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Chapter 22-23: Reflections and Reactions

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Chapter 22-23: Reflections and Reactions

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

# data[].attributes.body
What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

# data[].attributes.body
What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

# data[].attributes.body
What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

# data[].attributes.body
What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

# data[].attributes.body
What main theme is portrayed?

When is it shown?

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Identify two quotes that emphasize your idea.

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The Trial Begins

In this chapter the trial begins. Jem and Scout sneak inside the courtroom to watch the trial, even though Atticus forbid them. They make their way towards the colored balcony, where black people instantly gave up their seats in order for them to sit down. All around the court white and colored people were sitting down, however, when a white person wanted to sit down colored folks instantly had to give up their seats. "Reverend Sykes came puffing behind us, and steered us gently through the black people in the balcony. Four Negroes rose and gave us their front-row seats."

The author conveys racism and injustice through segregation like the one mentioned earlier. “But around here once you have a drop of Negro blood, that makes you all black.”

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Heck Tate and Bob Ewell Testify

In this chapter Heck Tate and Bob Ewell testify, accusing Tom Robinson of raping and beating up Mayella Ewell. Atticus reveals flaws in their story, specifically how they never asked for medical help and how Mayella was beaten on the right side of her face. “Did you call a doctor, Sheriff? Did anybody call a doctor?”. The author conveys justice through Atticus, trying to follow the law and make the truth come out.

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In this chapter atticus starts to question mayella and as she starts to explain the events eveything seems kind of skechy. As if she couldnt say what acutally happened. At the end she cant continue taking because she coudnt stop crying This also shows how her family bonds work. In his house she was no value no one cares about her. Shes just being used.

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In this chapter Tom tells his side of the events. Explaning how he always went to help her beacuse he felt sorry for mayella. He also says that it was acutally Mayella the one who tried to take advantage of him. This shows the empathy and inocence of Tom always helping a white woman.

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Main events

In chapter 12 Atticus leaves for the state legislature for two weeks, leaving Jem and Scout under Calpurnia’s care.Calpurnia takes Jem and Scout to her African American church.Scout and Jem experience racism from within the Black community,Lula, a church member, criticizes Calpurnia for bringing white children.They witness how the African American community worships, which is different but deeply respectful and communal.The children learn about Tom Robinson’s family and the struggles the Black community faces.

Theme

Segregation is the main theme in chapter 12 , This theme is shown through the separation between Black and white communities in Maycomb. This is clear when Scout and Jem visit Calpurnia’s church, which is old, poor, and used by white people for gambling during the week. The church has no hymn books, and most members cannot read, so they use lining to sing. These details show how the Black community has fewer resources and is treated with less respect.

When it is shown?

Segregation is shown when Lula confronts Calpurnia for bringing white children into a Black church. The church itself is also very poor.Scout also notices that Calpurnia speaks differently at church than at home, which shows how she must change how she acts in white spaces to fit in.

How does Harper Lee conveys it?

Harper Lee conveys the theme of segregation by using contrast and perspective, this is shown through Scout’s innocence point of view, the reader sees how unfair the separation is. She uses contrast between the Black and white churches to show the difference in how people are treated based on race. Calpurnia’s ability to live in both worlds also shows how people like her must constantly adjust to survive in a divided society.

Two quotes to emphasize my idea

“You ain’t got no business bringing ’ white children here,they got their church, we got our.”

Explanation

This quote directly shows segregation within the church community. Lula expresses anger that white children are entering a Black church, highlighting how both races have separate places of worship, even in a setting like church.

“That church has no hymn books,” Calpurnia said, “We don’t have any money for books, and even if we did, we couldn’t read them.”

Explanation

This reveals economic and educational segregation. The Black community not only lacks resources like books, but also suffers from systemic educational inequality, a result of the racially segregated society of Maycomb.

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An example of this main theme(family bonds) is when mayella says: "He does tollable'cept when -". This is said when Aticcus asks her if her father was easy to get along with and mayella starts to answer when she sees her father and stops. She then said:"exept when nothing, I said he does tollable". Here we can see how the Ewells family function. The way they behave and treat each other.

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Main events

Aunt Alexandra arrives to live with the Finch family.She wants to provide a “feminine influence” for Scout.She becomes involved in Maycomb’s social life and tries to impose her traditional views.Alexandra insists that Atticus teach the children about the importance of their Finch family heritage.Atticus awkwardly tries to do this but quickly drops the idea when he sees how uncomfortable it makes Scout and Jem.

Themes

This chapter focuses on how society expects people to behave based on family background. Alexandra believes the Finches should act superior because of their ancestry, which contrasts with Atticus’s values of fairness and individuality.

When is it shown?

Alexandra talks about the importance of acting like a proper lady and tells Scout to behave like one .She wants Jem and Scout to understand their “background” and behave according to their “family name”.The book uses contrast between Alexandra and Atticus to show the differences between tradition and moral integrity.

How does Harper Lee conveys it?

Through Aunt Alexandra’s views, which reflect Maycomb’s obsession with ancestry and social status.By showing the conflict between Alexandra’s traditional beliefs and Atticus’s values of equality and character.Through Scout’s discomfort, highlighting how forced ideas of class and pride feel unnatural to her and Jem.

Quotes

“She asked me to tell you you must try to behave like the little lady and gentleman that you are. She wants to talk to you about the family.”

Explanation: This quote shows Alexandra’s focus on image, tradition, and reputation. She sees Scout and Jem’s behavior as a reflection of the Finch name.

For a while Atticus stood looking at the floor. Then he said, ‘Alexandra’s request… that you try to live up to your name…’”

Explanation: Atticus tries to pass along Alexandra’s message about family pride. His hesitation shows he’s uncomfortable,

highlighting the tension between personal values and social expectations.

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In this chapter Heck Tate and other visit Atticus to warn him about trouble involving Tom Robinson. With that information, Atticus decides to guard Tom Robinson's cell, without realizing Jem, Scout and Dill had secretly followed him. Short after he arrived, a mob of white people arrived, demanding he moved, threatening they would lynch Tom Robinson. “You know what we want,” another man said. “Get aside from the door, Mr. Finch.” Scout, without realizing the dangers of the situatuion, decided to help Atticus. She recognized Mr Cunningham, and told her about how she went to school with his son, Walter. Scout's innocence make the mob realize what they were doing was wrong, making them disperse. “I go to school with Walter,” I began again. “He’s your boy, ain’t he? Ain’t he, sir?”. Harper Lee conveys the theme moral courage by showing how Atticus would not move aside from the door, even if he knew it was the safest option and how Scout and Jem protected their father no matter what and Heck Tate too, warning Atticus about the mob.

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"No suh, not after she offered a nickle the first time. I was glad to do it, Mr Ewell didnt seem to help her none, and neither did the chillum, and I knowed she didnt have no nickles to spare." This is said when Atticus asks Tom if he was ever paid for his services to Mayella. In this quote we can observe the inoccence and empathy from Tom who helped a white woman expecting nothing in exchange and beacuse he knew mayella didnt get much help in the house.

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Main events

Scout asks Atticus what “rape” means after hearing it at church; he gives a basic legal definition.Scout and Jem argue over Dill, and Jem tells Atticus that Dill has run away from home.That night, Dill is found hiding under Scout’s bed.Dill explains that he ran away because he felt unwanted by his parents.Atticus calmly allows Dill to stay the night, showing his trust and understanding.

Themes

This chapter explores how children need love, attention, and security in their family life. It shows the emotional differences between Dill’s home, where he feels unwanted, and the Finch household, where Atticus provides steady, supportive parenting.

When is it shown?

When Scout asks about “rape”, showing Scout’s When Dill explains why he ran away, revealing his emotional neglect at home.

When Atticus allows Dill to stay, showing the contrast between different family environments and how love and support.

How Harper Lee Conveys It?

Through Scout’s innocent, honest narration, which reflects the emotional world of a child.Dialogue, especially Dill’s confession about feeling unwanted.The contrasts between the Finch family and Dill’s parents.Atticus’s parenting, which shows understanding and emotional intelligence.

Quotes

“They just wasn’t interested in me.”
Explanation:This quote shows how some children feel emotionally abandoned by their families.

“Atticus was right. One time he said you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them.”
Explanation: Reflects the growing emotional maturity and understanding children gain through experience.

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Main events

Calpurnia delivers a note saying the children are missing; they’re found watching the trial from the balcony.Atticus allows them to stay and hear the verdict.After long deliberation, the jury finds Tom Robinson guilty, despite clear evidence of his innocence.As Atticus leaves, the Black spectators stand in silent respect.

Themes

Injustice and Racism

Tom’s conviction shows how deeply racism corrupts justice. The evidence proves his innocence, but because he’s Black and accused by a white person, the jury convicts him anyway.

When is it shown?

In the verdict itself guilty despite lack of evidence.In the jury’s delay, giving false hope that justice might be served.In the Black community’s reaction, showing their expectation of injustice and their quiet dignity.

How does Harper Lee conveys it?

Through the contrast between Atticus’s logical defense and the irrational verdict.Through Scout’s innocent but confused perspective, making the injustice more emotional.Through the symbolic gesture of the Black spectators standing for Atticus, recognizing moral courage despite the racist system.

Quotes

Guilty…guilty…guilty…”

Explanation: This repeated verdict shows how prejudice overrides truth. The jury ignores the facts because of Tom’s race, revealing the injustice built into the system.

Explanation: This quiet moment shows respect from the Black community. Even though justice wasn’t served, they honor Atticus for trying to fight racism with integrity and courage.

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Main Events

Jem is heartbroken over Tom Robinson’s conviction.The Black community thanks Atticus with food, despite their poverty.Miss Maudie comforts the children, reminding them of people who tried to do the right thing.Bob Ewell threatens Atticus, spitting in his face.Atticus explains he accepts Ewell’s anger to protect Mayella.Jem and Atticus discuss how racism affects juries, and Atticus hopes for change.Scout, Jem, and Aunt Alexandra also discuss class and prejudice in Maycomb.

Themes:Injustice and Racism

The chapters show how deeply racism shapes the legal system and society, where a Black man can be convicted with no real evidence, and where someone like Bob Ewell is still believed because he’s white.

When it is shown?

Tom’s conviction, despite the evidence proving his innocence.The jury’s bias, as explained by Atticus and Jem’s conversation.Bob Ewell’s reaction, showing how hate persists even after “winning.”The children’s emotional reactions, especially Jem’s heartbreak.

How Harper Lee Conveys it?

Through dialogue and emotion Jem’s tears show how injustice feels to the innocent.Through contrast between Atticus’s calm reason and Maycomb’s racist reality.Through symbolism food from the Black community as a quiet form of gratitude and resistance.Through Scout’s narration, which reveals how children process unfairness in the world.

Quotes

“They’ve done it before and they did it tonight and they’ll do it again and when they do it seems that only children weep.”

Explanation: This quote shows the persistence of racial injustice and the idea that children, who still believe in fairness, are the only ones truly upset by it.

“It’s like bein’ a caterpillar in a cocoon, that’s what it is… I always thought Maycomb folks were the best folks in the world, least that’s what they seemed like.”

Explanation: Jem is realizing the ugly truth about racism in his community. His disillusionment reflects how injustice shatters childhood innocence.

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Main Events

Scout and Dill meet Mr. Dolphus Raymond, who pretends to be drunk but is actually sober.Mr. Raymond explains that he pretends to drink to give white people an excuse for his lifestyle (being with a Black woman and having mixed children).Atticus delivers his closing argument, urging the jury to look past race and see the truth.He argues that the case is as simple as “black and white,” but also knows the jury is unlikely to rule fairly.

Themes

Chapter 20 shows how people hide the truth to survive in a racist society, and how racial prejudice corrupts justice.

When it is shown?

Through Mr. Raymond’s act he pretends to be drunk so society has a reason to accept his choices, revealing the pressures of racism.In Atticus’s closing speech, where he speaks directly against racial bias and pleads for justice, knowing it likely won’t come.

How Harper Lee Conveys It?

Through contrast Mr. Raymond’s honesty vs. society’s judgmental nature.Through Atticus’s calm, logical voice trying to rise above racial hatred.Through Scout and Dill’s perspective, showing their growing understanding of how unfair the world is.

Quotes

“Let him get a little older and he won’t get sick and cry… the way he was cryin’ tonight.”

Explanation: This highlights how children like Dill feel the pain of racism and injustice deeply until they grow up and become numb to it, like the rest of society.

“But there is one way in this country in which all men are created equal there is one human institution that makes a pauper the equal of a Rockefeller… That institution, gentlemen, is a court.”

Explanation: Atticus appeals to the jury’s sense of justice, but the irony is clear: the court should be fair, but racism prevents it from being so.

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In Chapter 24, Scout attends a missionary circle meeting at her house. The women discuss helping Africans while showing racist attitudes toward the Black community in Maycomb, especially after Tom Robinson’s death. This highlights the theme of racism and hypocrisy in society.

Themes

In Chapter 24, the theme of racism and hypocrisy is shown through the missionary circle. The women claim to care about helping Africans but speak badly about Black people in Maycomb. Harper Lee uses this to show how people can act kind and religious, but still be unfair and racist.

When is it shown?

During the missionary tea at the Finch home when the ladies discuss the Mrunas and criticize Atticus for defending Tom Robinson.

How does Harper Lee convey it?

Through irony and Scout’s innocent point of view. Lee contrasts the women’s supposed Christian values with their racist and judgmental attitudes.

Quotes

“Mrs. Merriweather’s large brown eyes always filled with tears when she considered the oppressed…”

“If we were to have one more trial like that one, I can’t say what might happen to this county.”