I had just finished reading chapter 21, where the jury had reached a verdict that Tom Robinson is guilty. This does not only infuriate me, but it also makes me question the morality and ethics of the so called “upright and civilized” southerners of the 1950’s. The white southerners, who consider themselves superior and more respectable, contradict themselves in that they abide by the holy Bible which stresses that all are equal in God’s eyes; yet they fail to practice what they preach when it comes to Negroes. In chapter 11, Atticus says, “Tom Robinson’s case, is something that goes to the essence of a man’s conscience- Scout, I couldn’t go to church and worship God if I didn’t try to help that man” (pg.139). This reveals what kind of man Atticus is; he is honorable and principled. Unlike the rest of Maycomb, Atticus believes that justice extends far beyond race. In the very essence, Atticus encourages the mockingbirds to sing their songs.
It was perfectly clear and evident that Tom Robinson was innocent; but in this case, the color of a man’s skin dictates his consequences. In chapter 21 Judge Taylor says, “This case is as simple as black and white…In the name of God, believe him [Tom Robinson]” (pg. 271-273). Even the judge solely believes that this black man is innocent, but it doesn’t matter; all that matters is that he is black. Tom Robinson sums it up when he says, “Mr. Finch, if you was a nigger like me, you’d be scared too” (pg.261). What makes me even angrier is that this type of discrimination and racism happens today. In our world, many are victims of prejudice and discrimination because of their race and ethnical background. It surprises me how we are not much different from the generations before us and how we have the tendency to judge others because of their skin color.
Tom Robinson is symbolically the mockingbird of the novel. Tom Robinson is a kind, genuine man who does no harm and just like a mockingbird, he is completely innocent. Killing a mockingbird is like sentencing Tom Robinson to die, a sin backed by no reason.
Throughout the novel, I took note of the times both Jem and Scout would be ashamed of their father, Atticus. Although Atticus is not the strongest or the youngest father, he is the most respectable and courageous man. In chapter 11, Atticus says, “I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do “(pg. 149). Atticus is the best example of courage; to defend a Negro with no chance of winning and to do it with integrity while surpassing adversity is true courage. TEAM ATTICUS all the way! :D
I agree with what you said. Both Jem and Scout had their moments when they were ashamed of their father and everytime they were proved wrong. Their father was the bravest one in Maycomb by defending Tom Robinson when he knew he was not going to win, and by shooting the sick dog when no one else would, but thats not the best reason. The best reason that Atticus was the best father was because he taught Jem and Scout how to stand up for what they believe is right and showed them how to do it.
ReplyDeleteCharlene:)
ReplyDeleteI agree with everything you said. While i was reading the book, i realized that Atticus was my favorite charcter in the story because he is a man that is so unique. Not only is he caring for his children, but he is also respectful. He is a man who tries not to critize, but to understand the point of view of someone else story. I really loved the story and i hope you enjoyed it as well:)
Love,
Thannia Sandoval