish isn’t a conflict of interest. The discussion of her nomination was recorded on video and caused a lot of discussion about the prejudice against Jews today. She was eventually accepted.
This article is about the Jewish girl at UCLA. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/06/us/debate-on-a-jewish-student-at-ucla.html
Themes that relate to this scene are the definition of courage, damage done by racism, and justice under the law in the United States. Atticus exhibits real courage when he tells the jury his opinion that their prejudice is causing them to not clearly evaluate the evidence. This is very brave and bold of Atticus since he knows everyone in the room and is criticizing the jury in public. The people’s racism is causing them to not see what the evidence proves. This works against Tom and for Mayella. Also, this displays that there is not justice for all under the law due to racism. Tom cannot get a fair trial because because these people have been raised to believe these things, and they are unable to put aside their prejudices and evaluate the evidence appropriately.
“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.”
In this scene, Mr. Raymond explains how badly people treat each other for no reason. He especially emphasizes how badly African Americans are treated, just because of the color of their skin.
This kind of discrimination is only too widespread today. I try to live under “the golden rule.” This is that people should treat others the way they want to be treated. Today, people seem to forget this rule. They forget that others have the same feeling that they do. They forget that anybody has the ability to hurt another person. Mr. Raymond realizes this and realizes that people in Maycomb have forgotten each other’s feelings. People in Maycomb, and people today, both seem to forget that people are people, no matter how they look.
The tremendous amount of damage done by racism is a timeless and repeated theme both in this book and in the world today. Mr. Raymond says that people give each other hell. He says they don’t even think that they’re the same. They’re both people, but don’t seem to realize it. This constant battering has hurt everybody, black and white. It’s hard to constantly be getting hell as Mr. Raymond says, and nobody can live with it forever. It’s sickening that people treat each other this way. The damage done by others has hurt many people, especially African Americans. This is uncalled for and unremunerated. It must stop. (Pg. 269. Paragraph 3)
It's sad to think that whites in this book are able to treat blacks with such disrespect. It's amazing how Mr. Raymond is able to see through this negativity thrown as African-Americans and see that they're human beings, too.
“She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.”
In this scene, Atticus explains what actually happened to Tom and Mayella on the twenty first of November. He explains to the jury that Tom did nothing wrong, and that it was Mayella who had kissed Tom.
In our society today, it’s acceptable to marry somebody of another color. However, during the 1930’s in the South, where this book takes place it was “unspeakable.” Even today, although it’s still acceptable, there is still controversy among some people whether it should be done. In my opinion, I don’t think that anybody should have any input on whom one marries. It should be their own choice. I think it’s crazy that people’s marriage choices are defined by what color the other’s skin is. They should marry whoever they want. It’s absurd that people are tormented for the person they marry, especially if it’s because of how they look. All people should be treated the same.
This scene best relates to the theme that racism has done a lot of damage to many people. Not only has racism hurt those that are being discriminated, but it hurts those that are protecting and supporting people that are being discriminated. Many people in this time period were trying to defend the groups being discriminated. These people included Mr. Raymond. Unfortunately, they were thought of to be almost as low as those discriminated (for example, how Mr. Raymond was frowned upon by the rest of the town). During marches in the Martin Luther King Jr. era, white supporters of the civil rights movement were often treated badly, too. This page shows some history behind Martin Luther’s tactics and support: https://tavaana.org/en/content/martin-luther-king-jr-fighting-equal-rights-america-0
Atticus says that it is unspeakable that a white woman kissed a black man according to the town. This shows how lowly African Americans were thought of. Racism has caused them to not even be able to be with the people they love. This is a merciless punishment for a crime they never committed. (Pg. 272, Paragraph 3)
I agree with you. It is terrible that people cannot be with who they love due to racism. Also, the people who do believe both races are equal are considered just as low as the blacks. I think that many people believe that the blacks and whites are equal but are scared to show it. They do not want to be known as less than everybody else.
I agree with you Abby. I'm very thankful that times have changed since this time period, but it's sad to look back and reflect on how times used to be. It's awful to know how blacks and people who supported integration were shunned and frowned upon during the 1930's.
Hi Abby, I liked your quote, because it really related to the time period and what the people believed was unacceptable. Another text-to-world connection that I think you could have brought up is the recent debates on legalizing gay marriage throughout the United States.
“‘Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.’” Chapter 20 Page 269.
In this scene, Scout and Dill are talking to Mr. Dolphus Raymond, and he tells Dill to shed his tears on things like the misery caused by racial tension among blacks and whites. He says that white people torment blacks, without any hesitations.
Today, bullying in school districts is a nationwide problem that has lead to a drastic increase in child suicide rates. Nowadays, suicide has become the third most common cause of death among adolescents, with nearly 4,400 deaths each year. In many ways, bullying can be considered an ‘epidemic.’ Often times, bullies are relentless causing extreme pain to others, just like white people would in the 1930s. Mr. Raymond refers to white people as being merciless and very unsympathetic in their actions toward African Americans and other minorities.
A theme that is depicted in this scene is the damage done by racism. White people were very inhumane in how they presented themselves and interacted with African Americans. They would behave like this with much indecision, and Mr. Raymond tells Dill that this is a worthy cause to cry about.
I agree with you, Kathryn! Your text-to-world connection is definitely a problem we suffer from today. I also agree that white people are very unsympathetic and have imprudent actions towards African Americans. It's sad to know how suicide has become the third most common cause of death among teens in modern times, as well. This is certainly a worthy cause to cry about.
I agree with you too. Racial segregation in the '30s is bullying between adults. Bullying hasn't stopped, just evolved. Instead of adults, it is between children and racism is just another form of it.
“...confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the evil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber…” Page 273 In this scene Atticus is giving his closing statement. Atticus says that since Tom is black that the jury has made their decision long ago. Atticus says that society has set African Americans as these animals that only lie and are nothing but bad, but in reality they are not different from anyone else. This scene relates to life from as far as I can remember. African Americans were set as animals and they are beneath us and how we are more important than them. I think that whoever first said this is the worst man in the world. This person has caused so many bad things in this world. He made us believe that based on the color of our skin, we should be treated as a different species almost. This scene definitely has to deal with the theme damage done by racism. People, I think will never not be racist. They have their own opinion about different things and we cannot change their opinion if they truly believe in one thing. If we can’t change people's opinions, change your own.
I also believe that people will always judge and have their own opinions, and they are entitled to that but I believe its one thing to think a certain way about a person and another to act based off that thought.
“ Cry about the simple hell people give other people-- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too. Middle of page 269
In this scene Dill and Scout are having a conversation with Mr. Raymond. Mr. Raymond tells Dill and Scout that they can cry about the hard times, insults and rudeness people give and say to each other. They can cry when white people are so rude, horrible and disgusting to African Americans. But, they do this without even thinking that everyones the same, that everyone is a person no matter what race. Everyone knows that Mr. Raymond likes being with the African Americans and that he also has half white and half black children, but he doesn't seem to care at all. But, he lets the kids know that they can be and get upset when someone treats someone else wrongly. The kids can also get upset when someone is very rude and obnoxious to someone who doesn’t deserve those rude actions.
I agree with Mr. Raymond’s statement he mentioned to Dill and Scout. It’s ok to get upset when something is wrong and should be fixed. it shows that you care and that you would have never done an action like that. Dill and Scout are sympathetic people. But, in this case Dill shows his sensitive side more that Scout does. When you become upset about something, you want to fix the problem and set it straight. This means that you care or in this case both Dill and Scout care.
This quote relates or connects to the theme of the damage done by racism and the true definition of courage. Through this quote Mr. Raymond shows how much racism has affected peoples lives. They are rude , hurtful and obnoxious to each other. Not only are people those things to themselves, they are twice the amount of hurtful, rude and obnoxious to African Americans. People forget that everyone is a person and just treat people that way for the sake of it. Which gives Mr. Raymond and Dill the thought that it is not right at all to treat someone, no matter what race so disrespectfully. But Dill show courage when he cries about how disrespectful Mr. Gilmer is to Tom Robinson. No one deserves to be treated like that, and Dill acknowledges that. He is courageous because he shows his true emotions and what he feels which is how people treat African Americans wrongly. While most people would just go along with being hurtful, while Dill would try to make the difference of being kind.
Dill was very confused on why Mr. Gilmer was so rude to Tom, but Atticus was not mean to Mr. Ewell or Mayella. Scout explained that Atticus is very respectful to everyone. Both children had every right to be upset at how Mr. Gilmer is treating Tom during court and I agree that it was truly courageous of Dill to show his feelings about what was going on.
I agree with you, Sarah. The people of Maycomb really need to learn that everyone should be treated equally. It does not matter where you come from, or what color your skin is. It really makes you wonder, why did this racist way of life start? Also Mr. Raymond is really an example of people judging someone before getting to know them. He really has great advice and it is something that the whole town of Maycomb should listen to.
I agree with you too Sarah. Everybody needs to treat each other equally and with respect. It shouldn't matter what ethnicity you are but that we can all come together and help one another.
“She was white, and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man. Not an old Uncle, but a strong young Negro man. No code mattered to her before she broke it, but it came crashing down on her afterwards.” Pg. 272
In this scene, Atticus is giving his closing arguments to the jury about why Mayella may have lied in court.
In contrast to today, the viewpoint on interracial relationships is quite myopic. Nowadays, it is very common to see interracial couples on television, in movies, or in everyday life. Society is slowly becoming more comfortable with this integration. However, even thinking that races could intermingle, go to school together and share public spaces was inconceivable in Maycomb County during the 1930’s. It would be interesting to imagine the characters being a white man and a black woman. Would the outcome have been the same? Would the social mores be more nebulous?
The theme that connects to this scene is the damage done by racism. Even though Mayella is the one at fault, it is Tom who is on trial. It is assumed that since Mayella is white, her moral standards are higher and she could not possibly have succumbed to sexual desires, especially with a black man. However, it is presumed that Tom, since he is black, cannot control his desires and must have tempted Mayella. Not only is racism dictating that black people are socially and intellectually inferior, it is saying they are morally inferior as well.
Hi Maria, I agree with what you said about Maycomb not being able to even fathom the idea of races mixing in schools or public places. I believe that Maycomb as a whole is a very closed minded place that does not accept outsiders and their ideas. I feel like you could even say that the town doesn't believe in the word different, they want everything to seem picture perfect to anyone who doesn't live there.
“Some folks don’t - like the way I live. Now I could say the hell with ‘em, I don’t care if they don’t like it, right enough - but I don’t say the hell with ‘em, see?” Dill and I said, “No sir.” “I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, that’s why he lives the way he does.” page 268
In chapter 20, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout about why he lives the way he does. He says that he pretends to be drunk so people believe that’s why he sits with the colored people and has biracial children. If they knew that he chose to live his life that way, then they probably wouldn’t understand why and look at him as even more of an outsider.
In almost every school today, many students hide behind a mask or an excuse to act the way they do, because they just want to fit in with everybody else. Some students think that if they acted like themselves, people would treat them differently and not accept them anymore. They use their mask to fit in and go unnoticed by their peers to feel secure. This is like Mr. Raymond’s situation, because he would never be accepted if people knew the truth. The theme that connects to the text is the damage done by racism. The people of Maycomb believe that for Mr. Raymond to have biracial children, there must be something wrong with him. They can’t accept that he prefers that kind of lifestyle. I wonder what would happen if Mr. Raymond came out and told the people that he was not a drinker and that he chose this way. Maycomb would probably shut him out for his decision, because they are all so close minded about any other values and ideas.
Although I understand why Mr. Raymond has chosen to disguise his motives for preferring to live with African Americans, it would be braver to tell his true reasons to the town. He could encourage others to think about his choice and perhaps change their views. By being honest with the townspeople, could he help the black community even more?
I agree with you Lilia I think he could of made a real impact on the town if he spoke up and shared his reasoning. By acting the way he does the people in the town believe him to simply be a drunk man. However, the deeper thoughts that he has and the reasoning behind his actions could possibly bring new beliefs into the town.
“‘Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.’” Page 269.
In this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to the children about his way of life. He says that white people and black people should be treated the same. No matter what their differences are. He says that white people don’t even think about what they are saying to these people. When they should be treated the same as everyone else.
Discrimination like this, is still very common today. People who are racist tend to think that they are better than someone because of their race. They think that they are superior to others when the only real difference is the color of their skin. The other day I saw an article online about how racism has an effect in our community and the world around us. It really makes you wonder, why have we not yet moved past these race issues. They are holding back our society from moving forward and we should all learn to accept one another for who we really are.
http://www.globalissues.org/article/165/racism
This scene connects with the theme of the damage done by racism. The white people in Maycomb were very rude and horrible to the African American people of the town. They discriminated against them and separated themselves entirely from these people. All because they are a different skin color. The white people treat them as if they are not even human. Mr. Raymond makes it clear that “They’re people too” and that they should be treated just the same.
“She was white and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.” page 272
In this scene, Atticus is explaining to the court what happened between Tom Robinson and Mayella Ewell on November 21st. He says that Tom did not rape Mayella. Infact, Mayella forced Tom inside and then began to kiss him. This was her fault, not Toms.
What I find disturbing is that many people in To Kill a Mockingbird are not able to be together due to their skin color. In our society today, it is more difficult to be homosexual than black. Even though racism still occurs, it has declined tremendously and people today are allowed to marry those of a different race. People in our world believe that homosexuality is wrong and that it should be illegal to marry someone of your same sex. I believe that this is completely incorrect. In my opinion, everyone should be allowed to be with whoever they want regardless of their gender, race or ethnicity. This relates to what happens with Mayella and Tom in this scene. Mayella Ewell, a white girl, kisses a black man and when her father finds out he is furious. Other people in the courtroom are disgusted by this as well when they first hear it.
The theme that this scene best represents is the damage done by racism. Bob Ewell gets angry when he sees Mayella kissing Tom, especially because Tom is a black man. Atticus says that in Maycomb county it is extremely uncommon for a white woman to kiss a black man. Atticus then states that he believes that both races, black and white, should be treated equally. I agree with Atticus because both races are similar yet they are taught to dislike each other for no reason.
I agree with Cassidy completely. It’s a really good connection that today how people are discriminating against people who are homosexual and how in this book people discriminate against different races. It’s horrible how people treat people that aren’t like themselves. It’s scary thinking that racism still plays a big role in society.
"'… in the cynical confidence that their testimony would not be doubted, confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption – the evil assumption – that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, and assumption one associates with minds of their caliber.'" (Page 273)
In this scene, Atticus is talking to the jury. He is giving his final statement on the trial and why the jury should decide that Tom Robinson is innocent.
I strongly agree with what Atticus says on this page and the next two pages. For a long time, white people had this view of what they saw in African-Americans. Like Atticus says, they thought of African-Americans as people who solely cause trouble. Even today some people still think this way today. At the University of Oklahoma, students were singing a racist chant that included the lyrics "You can hang them from a tree but they'll never sign with me. There'll never be a * at SAE." (http://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/03/09/lv-banfield-sae-racist-bus-song.cnn) This chant has been found to have originated years ago, which is disheartening to hear about in this day and age.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. The views on African-Americans of parents mainly in the south during the 1930s influenced their children to think the same way. This pattern continued from parent to child which is sadly still seen in people today. The University of Oklahoma is in the south, which is why this may be the reason behind this behavior from these students.
“He’s just gone over the evidence,” Jem whispered, “and we’re gonna win, Scout. I don’t see how we can’t. He’s been at it ’bout five minutes. He made it plain and easy as- well, as I’da explained it to you. You could’ve understood it even.” Page 270.
In this scene, Jem is filling in Scout as to what she missed while outside the courthouse with Dill. He explains that Atticus has it in the bag and it was very easy to understand.
I strongly agree with Jem’s opinion that this case is all but closed and that Atticus has it in the bag. The prosecution has no strong evidence and their only evidence at all is the word of two very unreliable sources in Mayella and Bob Ewell. This case shouldn’t even be in court, but it is simply because Tom Robinson is black. An example of modern day racism with the legal system is the Ferguson, Missouri case. As far as we know, a young black man was shot and killed for no acceptable reason.
The theme that connects to this scene is, is there really justice for all under the law in the United States. Cleary, based on the Tom Robinson case, the answer is no. The prosecution seems to be using the fact that Tom is black as acceptable and legitimate evidence in the case, and even worse, society in Maycomb seems to be buying it.
I agree. The only reason this case is in court is because of Tom's race. The case has no real evidence but only two not trust worthy sources. Jem is right to think that his father won the case because Atticus presents multiple facts and you cant lie about facts.
“She was white, and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man. Not an old Uncle, but a strong young Negro man. No code mattered to her before she broke it, but it came crashing down on her afterwards.” Page 272.
In this scene, Tom is giving his closing argument to the jury. He is saying that Tom Robinson did nothing wrong and that he never raped Mayella. He is claiming that Mayella kissed him and was too ashamed to own up to her actions so made up a story about Tom Robinson which could ruin his life.
I find it so disturbing that a young girl like Mayella would make up these lies just to cover up that she kissed a black man. Society had laid out paths for each individual based on their race and family background and if you didn’t follow them, there was something wrong with you. Tom Robinson had only done good things for Mayella and she still was able to ruin his life by accusing him of rape all because of society’s expectations.
This scene really connects to the theme of the damage caused by racism. If what Atticus is saying is really true, then Mayella is going to crazy extremes to cover up that she kissed a black man. The town believes that white people are superior and no one in their right mind could have any desire towards a black man. So to cover up what she did, she is risking Tom Robinsons life which shows how much she cares what racist people think of her.
“Some folks don’t - like the way I live. Now I could say the hell with ‘em, I don’t care if they don’t like it, right enough - but I don’t say the hell with ‘em, see?” Dill and I said, “No sir.”
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, that’s why he lives the way he does.” page 268
In this scene in chapter 20, Mr. Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout why he lives the way he does. He tells them that he pretends to be drunk so people that people will believe that’s the reason why he sits with the colored people and has children of a different race. If the people in the community knew that he chose to live his life that way, then they wouldn't like him as much and look at him as even more of an outsider. Also ostracize him from many things.
Pretty much in every school in today’s society, students tend to hide behind a mask or have an excuse to act the way they do,whether its good or bad because they just want to fit in with everybody else. The theme that is strongly relates to this is the importance of home and family. Many people think that if they act like themselves than other people won't like who they really are. Some people may do drugs or something that can bring great shame and disappointment to their family.
“She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I cannot pity her: she is white. She knew full well the enormity of her offense, but because her desires were stronger than the code she was breaking, she persisted in breaking it.” pg. 272
In this scene, Atticus id explain that Mayella was lying when said that she was beat by Tom. But, she is a white woman who persisted on braking the law no matter what happen just to stay out of trouble. Mayella knew that she was the one who tempted Tom, a strong young Negro man, to kiss her.
I wonder why Mayella and people today only think about themselves instead of follow the laws. As I watch the news, I notice that more trials are won by whites and the guilty are colored people. I know that most of the time the criminals are African Americans but some of them commit a crime because they are resentful of all damage and discrimination done to them.
There are two themes that connect to this scene: The damage done by racism and really justice for all under the law. It is an enormous injustice to have Tom Robinson on trial and pre-convicted for something he didn't do. But Mayella is also a victim of injustice: kept ignorant, raped by her father, and forbidden to seek companionship from the one person who was ever nice to her. The laws are not that fair, it is more like who has the better lawyer, more amount of money or in the rest of the cases if it is white or colored.
I agree with you Camila. We can't judge people based on their skin color or make them guilty of something just because of how they look. Mayella Ewells is following her fathers orders. It is easy for them to make Tom Robienson look guilty because he is black and they know that just for being black he cannot win the trial.
I completely agree with your connections and you made very valid points. I also firmly agree that it is an injustice to have Tom Robinson on trial and the fact that he can go to jail for a long time just because of a white mans word against his, really bothers me.
"... That all Negroes lie, that all negroes are basically immoral beings, that all negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption are associates with minds of their caliber." Chapter 20, pages 273
In these scene, Atticus is closing a statement at Tom Robinson's rape trial. He is referring to the fact that just for being black it means that they are bad people. Atticus is trying to get them to realize that this is not true. All black men do not lie.
I thinks that in one hand Atticus is totally right. We need to judge people as individuals rather than by their race. No argument here. On the other hand, Atticus calls the lies stereotypes "as black as Tom Robinson's skin. Once more associating the evil with the black people. Although in a more figurative way.
The theme that connects with this scene is damage done by racism. Atticus goes on to say that all black men are just like white men. There are some good, and some bad. It is a lie to suggest that all black men are bad, or that all white men are good. He wants the jury to see Tom Robinson for more than his skin color, and realize that he is innocent and acquit him.
“Cry about the simple hell people give other people - without even thinking . Cry about the hell white people give colored folks , without even stopping to think that they’re people too .” Pg 269 In this scene Dolphus Raymond was telling Dill good reasons to cry , and no to cry for dumb things . I agree with Dolphus but I also have to keep in mind that Dill is only a kid so of course he won’t understand as much. I also disagree with Dolphus because crying is a way of expressing what one feels about something . In this case Dill was crying because he didn’t like the way Mr.Gilmer was talking to Tom Robinson. This is because he didn’t like the way he kept on saying “ Boy” to Tom. But I think what Dolphus is trying to say is that this is something that has been occurring for a long time and it’s not new. This scene connects to the damage done by racism. This is because people tend to forget that just because they’re another color doesn’t mean that don’t have feelings. People just feel that if someone is different they are able to make them feel less.Also that many people cry for simple things other than things that are actually worth crying for .
“The state has not produced one iota of medical evidence to the effect that the crime Tom Robinson is charged with ever took place.” Chapter 20 page 271
In this text Atticus is addressing the jury. He is reinforcing the idea that the jury should find Tom innocent. Atticus fought a hard fight relying on evidence fully knowing that a verdict may be decided on opinion rather than fact.
A text to theme connection is that of truth. We use the expression ‘the truth will set you free”, but is that really the case? Tom Robinson told the truth but might not be set free. He is judged on the color of his skin and not his story. I wonder If this could still happen today. I believe it might which makes us realize that society has to continue to fight against racism.
You thought very deeply about your text to theme paragraph. Tom Robinson is more truthful than the Ewell, but racism prevents prevents Tom Robinskn from "being set free." I constantly wonder if it is possible to live life as if we were all colorblind.
I believe we live in a society where even though you tell the truth you aren't always found innocent among others and that idea not only bothers me but also frightens me.
"Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too." Top of Page 269.
In this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout about how he lives, what he thinks about, and cares for in his life. He believes whites and blacks should be treated as equals despite the color of their skin. Many of the whites in Maycomb grew up in a racist society. When they grow up like this, they are unaware of how discriminative and hurtful they are to the blacks.
Racism and discrimination continues to be a re occurring issue in our world today. It is commonly used to keep people from rising to their true potential, or to make others feel lesser of themselves. When people feel vulnerable or inferior to the rest, they are inclined to say things that are hurtful, or condescending. By doing this, it gives them an illusion of power where they can be easily resented. We need to learn to see without color, and judge each other on the merits of what people are like.
The theme that connects to this scene is damage done by racism. The whites are constantly racists towards the blacks causing fear and tension between the two. It seems as if the blacks want peace, and to be seen as equals and capable as the whites. If this is accomplished, it gives us all a chance to achieve the success that we are all destined for.
That is a good point Javen. Racism is still a big problem, even though it was "abolished" after the movements of Martin Luther King Jr. There is a good connection between the point of racism, and the damage done by racism.
Very true! Even though slavery was abolished, almost 100 years later MLK still had to fight for rights. This shows how we have made very little progress, but every little step counts!
“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.” Chapter 20 Page 269. In this scene of the story Scout and Dill are talking to Mr. Dolphus Raymond. He is explaining to the children how white people treated the colored folks poorly because in their society they are taught they they are not equals. I strongly agree with what Mr. Dolphus Raymond is saying. At this time in history white people would treat colored people without respect and not even realize what the are doing. Scout who has been taught differently from her father still continues to see while and colored people as unequal. It is a shame that people’s views were like this and it took many, many years of segregation issues to come closer to finding a solution to this ongoing issue. It is disturbing to me that in this point in history there have still been issues and situations in which white and colored people are not treated equally. This scene in the story shows the damages done by racism. White people at this time period did not respect colored people. Mr. Raymond points out the heel that white people give to black people. He does not understand how all people are the same in so many ways, but are treated so vastly different.
“She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I cannot pity her: she is white. She knew full well the enormity of her offense, but because her desires were stronger than the code she was breaking, she persisted in breaking it.” Page 272.
In this scene, Atticus was talking about how he knew Mayella was lying and that it was Mayella that tempted Tom into it. Because she was white, she was thought of as the bigger person, considering the time frame that the story took place.
I agree with Atticus, and I can personally connect to the situation that he was talking about. When I was younger, there was a conflict that went on between two of my friends, and everyone took one friends side because he was the "more innocent one", even though the other friend was telling the truth in the first place. This can still happen in the real world, where the minority, in this case, can be looked down upon even though they can still be telling the truth.
This connects to the theme of damage done by racism, because even though Atticus thought that Mayella was lying about the situation, Tom Robinson was telling the truth, in the point of view of Atticus.
"Cry about the simple hell people give other people without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.” page 269
This is a scene when Mr Dolphus Raymond is having conversation with children. he tells that when they can cry and he wants white and black people to be equal.
Today, we still have a racism problem in our world. Many racist people think that they are better and have more power than other’s just because of their race, and it is continues to be a huge problem in our society. People who are racist don’t think before they say something to other’s and don’t think how do the opposite person is feeling. We should accept the way people lives, respect them and we are same human so there shouldn’t be any discriminate between race.
This scene relate to the theme of damage done by racism. The white people in 1930s have been racist and disrespectful people and so do people in Maycomb. They separate because of their skin color and people think if they have different race they have right to do what ever they want and I think that is wrong. We should be equal no matter what race we have.
Mr. Dolphus does not want to sympathise with the hatred of black people in Maycomb. He just want to live an innocent life with his family. He does not care about what other people might think about him.
"... absence of any corroborative evidence, this man was indicted on a capital charge and is now on trial for his life. . . .”p.270
This is a scene in the book where one explains how Tom Robinson is simply accused of something so extreme with no evidence, and is now at court for something so ridiculous.
This scene resembles the theme of justice under U.S. Law because clearly, back then, there wasn’t much. Back then, trials were clouded by judgement, and racism was factored in to all decisions, which is unacceptable and very disconcerting. Now, evidence must be extremely clear and valid to prove someone guilty, and there must be no bias in the matter whatsoever.
I have never appreciated being accused of doing something wrong when there was no evidence that I did it, especially when it wasn’t me. For example, whenever there is a mess in the kitchen, my mother always assumes that I am the one who made the mess, however, it is usually my brother. My mother will yell at me and tell me to clean up even though there’s no evidence that it was me! It is not fair, and even though this is nowhere near as extreme as what Tom had gone through, I still have a certain sense or taste of what he was going through.
This article does a wonderful job of explaining how horrifying Tom’s experience in court must be. Even though it may be hard to believe, there are many different cases where a man was falsely accused of something so that the other party could benefit from the lawsuit, for example, a man was accused of murder, lost the trial, and went to jail for life. Fifty years later, proof was discovered proving that the man had been innocent all along. How tragic must that’ve been!
“Atticus says cheatin’ a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin’ a white man,” I muttered. “Says it’s the worst thing you can do.” Page 269
In this scene, Scout is talking to Mr. Raymond. He, like Atticus, supports the giving African- Americans more rights. He previously stated that they should cry about the hell white people give the colored. He says they are humans too.
Atticus says this to his kids because he knows that it is a horribly true thought. He knows that if you cheat over a colored man it is very hard for them to plead their case. For example, look at the trial of Tom Robinson. It seems that the evidence is there, but in this setting, the word of a white man is stronger than the word of a colored man. This has changed drastically since the Great Depression. Look at our President! Just having a colored man as our leader shows the progress we have made since the Great Depression.
This scene relates to two themes, “the damage done by racism,” and “the importance of family.” Without such a strong connection and intelligent father, Scout and Jem might have turned out like any other child in Maycomb. Atticus teaches them such great life lessons, that lead them away from the mainstream ideas that lead to oppression. He shows them that even though both races are all human, the skin of the man with make his word either stronger or weaker than the other’s.
“Which, gentlemen, we know is in itself a lie as black as Tom Robinson’s skin, a lie I do not have to point out to you. You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men are not to be trusted around women—black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men. There is not a person in this courtroom who has never told a lie, who has never done an immoral thing, and there is no man living who has never looked upon a woman without desire.” Page 273
This scene is when Atticus does a speech to the courthouse about Tom. Atticus tells that everyone has lied in their lifetime and every person has lied once in their lifetime.
Even though the racism now has gotten better than the racism during the great depression, sadly there are reasons why a black man is more likely to be accused for crime than a white man. It may be clothing or manners, but both black and white men are humans that make errors. No one race is perfect in a way. The diverse cultures make us what we are now.
The theme in this quote is the damage done by racism. But, right now not only black people but many other races are discriminated, even their own race. I believe that culturally converging is very important for our lives right now.
“She was white and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.” page 272 Chapter 20
In this scene, Atticus is describing what happened between Mayella and Tom Robinson. He is explaining that Tom did not rape Mayella and that Bob Ewelle hurt his daughter Mayella because he found out that her and Tom kissed.
I strongly disagree with how Bob handled the situation. He should never abuse anyone under any circumstance, especially his daughter. If his daughter was happy and wanted to be with Tom he should accept it and not abuse her, then blame Tom. Our world has come to accept two different races getting married. In certain countries, marrying outside of your religion is extremely frowned upon. Today, most Muslims are still not supposed to marry someone outside of their religion.
This relates to damage done by racism. Bob Ewell is so prejudice against black people that he will not let his own daughter be with Tom. He will do anything to stop her from seeing him just because of his race. Bob goes to court and accuses Tom of raping his daughter so he will not be able to see his daughter anymore.
"Atticus says cheatin' a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin' a white man.. Atticus says it's the worse thing you can do" page 269
In this scene, Atticus is specifically referring to people like Bob Ewell, who knew that if he accused a black man of rape, that man would be convicted, just because of racism and discrimination that exists.
I think If he were to accuse a white man of rape, the odds would be more "equal" than they were in Tom's case. Bob knew that Tom being black would guarantee Tom's verdict of guilt; he took advantage of a man's race to do serious evil.
One theme that connects to this text is the damage done by racism. If Tom Robinson was white, Mayella and Bob Ewell would not have lied as they did and also if he as white he would be treat more equal. Tom is a clear example of racism, just because he is different in color to others.
“You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men are not to be trusted around women- black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men. There is not a person in this courtroom who has never told a lie, who has never done an immoral thing, and there is no man living who has never looked upon a women without desire.” - Page 273
In this scene Atticus is no longer questioning the defendant, Tom Robinson, and is now giving a speech about equality. He is stating in the above quote that black people are no different from white people in the sense that a persons race doesn’t dictate their actions. Just because Tom Robinson is black doesn’t mean he committed the crime he is being accused off.
I find this scene to be a very brave scene in which Atticus stands up for not only Tom Robinson but the whole black community. As a white person it is not viewed as right upon many to not be associated with the black community and by Atticus defending them it was something very courageous in my point of view. People like Atticus who stand up for equal rights and try to stop stereotypes are seen in our society today. In the following link there is a video of a woman who makes racist comments towards another woman who has done nothing to bother her and the people around, although they do not know her stand up to her.
This scene relates to the theme of the damage done by racism. In this scene Atticus is stating the obvious that Mr. Robinson is being accused because of his race. He is stating the damage done by racism and is saying anything done by a black man can be done by a white man. He is stating a persons race does not entitle them to be bad people.
“Cry about the simple hell people give other people-without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.” Chapter 20, Page 269
In this scene Dill and Scout bump into Mr. Raymond. Mr. Raymond gives Dill Coca-Cola and they start talking about how some people dislike the way he lives and how he does not care what others think. Mr. Raymond then goes on to say how once Dill gets a little older he will not cry ever even when things seem a little off, he will notice but never cry. Dill snaps and responds by opening up about how he feels on the treatment of African Americans.
I feel that it is great Dill is able to realize how terribly African American people were treated back in the 1930’s. Not many adults could realize this let alone a young boy. This goes to show how all kids grow up at one point and realize humans are sometimes not good but very bad. Dill exclaims his frustration with the way people treat each other. I can connect to how Dill feels about how humans treat other humans when I see people getting bullied. It is something that happens in every town, just like racism did in the 1930’s. Whenever I see someone getting bullied it really frustrates me. I feel how Dill does and just want to let it all out like he did with Mr. Raymond.
This quote can connect to the theme, the damage done by racism. The fact that a young boy who should be focused on school and sports is exclaiming his frustration with racism and the way people treat each other shows that it was really bad. A young boy’s childhood has gone to waste because of it. Racism doesn’t just affect the people who are targeted it also affects the people around it like Dill. It affected him in a positive way though. He was able to see it and realize how bad it is, which it was it’s just that most people did not realize it. If Dill were not the only one to think like that and everyone could the world would be a much better place.
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. . . Folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey-- that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, thats why he lives the way he does. . . You see that they could never, never understand that I live like I do because thats the way I want to live.” p268
Dolphus Raymond is explaining to Scout and Dill why he pretends to be a drunk when he really only drinks Coca-Cola in his bottle.
Mr Dolphus Raymond is a man who is not afraid to have a terrible his reputation in order to keep what he holds dear to him. He would be judged and would be an outsider, if he revealed the reason for why he is with a black woman. Raymond does not care what the people of Maycomb think of him, because he knows what he loves. He knows what he cares about. Raymond is a different kind of brave, but he is brave nonetheless. In that way he reminds me of my dad. My dad cannot be embarrassed, shamed, or humiliated, because he knows what matters to him.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. Mr. Raymond is forced into hiding his true beliefs because of a racist society that would judge him and not accept him. In a perfect world, no one would be judged for who they are and what they believe, but even today that is not the case. There will always be prejudice, and those who stand against it.
I agree, Mr. Dolphus does not care one bit about what people think and say about him. They just think of him as a man that makes mixed race children and drinks lots of alcohol. I really like Mr. Dolphus, especially how he is white but sits with the blacks and does not care if his reputation is ruined
“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.” Page 269
The amount of racism in this book is astounding. This quote profoundly explains that. It talks about everything that is wrong with the Tom Robinson case, the fact that there is no evidence. Tom was just at the wrong place at the wrong time. The people of Maycomb have become numb to the hurt and suffering that they are causing the black community. It makes me sad to think that racism was a typical American mindset less than a century ago. We have developed so much, but have still a long way to go. This can relate to the LGBT civil rights discussion that is going on today. There is no reason whatsoever that a man and a man or a woman and a woman cannot marry. It just astounds me that we have gone so far, but are still so ignorant.
This quote can connect to the theme of racism, and the damage it causes. This case has hurt so many people, and will hurt more if Tom gets the death penalty. He has not done anything criminally wrong, and today would not be convicted of anything.
“‘I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey, - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself. That’s why he lives the way he does.”
In this scene, Dolphus Raymond is explaining the reason why he pretends to be constantly drinking alcohol. He explains that he does so to give whites a reason why he acts so “abnormally,” because they won’t understand without a reason why he associates with blacks.
It’s amazing to me that Dolphus would go this far to give whites a reason for his actions, but it’s necessary in the racist society they live in. If I was him, I would give into peer pressure and follow the crowd. I wouldn’t disrespect African-Americans, but I wouldn’t go against whites by only associating with them either. I would rather be accepted in the community than have to create a worse image of myself by making up a reason explaining why I act the way I act.
This scene can connect to the theme of damage done by racism. The fact that Dolphus Raymond has to pretend to be a heavy drinker just so that whites can have a reason as to why he associates with blacks is abhorrent. If whites were to except that blacks are people too, what Dolphus is doing wouldn’t be seen as an abnormality.
“'He’s just gone over the evidence,' Jem whispered, 'and we’re gonna win, Scout. I don’t see how we can’t. He’s been at it ’bout five minutes. He made it plain and easy as- well, as I’da explained it to you. You could’ve understood it even.'” page 270.
In this scene, Jem tells Scout that while she was playing in the courtyard with Dill, Atticus had sealed the case and it's a sure win.
I agree with Jem's opinion about his father's work. The prosecutor's only evidence is very unreliable, from the tag team of Mayella and Bob. The only reason why this case is in court is because Tom is black. Even though Tom is black, there are reliable resources at all that show Tom had anything to do with the beating of Mayella. This court case is very similar to the court case in Ferguson. The only reason why there was a trial was because a young black man was shot and killed.
The theme that relates to this scene is the question: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? With the evidence in the court case provided, no there is no justice for all. The only reason there is a court case is because Tom is black, that is the only reason why there is a trial.
I agree Magnus. It is disappointing to think that the only reason that they are there is because Tom is black. If he is white there would most likely not be atrial.
“But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of man. There is not a person in this courtroom who has not told a lie.”
During his closing statements Atticus is telling the court and the jury that all people are equal. If I was on the jury, I would see the message in Atticus’s statement. People say “You’re a liar.” everyday. People often forget that everyone lies. Lying is a unifying factor that does not take skin color into consideration. Mayella and Bob are hiding behind their skin color to protect themselves and hope Tom’s is enough to make him guilty.
The theme demonstrated by this quote is the true definition of courage. Atticus showed courage by voicing an unpopular opinion because he knew what was right. He wanted to show people that no matter what race a person is they can make mistakes.
“ Cry about the simple hell people give other people-- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too” ( top of page 269)
In this section Scout and Dill left the courtroom and went outside because Dill started crying because he was so upset about the way the Mr. Gilmer was talking to Tom. Out there they started talking to Mr. Dolphus.
I agree with how Mr. Dolphus feels about what is going on. Back then the white community was not treating blacks like they were equal. They were considered less that or, in Mr. Dolphus’ words, they were not treating them like they were people. In an article I read it said, when the topic of race comes up, most people say, “I don't see color.” In my opinion that must not really be the case with everyone because today there is still a lot of racism. If people say they don't see color than no one should believe that their race is superior to another. We should all see ourselves equally. ( The article is linked below) http://www.cnn.com/2014/11/26/us/ferguson-racism-or-racial-bias/
This sections shows the theme, the damage done by racism. Blacks were not looked at as equals back then. In Maycomb all they saw was color. What I find crazy is that you were judged not by your character and who you were as a person but based on the color of your skin. You were not thought of as equal if you had skin that was darker than what they thought to be, “normal.”
Chapter 20: “Atticus says cheatin’ a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin’ a white man,” I muttered. “Says it’s the worst thing you can do.” Page 269
In this scene, Scout is having a conversation with Mr.Raymond. Both of them support rights for black people. Just before he says that they should cry about the hell the white people give the colored.
Atticus knows that it is very hard for a black man to plead his case. I think that Mr.Ewell knew that Tom being black would help him win his case. He most certainly took advantage of Tom and I that is just awful. No one should take advantage of anyone regardless of the race.
I think that this scene relates to the importance of home and family. Atticus is a great father to Jem and Scout and teaches them many important and valuable life lessons. Atticus is really teaching Jem and Scout how to become good people and he is leading them on a good path in life. The three of them share a very special bond and I think it has a big deal with Atticus’ role in the family.
“She has committed no crime, she has merely broken a rigid and time-honored code of our society, a code so severe that whoever breaks it is hounded from our midst as unfit to live with . She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I can not pity: she is white.” Pg: 272 L:1
Atticus was giving his final testimony before the jury make the final decision when loosened his tie and vest bag, then he started to saying that the lack of evidence clearly before, show the innocence of Tom Robinson, and neither was guilty Mayella. But he also said that someone in the room was guilty and it would not be Tom Robinson.
During this historical period we could see that racism also affected white people . That means that the codes were so strict that if a person could be associated with a black man could be totally excluded from the city. Like Mr. Raymond. As we had seen before white people also existed between classes and anyone could be relationated with a black. Rules were so strict that even Mr Ewell was able to beat his own daughter to find her with a black.
The themes that connect to this scene are the damage done by racism, Atticus confirm to the jury that Tom was innocent and can not take into account for their decision the color, or the appearance inside all has to be judged by the same. Atticus knew that sometimes the decision could be affected by racism. Being so strict social classes, Mayella wanted rid of her problem accusing a young man who only had helped her , but she also was afraid, she was also the victim, because his father was just as racist that many people in Maycomb, and never would allow for more poverty in which they lived that her daughter was involved with a black.
I agree with you karen. White people also suffered racism and we can see an example of this when Cal takes the children to her Church and Lula tells them to go to their own church. They also suffered from this but the ones that are most affected are the African-American.
“Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.” Page 269, chapter 20. In this scene Dolphus Raymond was telling Dill that he should cry for valuable or reasonable things instead of crying for stupid things. In my opinion I do agree with Dolphus but at the same time we have to remember that he’s just a kid and he doesn't really understand what is going on. Is also saying that everyone should be treated the same and not different. Discrimination is still a common thing especially now. I also think that white people feel superior than black people just because they have an advantage and more opportunities to do things than black people. In this scene the theme that goes with this one is the damage done by racism. White people in Maycomb were discriminating black people, making them feel worthless and they were very mean to the people that lived in that town. They also made them cry and feel bad and the point is that they cried for things that sometimes it wasn't worth crying for.
"...that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the
ReplyDeleteevil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral
beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber..." page 273. In this scene, Atticus makes his closing speech to the jury. He says that since Tom is black, the jury probably already made up their minds on whether or not Tom is guilty of raping Mayella. This relates to the theme that isn't justice for all under the law of the US. This is like the recent case of the white cop shooting the unarmed black man in Ferguson. He came to a conclusion too quickly which ended up costing a life and an outbreak of cops being killed because they where the badge.
I agree with you blog, Max. This is very similar to the situation in Ferguson. The jury came to a conclusion too quickly which led to an outbreak in society.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
Delete“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey—that’s why he won’t change his ways.” Page 268
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond gives Dill some of his coke, hidden in a paper bag, to settle his uneasy stomach. He tries to explain to the children why he pretends to be drinking alcohol in the bag when really it is just Coca-Cola. Mr. Dolphus doesn’t mind having a false reputation if it can help other people better accept his relationship with blacks.
I strongly disagree with the actions of Mr. Dolphus Raymond. He is very brave for willing to sacrifice his reputation, but I believe that he should publicly show his beliefs instead of making excuses. He should let people know that he has mixed children and enjoys the company of blacks because of their personalities, not because he is drunk and depressed. In my life, when I am at fault it is often easier to make excuses, but the better thing to do would be to tell the truth. A great man, Martin Luther King Jr., once said, “I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.” Growing up, I was told to never lie, and I think that you should voice your true opinions.
Themes that connect to this part of the text are the true definition of courage, the importance of home and family, and the damage done by racism. Mr. Dolphus Raymond shows the true definition of bravery for making himself appear drunk so that the other people of Maycomb County do not have to confront their prejudices and feel guilty. He makes himself an outcast to spare other peoples’ feelings. Although I do not agree with his choices, his actions reflect pure courage. The importance of home and family are shown because Mr. Dolphus Raymond has formed his own opinions about who he wants to associate himself with and has formed a family with a black woman. He has decided that he would rather be an outcast and live in the manner in which he pleases. Due to racism, he feels that the easiest way to live the way he wants is to misrepresent himself.
I disagree with you in the fact that he should let people know that his children are mixed. I think he should leave it up to his children whether or not they want people to know what race they are. In addition, I believe most of the town knows anyway.
DeleteI agree with you, Lilia. Although Raymond is right in his beliefs, he is wrong in his way of showing them. He should be openly defending Blacks, like Atticus does. Raymond may have a good heart, but he should not be making excuses for himself just because he is ashamed.
Delete“…confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the evil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber.” Page 273
ReplyDeleteIn this section of the text, Atticus is making his closing argument to the jury. He tells them he knows that they are racist and prejudice against blacks. Atticus knew that they would instinctively believe Mayella solely because of Tom’s race.
Prejudice continues to exist in our world today. At UCLA, a Jewish girl, Rachel Beyda, was nominated to be part of the Judicial Board. The council discussed her nomination and felt that she because she was Jewish, she would be biased and have divided loyalties. Her nomination was first rejected and then a faculty member pointed out that being Jewish isn’t a conflict of interest. The discussion of her nomination was recorded on video and caused a lot of discussion about the prejudice against Jews today. She was eventually accepted.
This article is about the Jewish girl at UCLA.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/06/us/debate-on-a-jewish-student-at-ucla.html
Themes that relate to this scene are the definition of courage, damage done by racism, and justice under the law in the United States. Atticus exhibits real courage when he tells the jury his opinion that their prejudice is causing them to not clearly evaluate the evidence. This is very brave and bold of Atticus since he knows everyone in the room and is criticizing the jury in public. The people’s racism is causing them to not see what the evidence proves. This works against Tom and for Mayella. Also, this displays that there is not justice for all under the law due to racism. Tom cannot get a fair trial because because these people have been raised to believe these things, and they are unable to put aside their prejudices and evaluate the evidence appropriately.
“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.”
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mr. Raymond explains how badly people treat each other for no reason. He especially emphasizes how badly African Americans are treated, just because of the color of their skin.
This kind of discrimination is only too widespread today. I try to live under “the golden rule.” This is that people should treat others the way they want to be treated. Today, people seem to forget this rule. They forget that others have the same feeling that they do. They forget that anybody has the ability to hurt another person. Mr. Raymond realizes this and realizes that people in Maycomb have forgotten each other’s feelings. People in Maycomb, and people today, both seem to forget that people are people, no matter how they look.
The tremendous amount of damage done by racism is a timeless and repeated theme both in this book and in the world today. Mr. Raymond says that people give each other hell. He says they don’t even think that they’re the same. They’re both people, but don’t seem to realize it. This constant battering has hurt everybody, black and white. It’s hard to constantly be getting hell as Mr. Raymond says, and nobody can live with it forever. It’s sickening that people treat each other this way. The damage done by others has hurt many people, especially African Americans. This is uncalled for and unremunerated. It must stop. (Pg. 269. Paragraph 3)
It's sad to think that whites in this book are able to treat blacks with such disrespect. It's amazing how Mr. Raymond is able to see through this negativity thrown as African-Americans and see that they're human beings, too.
Delete“She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.”
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus explains what actually happened to Tom and Mayella on the twenty first of November. He explains to the jury that Tom did nothing wrong, and that it was Mayella who had kissed Tom.
In our society today, it’s acceptable to marry somebody of another color. However, during the 1930’s in the South, where this book takes place it was “unspeakable.” Even today, although it’s still acceptable, there is still controversy among some people whether it should be done. In my opinion, I don’t think that anybody should have any input on whom one marries. It should be their own choice. I think it’s crazy that people’s marriage choices are defined by what color the other’s skin is. They should marry whoever they want. It’s absurd that people are tormented for the person they marry, especially if it’s because of how they look. All people should be treated the same.
This scene best relates to the theme that racism has done a lot of damage to many people. Not only has racism hurt those that are being discriminated, but it hurts those that are protecting and supporting people that are being discriminated. Many people in this time period were trying to defend the groups being discriminated. These people included Mr. Raymond. Unfortunately, they were thought of to be almost as low as those discriminated (for example, how Mr. Raymond was frowned upon by the rest of the town). During marches in the Martin Luther King Jr. era, white supporters of the civil rights movement were often treated badly, too. This page shows some history behind Martin Luther’s tactics and support: https://tavaana.org/en/content/martin-luther-king-jr-fighting-equal-rights-america-0
Atticus says that it is unspeakable that a white woman kissed a black man according to the town. This shows how lowly African Americans were thought of. Racism has caused them to not even be able to be with the people they love. This is a merciless punishment for a crime they never committed. (Pg. 272, Paragraph 3)
I agree with you. It is terrible that people cannot be with who they love due to racism. Also, the people who do believe both races are equal are considered just as low as the blacks. I think that many people believe that the blacks and whites are equal but are scared to show it. They do not want to be known as less than everybody else.
DeleteI agree with you Abby. I'm very thankful that times have changed since this time period, but it's sad to look back and reflect on how times used to be. It's awful to know how blacks and people who supported integration were shunned and frowned upon during the 1930's.
DeleteHi Abby, I liked your quote, because it really related to the time period and what the people believed was unacceptable. Another text-to-world connection that I think you could have brought up is the recent debates on legalizing gay marriage throughout the United States.
Delete“‘Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.’” Chapter 20 Page 269.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Scout and Dill are talking to Mr. Dolphus Raymond, and he tells Dill to shed his tears on things like the misery caused by racial tension among blacks and whites. He says that white people torment blacks, without any hesitations.
Today, bullying in school districts is a nationwide problem that has lead to a drastic increase in child suicide rates. Nowadays, suicide has become the third most common cause of death among adolescents, with nearly 4,400 deaths each year. In many ways, bullying can be considered an ‘epidemic.’ Often times, bullies are relentless causing extreme pain to others, just like white people would in the 1930s. Mr. Raymond refers to white people as being merciless and very unsympathetic in their actions toward African Americans and other minorities.
A theme that is depicted in this scene is the damage done by racism. White people were very inhumane in how they presented themselves and interacted with African Americans. They would behave like this with much indecision, and Mr. Raymond tells Dill that this is a worthy cause to cry about.
http://www.bullyingstatistics.org/content/bullying-and-suicide.html
I agree with you, Kathryn! Your text-to-world connection is definitely a problem we suffer from today. I also agree that white people are very unsympathetic and have imprudent actions towards African Americans. It's sad to know how suicide has become the third most common cause of death among teens in modern times, as well. This is certainly a worthy cause to cry about.
DeleteI agree with you too. Racial segregation in the '30s is bullying between adults. Bullying hasn't stopped, just evolved. Instead of adults, it is between children and racism is just another form of it.
Delete“...confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption—the evil assumption—that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption one associates with minds of their caliber…” Page 273
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is giving his closing statement. Atticus says that since Tom is black that the jury has made their decision long ago. Atticus says that society has set African Americans as these animals that only lie and are nothing but bad, but in reality they are not different from anyone else.
This scene relates to life from as far as I can remember. African Americans were set as animals and they are beneath us and how we are more important than them. I think that whoever first said this is the worst man in the world. This person has caused so many bad things in this world. He made us believe that based on the color of our skin, we should be treated as a different species almost.
This scene definitely has to deal with the theme damage done by racism. People, I think will never not be racist. They have their own opinion about different things and we cannot change their opinion if they truly believe in one thing. If we can’t change people's opinions, change your own.
I agree Tyler. I don't understand why anybody would think that someone is lesser because of their race. It truly is appalling.
DeleteI also believe that people will always judge and have their own opinions, and they are entitled to that but I believe its one thing to think a certain way about a person and another to act based off that thought.
Delete“ Cry about the simple hell people give other people-- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too. Middle of page 269
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dill and Scout are having a conversation with Mr. Raymond. Mr. Raymond tells Dill and Scout that they can cry about the hard times, insults and rudeness people give and say to each other. They can cry when white people are so rude, horrible and disgusting to African Americans. But, they do this without even thinking that everyones the same, that everyone is a person no matter what race. Everyone knows that Mr. Raymond likes being with the African Americans and that he also has half white and half black children, but he doesn't seem to care at all. But, he lets the kids know that they can be and get upset when someone treats someone else wrongly. The kids can also get upset when someone is very rude and obnoxious to someone who doesn’t deserve those rude actions.
I agree with Mr. Raymond’s statement he mentioned to Dill and Scout. It’s ok to get upset when something is wrong and should be fixed. it shows that you care and that you would have never done an action like that. Dill and Scout are sympathetic people. But, in this case Dill shows his sensitive side more that Scout does. When you become upset about something, you want to fix the problem and set it straight. This means that you care or in this case both Dill and Scout care.
This quote relates or connects to the theme of the damage done by racism and the true definition of courage. Through this quote Mr. Raymond shows how much racism has affected peoples lives. They are rude , hurtful and obnoxious to each other. Not only are people those things to themselves, they are twice the amount of hurtful, rude and obnoxious to African Americans. People forget that everyone is a person and just treat people that way for the sake of it. Which gives Mr. Raymond and Dill the thought that it is not right at all to treat someone, no matter what race so disrespectfully. But Dill show courage when he cries about how disrespectful Mr. Gilmer is to Tom Robinson. No one deserves to be treated like that, and Dill acknowledges that. He is courageous because he shows his true emotions and what he feels which is how people treat African Americans wrongly. While most people would just go along with being hurtful, while Dill would try to make the difference of being kind.
Dill was very confused on why Mr. Gilmer was so rude to Tom, but Atticus was not mean to Mr. Ewell or Mayella. Scout explained that Atticus is very respectful to everyone. Both children had every right to be upset at how Mr. Gilmer is treating Tom during court and I agree that it was truly courageous of Dill to show his feelings about what was going on.
DeleteI agree with you, Sarah. The people of Maycomb really need to learn that everyone should be treated equally. It does not matter where you come from, or what color your skin is. It really makes you wonder, why did this racist way of life start? Also Mr. Raymond is really an example of people judging someone before getting to know them. He really has great advice and it is something that the whole town of Maycomb should listen to.
DeleteI agree with you too Sarah. Everybody needs to treat each other equally and with respect. It shouldn't matter what ethnicity you are but that we can all come together and help one another.
Delete“She was white, and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man. Not an old Uncle, but a strong young Negro man. No code mattered to her before she broke it, but it came crashing down on her afterwards.” Pg. 272
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is giving his closing arguments to the jury about why Mayella may have lied in court.
In contrast to today, the viewpoint on interracial relationships is quite myopic. Nowadays, it is very common to see interracial couples on television, in movies, or in everyday life. Society is slowly becoming more comfortable with this integration. However, even thinking that races could intermingle, go to school together and share public spaces was inconceivable in Maycomb County during the 1930’s. It would be interesting to imagine the characters being a white man and a black woman. Would the outcome have been the same? Would the social mores be more nebulous?
The theme that connects to this scene is the damage done by racism. Even though Mayella is the one at fault, it is Tom who is on trial. It is assumed that since Mayella is white, her moral standards are higher and she could not possibly have succumbed to sexual desires, especially with a black man. However, it is presumed that Tom, since he is black, cannot control his desires and must have tempted Mayella. Not only is racism dictating that black people are socially and intellectually inferior, it is saying they are morally inferior as well.
Hi Maria, I agree with what you said about Maycomb not being able to even fathom the idea of races mixing in schools or public places. I believe that Maycomb as a whole is a very closed minded place that does not accept outsiders and their ideas. I feel like you could even say that the town doesn't believe in the word different, they want everything to seem picture perfect to anyone who doesn't live there.
Delete“Some folks don’t - like the way I live. Now I could say the hell with ‘em, I don’t care if they don’t like it, right enough - but I don’t say the hell with ‘em, see?”
ReplyDeleteDill and I said, “No sir.”
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, that’s why he lives the way he does.” page 268
In chapter 20, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout about why he lives the way he does. He says that he pretends to be drunk so people believe that’s why he sits with the colored people and has biracial children. If they knew that he chose to live his life that way, then they probably wouldn’t understand why and look at him as even more of an outsider.
In almost every school today, many students hide behind a mask or an excuse to act the way they do, because they just want to fit in with everybody else. Some students think that if they acted like themselves, people would treat them differently and not accept them anymore. They use their mask to fit in and go unnoticed by their peers to feel secure. This is like Mr. Raymond’s situation, because he would never be accepted if people knew the truth. The theme that connects to the text is the damage done by racism. The people of Maycomb believe that for Mr. Raymond to have biracial children, there must be something wrong with him. They can’t accept that he prefers that kind of lifestyle. I wonder what would happen if Mr. Raymond came out and told the people that he was not a drinker and that he chose this way. Maycomb would probably shut him out for his decision, because they are all so close minded about any other values and ideas.
Although I understand why Mr. Raymond has chosen to disguise his motives for preferring to live with African Americans, it would be braver to tell his true reasons to the town. He could encourage others to think about his choice and perhaps change their views. By being honest with the townspeople, could he help the black community even more?
DeleteI agree with you Lilia I think he could of made a real impact on the town if he spoke up and shared his reasoning. By acting the way he does the people in the town believe him to simply be a drunk man. However, the deeper thoughts that he has and the reasoning behind his actions could possibly bring new beliefs into the town.
Delete“‘Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.’” Page 269.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to the children about his way of life. He says that white people and black people should be treated the same. No matter what their differences are. He says that white people don’t even think about what they are saying to these people. When they should be treated the same as everyone else.
Discrimination like this, is still very common today. People who are racist tend to think that they are better than someone because of their race. They think that they are superior to others when the only real difference is the color of their skin. The other day I saw an article online about how racism has an effect in our community and the world around us. It really makes you wonder, why have we not yet moved past these race issues. They are holding back our society from moving forward and we should all learn to accept one another for who we really are.
http://www.globalissues.org/article/165/racism
This scene connects with the theme of the damage done by racism. The white people in Maycomb were very rude and horrible to the African American people of the town. They discriminated against them and separated themselves entirely from these people. All because they are a different skin color. The white people treat them as if they are not even human. Mr. Raymond makes it clear that “They’re people too” and that they should be treated just the same.
“She was white and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.” page 272
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is explaining to the court what happened between Tom Robinson and Mayella Ewell on November 21st. He says that Tom did not rape Mayella. Infact, Mayella forced Tom inside and then began to kiss him. This was her fault, not Toms.
What I find disturbing is that many people in To Kill a Mockingbird are not able to be together due to their skin color. In our society today, it is more difficult to be homosexual than black. Even though racism still occurs, it has declined tremendously and people today are allowed to marry those of a different race. People in our world believe that homosexuality is wrong and that it should be illegal to marry someone of your same sex. I believe that this is completely incorrect. In my opinion, everyone should be allowed to be with whoever they want regardless of their gender, race or ethnicity. This relates to what happens with Mayella and Tom in this scene. Mayella Ewell, a white girl, kisses a black man and when her father finds out he is furious. Other people in the courtroom are disgusted by this as well when they first hear it.
The theme that this scene best represents is the damage done by racism. Bob Ewell gets angry when he sees Mayella kissing Tom, especially because Tom is a black man. Atticus says that in Maycomb county it is extremely uncommon for a white woman to kiss a black man. Atticus then states that he believes that both races, black and white, should be treated equally. I agree with Atticus because both races are similar yet they are taught to dislike each other for no reason.
I agree with Cassidy completely. It’s a really good connection that today how people are discriminating against people who are homosexual and how in this book people discriminate against different races. It’s horrible how people treat people that aren’t like themselves. It’s scary thinking that racism still plays a big role in society.
Delete"'… in the cynical confidence that their testimony would not be doubted, confident that you gentlemen would go along with them on the assumption – the evil assumption – that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negro men are not to be trusted around our women, and assumption one associates with minds of their caliber.'" (Page 273)
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is talking to the jury. He is giving his final statement on the trial and why the jury should decide that Tom Robinson is innocent.
I strongly agree with what Atticus says on this page and the next two pages. For a long time, white people had this view of what they saw in African-Americans. Like Atticus says, they thought of African-Americans as people who solely cause trouble. Even today some people still think this way today. At the University of Oklahoma, students were singing a racist chant that included the lyrics "You can hang them from a tree but they'll never sign with me. There'll never be a * at SAE." (http://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/03/09/lv-banfield-sae-racist-bus-song.cnn) This chant has been found to have originated years ago, which is disheartening to hear about in this day and age.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. The views on African-Americans of parents mainly in the south during the 1930s influenced their children to think the same way. This pattern continued from parent to child which is sadly still seen in people today. The University of Oklahoma is in the south, which is why this may be the reason behind this behavior from these students.
“He’s just gone over the evidence,” Jem whispered, “and we’re gonna win, Scout. I don’t see how we can’t. He’s been at it ’bout five minutes. He made it plain and easy as- well, as I’da explained it to you. You could’ve understood it even.” Page 270.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Jem is filling in Scout as to what she missed while outside the courthouse with Dill. He explains that Atticus has it in the bag and it was very easy to understand.
I strongly agree with Jem’s opinion that this case is all but closed and that Atticus has it in the bag. The prosecution has no strong evidence and their only evidence at all is the word of two very unreliable sources in Mayella and Bob Ewell. This case shouldn’t even be in court, but it is simply because Tom Robinson is black. An example of modern day racism with the legal system is the Ferguson, Missouri case. As far as we know, a young black man was shot and killed for no acceptable reason.
The theme that connects to this scene is, is there really justice for all under the law in the United States. Cleary, based on the Tom Robinson case, the answer is no. The prosecution seems to be using the fact that Tom is black as acceptable and legitimate evidence in the case, and even worse, society in Maycomb seems to be buying it.
I agree. The only reason this case is in court is because of Tom's race. The case has no real evidence but only two not trust worthy sources. Jem is right to think that his father won the case because Atticus presents multiple facts and you cant lie about facts.
Delete“She was white, and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man. Not an old Uncle, but a strong young Negro man. No code mattered to her before she broke it, but it came crashing down on her afterwards.” Page 272.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Tom is giving his closing argument to the jury. He is saying that Tom Robinson did nothing wrong and that he never raped Mayella. He is claiming that Mayella kissed him and was too ashamed to own up to her actions so made up a story about Tom Robinson which could ruin his life.
I find it so disturbing that a young girl like Mayella would make up these lies just to cover up that she kissed a black man. Society had laid out paths for each individual based on their race and family background and if you didn’t follow them, there was something wrong with you. Tom Robinson had only done good things for Mayella and she still was able to ruin his life by accusing him of rape all because of society’s expectations.
This scene really connects to the theme of the damage caused by racism. If what Atticus is saying is really true, then Mayella is going to crazy extremes to cover up that she kissed a black man. The town believes that white people are superior and no one in their right mind could have any desire towards a black man. So to cover up what she did, she is risking Tom Robinsons life which shows how much she cares what racist people think of her.
“Some folks don’t - like the way I live. Now I could say the hell with ‘em, I don’t care if they don’t like it, right enough - but I don’t say the hell with ‘em, see?”
ReplyDeleteDill and I said, “No sir.”
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, that’s why he lives the way he does.” page 268
In this scene in chapter 20, Mr. Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout why he lives the way he does. He tells them that he pretends to be drunk so people that people will believe that’s the reason why he sits with the colored people and has children of a different race. If the people in the community knew that he chose to live his life that way, then they wouldn't like him as much and look at him as even more of an outsider. Also ostracize him from many things.
Pretty much in every school in today’s society, students tend to hide behind a mask or have an excuse to act the way they do,whether its good or bad because they just want to fit in with everybody else. The theme that is strongly relates to this is the importance of home and family. Many people think that if they act like themselves than other people won't like who they really are. Some people may do drugs or something that can bring great shame and disappointment to their family.
I agree with the metaphor of the mask and believe we all act a certain way so we aren't judged and looked upon as strange.
DeleteCHAPTER 20
ReplyDelete“She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I cannot pity her: she is white. She knew full well the enormity of her offense, but because her desires were stronger than the code she was breaking, she persisted in breaking it.” pg. 272
In this scene, Atticus id explain that Mayella was lying when said that she was beat by Tom. But, she is a white woman who persisted on braking the law no matter what happen just to stay out of trouble. Mayella knew that she was the one who tempted Tom, a strong young Negro man, to kiss her.
I wonder why Mayella and people today only think about themselves instead of follow the laws. As I watch the news, I notice that more trials are won by whites and the guilty are colored people. I know that most of the time the criminals are African Americans but some of them commit a crime because they are resentful of all damage and discrimination done to them.
There are two themes that connect to this scene: The damage done by racism and really justice for all under the law. It is an enormous injustice to have Tom Robinson on trial and pre-convicted for something he didn't do. But Mayella is also a victim of injustice: kept ignorant, raped by her father, and forbidden to seek companionship from the one person who was ever nice to her. The laws are not that fair, it is more like who has the better lawyer, more amount of money or in the rest of the cases if it is white or colored.
I agree with you Camila. We can't judge people based on their skin color or make them guilty of something just because of how they look. Mayella Ewells is following her fathers orders. It is easy for them to make Tom Robienson look guilty because he is black and they know that just for being black he cannot win the trial.
DeleteI completely agree with your connections and you made very valid points. I also firmly agree that it is an injustice to have Tom Robinson on trial and the fact that he can go to jail for a long time just because of a white mans word against his, really bothers me.
Delete"... That all Negroes lie, that all negroes are basically immoral beings, that all negro men are not to be trusted around our women, an assumption are associates with minds of their caliber." Chapter 20, pages 273
ReplyDeleteIn these scene, Atticus is closing a statement at Tom Robinson's rape trial. He is referring to the fact that just for being black it means that they are bad people. Atticus is trying to get them to realize that this is not true. All black men do not lie.
I thinks that in one hand Atticus is totally right. We need to judge people as individuals rather than by their race. No argument here. On the other hand, Atticus calls the lies stereotypes "as black as Tom Robinson's skin. Once more associating the evil with the black people. Although in a more figurative way.
The theme that connects with this scene is damage done by racism. Atticus goes on to say that all black men are just like white men. There are some good, and some bad. It is a lie to suggest that all black men are bad, or that all white men are good. He wants the jury to see Tom Robinson for more than his skin color, and realize that he is innocent and acquit him.
“Cry about the simple hell people give other people - without even thinking . Cry about the hell white people give colored folks , without even stopping to think that they’re people too .” Pg 269
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dolphus Raymond was telling Dill good reasons to cry , and no to cry for dumb things .
I agree with Dolphus but I also have to keep in mind that Dill is only a kid so of course he won’t understand as much. I also disagree with Dolphus because crying is a way of expressing what one feels about something . In this case Dill was crying because he didn’t like the way Mr.Gilmer was talking to Tom Robinson. This is because he didn’t like the way he kept on saying “ Boy” to Tom. But I think what Dolphus is trying to say is that this is something that has been occurring for a long time and it’s not new.
This scene connects to the damage done by racism. This is because people tend to forget that just because they’re another color doesn’t mean that don’t have feelings. People just feel that if someone is different they are able to make them feel less.Also that many people cry for simple things other than things that are actually worth crying for .
ReplyDelete“The state has not produced one iota of medical evidence to the effect that the crime Tom Robinson is charged with ever took place.” Chapter 20 page 271
In this text Atticus is addressing the jury. He is reinforcing the idea that the jury should find Tom innocent. Atticus fought a hard fight relying on evidence fully knowing that a verdict may be decided on opinion rather than fact.
A text to theme connection is that of truth. We use the expression ‘the truth will set you free”, but is that really the case? Tom Robinson told the truth but might not be set free. He is judged on the color of his skin and not his story. I wonder If this could still happen today. I believe it might which makes us realize that society has to continue to fight against racism.
You thought very deeply about your text to theme paragraph. Tom Robinson is more truthful than the Ewell, but racism prevents prevents Tom Robinskn from "being set free." I constantly wonder if it is possible to live life as if we were all colorblind.
DeleteI believe we live in a society where even though you tell the truth you aren't always found innocent among others and that idea not only bothers me but also frightens me.
Delete"Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too." Top of Page 269.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Mr. Dolphus Raymond is explaining to Dill and Scout about how he lives, what he thinks about, and cares for in his life. He believes whites and blacks should be treated as equals despite the color of their skin. Many of the whites in Maycomb grew up in a racist society. When they grow up like this, they are unaware of how discriminative and hurtful they are to the blacks.
Racism and discrimination continues to be a re occurring issue in our world today. It is commonly used to keep people from rising to their true potential, or to make others feel lesser of themselves. When people feel vulnerable or inferior to the rest, they are inclined to say things that are hurtful, or condescending. By doing this, it gives them an illusion of power where they can be easily resented. We need to learn to see without color, and judge each other on the merits of what people are like.
The theme that connects to this scene is damage done by racism. The whites are constantly racists towards the blacks causing fear and tension between the two. It seems as if the blacks want peace, and to be seen as equals and capable as the whites. If this is accomplished, it gives us all a chance to achieve the success that we are all destined for.
That is a good point Javen. Racism is still a big problem, even though it was "abolished" after the movements of Martin Luther King Jr. There is a good connection between the point of racism, and the damage done by racism.
DeleteVery true! Even though slavery was abolished, almost 100 years later MLK still had to fight for rights. This shows how we have made very little progress, but every little step counts!
Delete“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.” Chapter 20 Page 269.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene of the story Scout and Dill are talking to Mr. Dolphus Raymond. He is explaining to the children how white people treated the colored folks poorly because in their society they are taught they they are not equals.
I strongly agree with what Mr. Dolphus Raymond is saying. At this time in history white people would treat colored people without respect and not even realize what the are doing. Scout who has been taught differently from her father still continues to see while and colored people as unequal. It is a shame that people’s views were like this and it took many, many years of segregation issues to come closer to finding a solution to this ongoing issue. It is disturbing to me that in this point in history there have still been issues and situations in which white and colored people are not treated equally.
This scene in the story shows the damages done by racism. White people at this time period did not respect colored people. Mr. Raymond points out the heel that white people give to black people. He does not understand how all people are the same in so many ways, but are treated so vastly different.
“She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I cannot pity her: she is white. She knew full well the enormity of her offense, but because her desires were stronger than the code she was breaking, she persisted in breaking it.” Page 272.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus was talking about how he knew Mayella was lying and that it was Mayella that tempted Tom into it. Because she was white, she was thought of as the bigger person, considering the time frame that the story took place.
I agree with Atticus, and I can personally connect to the situation that he was talking about. When I was younger, there was a conflict that went on between two of my friends, and everyone took one friends side because he was the "more innocent one", even though the other friend was telling the truth in the first place. This can still happen in the real world, where the minority, in this case, can be looked down upon even though they can still be telling the truth.
This connects to the theme of damage done by racism, because even though Atticus thought that Mayella was lying about the situation, Tom Robinson was telling the truth, in the point of view of Atticus.
"Cry about the simple hell people give other people without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.”
ReplyDeletepage 269
This is a scene when Mr Dolphus Raymond is having conversation with children. he tells that when they can cry and he wants white and black people to be equal.
Today, we still have a racism problem in our world. Many racist people think that they are better and have more power than other’s just because of their race, and it is continues to be a huge problem in our society. People who are racist don’t think before they say something to other’s and don’t think how do the opposite person is feeling. We should accept the way people lives, respect them and we are same human so there shouldn’t be any discriminate between race.
This scene relate to the theme of damage done by racism. The white people in 1930s have been racist and disrespectful people and so do people in Maycomb.
They separate because of their skin color and people think if they have different race they have right to do what ever they want and I think that is wrong. We should be equal no matter what race we have.
Mr. Dolphus does not want to sympathise with the hatred of black people in Maycomb. He just want to live an innocent life with his family. He does not care about what other people might think about him.
Delete"... absence of any corroborative evidence, this man was indicted on a capital charge and is now on trial for his life. . . .”p.270
ReplyDeleteThis is a scene in the book where one explains how Tom Robinson is simply accused of something so extreme with no evidence, and is now at court for something so ridiculous.
This scene resembles the theme of justice under U.S. Law because clearly, back then, there wasn’t much. Back then, trials were clouded by judgement, and racism was factored in to all decisions, which is unacceptable and very disconcerting. Now, evidence must be extremely clear and valid to prove someone guilty, and there must be no bias in the matter whatsoever.
I have never appreciated being accused of doing something wrong when there was no evidence that I did it, especially when it wasn’t me. For example, whenever there is a mess in the kitchen, my mother always assumes that I am the one who made the mess, however, it is usually my brother. My mother will yell at me and tell me to clean up even though there’s no evidence that it was me! It is not fair, and even though this is nowhere near as extreme as what Tom had gone through, I still have a certain sense or taste of what he was going through.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/alan-m-dershowitz-a-nightmare-of-false-accusation-that-could-happen-to-you-1421280860
This article does a wonderful job of explaining how horrifying Tom’s experience in court must be. Even though it may be hard to believe, there are many different cases where a man was falsely accused of something so that the other party could benefit from the lawsuit, for example, a man was accused of murder, lost the trial, and went to jail for life. Fifty years later, proof was discovered proving that the man had been innocent all along. How tragic must that’ve been!
“Atticus says cheatin’ a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin’ a white man,” I muttered. “Says it’s the worst thing you can do.” Page 269
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Scout is talking to Mr. Raymond. He, like Atticus, supports the giving African- Americans more rights. He previously stated that they should cry about the hell white people give the colored. He says they are humans too.
Atticus says this to his kids because he knows that it is a horribly true thought. He knows that if you cheat over a colored man it is very hard for them to plead their case. For example, look at the trial of Tom Robinson. It seems that the evidence is there, but in this setting, the word of a white man is stronger than the word of a colored man. This has changed drastically since the Great Depression. Look at our President! Just having a colored man as our leader shows the progress we have made since the Great Depression.
This scene relates to two themes, “the damage done by racism,” and “the importance of family.” Without such a strong connection and intelligent father, Scout and Jem might have turned out like any other child in Maycomb. Atticus teaches them such great life lessons, that lead them away from the mainstream ideas that lead to oppression. He shows them that even though both races are all human, the skin of the man with make his word either stronger or weaker than the other’s.
ReplyDelete“Which, gentlemen, we know is in itself a lie as black as Tom Robinson’s skin, a lie I do not have to point out to you. You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men are not to be trusted around women—black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men. There is not a person in this courtroom who has never told a lie, who has never done an immoral thing, and there is no man living who has never looked upon a woman without desire.” Page 273
This scene is when Atticus does a speech to the courthouse about Tom. Atticus tells that everyone has lied in their lifetime and every person has lied once in their lifetime.
Even though the racism now has gotten better than the racism during the great depression, sadly there are reasons why a black man is more likely to be accused for crime than a white man. It may be clothing or manners, but both black and white men are humans that make errors. No one race is perfect in a way. The diverse cultures make us what we are now.
The theme in this quote is the damage done by racism. But, right now not only black people but many other races are discriminated, even their own race. I believe that culturally converging is very important for our lives right now.
“She was white and she tempted a Negro. She did something that in our society is unspeakable: she kissed a black man.” page 272 Chapter 20
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is describing what happened between Mayella and Tom Robinson. He is explaining that Tom did not rape Mayella and that Bob Ewelle hurt his daughter Mayella because he found out that her and Tom kissed.
I strongly disagree with how Bob handled the situation. He should never abuse anyone under any circumstance, especially his daughter. If his daughter was happy and wanted to be with Tom he should accept it and not abuse her, then blame Tom. Our world has come to accept two different races getting married. In certain countries, marrying outside of your religion is extremely frowned upon. Today, most Muslims are still not supposed to marry someone outside of their religion.
This relates to damage done by racism. Bob Ewell is so prejudice against black people that he will not let his own daughter be with Tom. He will do anything to stop her from seeing him just because of his race. Bob goes to court and accuses Tom of raping his daughter so he will not be able to see his daughter anymore.
"Atticus says cheatin' a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin' a white man.. Atticus says it's the worse thing you can do" page 269
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Atticus is specifically referring to people like Bob Ewell, who knew that if he accused a black man of rape, that man would be convicted, just because of racism and discrimination that exists.
I think If he were to accuse a white man of rape, the odds would be more "equal" than they were in Tom's case. Bob knew that Tom being black would guarantee Tom's verdict of guilt; he took advantage of a man's race to do serious evil.
One theme that connects to this text is the damage done by racism. If Tom Robinson was white, Mayella and Bob Ewell would not have lied as they did and also if he as white he would be treat more equal. Tom is a clear example of racism, just because he is different in color to others.
“You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men are not to be trusted around women- black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men. There is not a person in this courtroom who has never told a lie, who has never done an immoral thing, and there is no man living who has never looked upon a women without desire.” - Page 273
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Atticus is no longer questioning the defendant, Tom Robinson, and is now giving a speech about equality. He is stating in the above quote that black people are no different from white people in the sense that a persons race doesn’t dictate their actions. Just because Tom Robinson is black doesn’t mean he committed the crime he is being accused off.
I find this scene to be a very brave scene in which Atticus stands up for not only Tom Robinson but the whole black community. As a white person it is not viewed as right upon many to not be associated with the black community and by Atticus defending them it was something very courageous in my point of view. People like Atticus who stand up for equal rights and try to stop stereotypes are seen in our society today. In the following link there is a video of a woman who makes racist comments towards another woman who has done nothing to bother her and the people around, although they do not know her stand up to her.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/02/australian-woman-racist-tirade-train_n_5551988.html (contains explicit language)
This scene relates to the theme of the damage done by racism. In this scene Atticus is stating the obvious that Mr. Robinson is being accused because of his race. He is stating the damage done by racism and is saying anything done by a black man can be done by a white man. He is stating a persons race does not entitle them to be bad people.
“Cry about the simple hell people give other people-without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.” Chapter 20, Page 269
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dill and Scout bump into Mr. Raymond. Mr. Raymond gives Dill Coca-Cola and they start talking about how some people dislike the way he lives and how he does not care what others think. Mr. Raymond then goes on to say how once Dill gets a little older he will not cry ever even when things seem a little off, he will notice but never cry. Dill snaps and responds by opening up about how he feels on the treatment of African Americans.
I feel that it is great Dill is able to realize how terribly African American people were treated back in the 1930’s. Not many adults could realize this let alone a young boy. This goes to show how all kids grow up at one point and realize humans are sometimes not good but very bad. Dill exclaims his frustration with the way people treat each other. I can connect to how Dill feels about how humans treat other humans when I see people getting bullied. It is something that happens in every town, just like racism did in the 1930’s. Whenever I see someone getting bullied it really frustrates me. I feel how Dill does and just want to let it all out like he did with Mr. Raymond.
This quote can connect to the theme, the damage done by racism. The fact that a young boy who should be focused on school and sports is exclaiming his frustration with racism and the way people treat each other shows that it was really bad. A young boy’s childhood has gone to waste because of it. Racism doesn’t just affect the people who are targeted it also affects the people around it like Dill. It affected him in a positive way though. He was able to see it and realize how bad it is, which it was it’s just that most people did not realize it. If Dill were not the only one to think like that and everyone could the world would be a much better place.
“I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. . . Folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey-- that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself, thats why he lives the way he does. . . You see that they could never, never understand that I live like I do because thats the way I want to live.” p268
ReplyDeleteDolphus Raymond is explaining to Scout and Dill why he pretends to be a drunk when he really only drinks Coca-Cola in his bottle.
Mr Dolphus Raymond is a man who is not afraid to have a terrible his reputation in order to keep what he holds dear to him. He would be judged and would be an outsider, if he revealed the reason for why he is with a black woman. Raymond does not care what the people of Maycomb think of him, because he knows what he loves. He knows what he cares about. Raymond is a different kind of brave, but he is brave nonetheless. In that way he reminds me of my dad. My dad cannot be embarrassed, shamed, or humiliated, because he knows what matters to him.
This scene connects to the theme of the damage done by racism. Mr. Raymond is forced into hiding his true beliefs because of a racist society that would judge him and not accept him. In a perfect world, no one would be judged for who they are and what they believe, but even today that is not the case. There will always be prejudice, and those who stand against it.
I agree, Mr. Dolphus does not care one bit about what people think and say about him. They just think of him as a man that makes mixed race children and drinks lots of alcohol. I really like Mr. Dolphus, especially how he is white but sits with the blacks and does not care if his reputation is ruined
Delete“Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too.” Page 269
ReplyDeleteThe amount of racism in this book is astounding. This quote profoundly explains that. It talks about everything that is wrong with the Tom Robinson case, the fact that there is no evidence. Tom was just at the wrong place at the wrong time. The people of Maycomb have become numb to the hurt and suffering that they are causing the black community. It makes me sad to think that racism was a typical American mindset less than a century ago. We have developed so much, but have still a long way to go. This can relate to the LGBT civil rights discussion that is going on today. There is no reason whatsoever that a man and a man or a woman and a woman cannot marry. It just astounds me that we have gone so far, but are still so ignorant.
This quote can connect to the theme of racism, and the damage it causes. This case has hurt so many people, and will hurt more if Tom gets the death penalty. He has not done anything criminally wrong, and today would not be convicted of anything.
“‘I try to give ‘em a reason, you see. It helps folks if they can latch onto a reason. When I come to town, which is seldom, if I weave a little and drink out of this sack, folks can say Dolphus Raymond’s in the clutches of whiskey, - that’s why he won’t change his ways. He can’t help himself. That’s why he lives the way he does.”
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Dolphus Raymond is explaining the reason why he pretends to be constantly drinking alcohol. He explains that he does so to give whites a reason why he acts so “abnormally,” because they won’t understand without a reason why he associates with blacks.
It’s amazing to me that Dolphus would go this far to give whites a reason for his actions, but it’s necessary in the racist society they live in. If I was him, I would give into peer pressure and follow the crowd. I wouldn’t disrespect African-Americans, but I wouldn’t go against whites by only associating with them either. I would rather be accepted in the community than have to create a worse image of myself by making up a reason explaining why I act the way I act.
This scene can connect to the theme of damage done by racism. The fact that Dolphus Raymond has to pretend to be a heavy drinker just so that whites can have a reason as to why he associates with blacks is abhorrent. If whites were to except that blacks are people too, what Dolphus is doing wouldn’t be seen as an abnormality.
“'He’s just gone over the evidence,' Jem whispered, 'and we’re gonna win, Scout. I don’t see how we can’t. He’s been at it ’bout five minutes. He made it plain and easy as- well, as I’da explained it to you. You could’ve understood it even.'” page 270.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene, Jem tells Scout that while she was playing in the courtyard with Dill, Atticus had sealed the case and it's a sure win.
I agree with Jem's opinion about his father's work. The prosecutor's only evidence is very unreliable, from the tag team of Mayella and Bob. The only reason why this case is in court is because Tom is black. Even though Tom is black, there are reliable resources at all that show Tom had anything to do with the beating of Mayella. This court case is very similar to the court case in Ferguson. The only reason why there was a trial was because a young black man was shot and killed.
The theme that relates to this scene is the question: is there really justice for all under the law in the United States? With the evidence in the court case provided, no there is no justice for all. The only reason there is a court case is because Tom is black, that is the only reason why there is a trial.
I agree Magnus. It is disappointing to think that the only reason that they are there is because Tom is black. If he is white there would most likely not be atrial.
Deletea trail
Delete“But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of man. There is not a person in this courtroom who has not told a lie.”
ReplyDeleteDuring his closing statements Atticus is telling the court and the jury that all people are equal.
If I was on the jury, I would see the message in Atticus’s statement. People say “You’re a liar.” everyday. People often forget that everyone lies. Lying is a unifying factor that does not take skin color into consideration. Mayella and Bob are hiding behind their skin color to protect themselves and hope Tom’s is enough to make him guilty.
The theme demonstrated by this quote is the true definition of courage. Atticus showed courage by voicing an unpopular opinion because he knew what was right. He wanted to show people that no matter what race a person is they can make mistakes.
“ Cry about the simple hell people give other people-- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people, too” ( top of page 269)
ReplyDeleteIn this section Scout and Dill left the courtroom and went outside because Dill started crying because he was so upset about the way the Mr. Gilmer was talking to Tom. Out there they started talking to Mr. Dolphus.
I agree with how Mr. Dolphus feels about what is going on. Back then the white community was not treating blacks like they were equal. They were considered less that or, in Mr. Dolphus’ words, they were not treating them like they were people. In an article I read it said, when the topic of race comes up, most people say, “I don't see color.” In my opinion that must not really be the case with everyone because today there is still a lot of racism. If people say they don't see color than no one should believe that their race is superior to another. We should all see ourselves equally. ( The article is linked below)
http://www.cnn.com/2014/11/26/us/ferguson-racism-or-racial-bias/
This sections shows the theme, the damage done by racism. Blacks were not looked at as equals back then. In Maycomb all they saw was color. What I find crazy is that you were judged not by your character and who you were as a person but based on the color of your skin. You were not thought of as equal if you had skin that was darker than what they thought to be, “normal.”
Chapter 20:
ReplyDelete“Atticus says cheatin’ a colored man is ten times worse than cheatin’ a white man,” I muttered. “Says it’s the worst thing you can do.” Page 269
In this scene, Scout is having a conversation with Mr.Raymond. Both of them support rights for black people. Just before he says that they should cry about the hell the white people give the colored.
Atticus knows that it is very hard for a black man to plead his case. I think that Mr.Ewell knew that Tom being black would help him win his case. He most certainly took advantage of Tom and I that is just awful. No one should take advantage of anyone regardless of the race.
I think that this scene relates to the importance of home and family. Atticus is a great father to Jem and Scout and teaches them many important and valuable life lessons. Atticus is really teaching Jem and Scout how to become good people and he is leading them on a good path in life. The three of them share a very special bond and I think it has a big deal with Atticus’ role in the family.
“She has committed no crime, she has merely broken a rigid and time-honored code of our society, a code so severe that whoever breaks it is hounded from our midst as unfit to live with . She is the victim of cruel poverty and ignorance, but I can not pity: she is white.” Pg: 272 L:1
ReplyDeleteAtticus was giving his final testimony before the jury make the final decision when loosened his tie and vest bag, then he started to saying that the lack of evidence clearly before, show the innocence of Tom Robinson, and neither was guilty Mayella. But he also said that someone in the room was guilty and it would not be Tom Robinson.
During this historical period we could see that racism also affected white people . That means that the codes were so strict that if a person could be associated with a black man could be totally excluded from the city. Like Mr. Raymond. As we had seen before white people also existed between classes and anyone could be relationated with a black. Rules were so strict that even Mr Ewell was able to beat his own daughter to find her with a black.
The themes that connect to this scene are the damage done by racism, Atticus confirm to the jury that Tom was innocent and can not take into account for their decision the color, or the appearance inside all has to be judged by the same. Atticus knew that sometimes the decision could be affected by racism. Being so strict social classes, Mayella wanted rid of her problem accusing a young man who only had helped her , but she also was afraid, she was also the victim, because his father was just as racist that many people in Maycomb, and never would allow for more poverty in which they lived that her daughter was involved with a black.
I agree with you karen. White people also suffered racism and we can see an example of this when Cal takes the children to her Church and Lula tells them to go to their own church. They also suffered from this but the ones that are most affected are the African-American.
Delete“Cry about the simple hell people give other people- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they’re people too.” Page 269, chapter 20.
ReplyDeleteIn this scene Dolphus Raymond was telling Dill that he should cry for valuable or reasonable things instead of crying for stupid things.
In my opinion I do agree with Dolphus but at the same time we have to remember that he’s just a kid and he doesn't really understand what is going on. Is also saying that everyone should be treated the same and not different. Discrimination is still a common thing especially now. I also think that white people feel superior than black people just because they have an advantage and more opportunities to do things than black people.
In this scene the theme that goes with this one is the damage done by racism. White people in Maycomb were discriminating black people, making them feel worthless and they were very mean to the people that lived in that town. They also made them cry and feel bad and the point is that they cried for things that sometimes it wasn't worth crying for.