What does atticus say about defending tom robinson What is he doing? Atticus is found string outside the jail, reading, he is guarding the jail to make sure the mob does not get a chance to kill Tom Robinson. Uncle Jack punishes Scout for fighting with Francis. Who is Atticus defending? Some people in Maycomb are saying that Atticus should not be defending Robinson. #4. It's a coke. It is a case he cannot hope to win, but Atticus tells Scout that he must argue it to uphold his sense of justice and self-respect. Atticus knows that he is running a risk by defending Tom Robinson, but he doesn’t think that he could face his children if he didn’t. Scout punched Francis because of the trial about Tom Robinson and Atticus defending him. Analyzed for their impact on justice, truth, and empathy. Although Atticus is only saying what he believes, the town is lashing out at Atticus for it, but Atticus ignores them. Atticus is particularly interested in protecting his children from the ugliness around the trial, and here, he tries to convince Scout to ignore whatever abuse comes her way. Tate? Jun 13, 2024 · Justice and Fairness Challenging Racial Prejudices The Principles of the Legal System Conclusion Bibliography Justice and Fairness: Why Did Atticus Defend Tom Robinson? So, why did Atticus go ahead and defend Tom Robinson? This question is like the heart of Harper Lee's famous book, "To Kill a Mockingbird. " What is it about this case that strikes so deeply at what Atticus believes?, Compare Scout's reasons for walking away It does not matter if a person is white black or even purple, everyone is equal to Atticus. Black man named Tom Robinson who is accused of rap, people in town think Atticus shouldn't be defending an n-word but Atticus says he would be disregarding his profession as a lawyer and his own code of ethics. "For a number of reasons," said Atticus. But because he’s black, everyone thinks it’s a disgrace that Atticus took the case after Tom was arrested. Atticus Finch's reluctant shooting of the dog parallels his defense of Tom Robinson, highlighting his Atticus is defending Tom Robinson. Failing to do so, he explains, would undermine his integrity in all aspects of his life, public, professional, and personal as a father. At Christmastime, Atticus’s brother, Jack, comes to stay with Atticus for a week during the holidays. ", Atticus is defending a black man named Tom Robinson. By the time Jem finds Scout, there’s no more room. Nothing changes when old ideas are not challenged. Defending Tom is also the right thing to do and Atticus says he can never tell his kids what to do again if he does not take this challenge. What does this mean and Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like When Atticus speaks of defending Tom Robinson, he says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win. What's worse, he says bad things about Atticus defending Tom, which leads Scout to punch him in the face. Atticus says if he didn't defend Tom Robinson, he wouldn't be able to tell his own kids right from wrong. This impulsive act was driven by a combination of frustration, anger, and a sense of justice. Also look at his statement, "every lawyer gets at least one case in his lifetime that affects him personally. Jan 24, 2025 · By agreeing to defend Tom Robinson, Atticus challenges not just the legal system but the very fabric of Maycomb's societal norms. The next day Mar 22, 2024 · Tom Robinson is introduced in Chapter 9 of "To Kill a Mockingbird" when Atticus Finch is assigned to defend him in court against false accusations of raping a Mayella Ewell. What does Atticus say when asked by Scout if he is going to win the case? How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama at this time? To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 9. ? What does Miss Gates say about Hitler's persecution of the Jews? What does Scout think about Miss Gates? What does the mockingbird symbolize in To Kill a Mockingbird? The men snigger that Atticus does nothing but read, and one notes that the court appointed Atticus to defend Tom. Uncle Jack visits from Boston, leading to a conflict between Scout and Francis. What kind of case was Atticus referring to when he told Jack, I was hoping to get through life without a case of this kind? Personal relationships and the Bigotry Scout reveals the inadequacies of her father. the old clock symbolizes unfairness or untrustworthy. Makes her feel more comfortable because now she thinks that it wasn't up to Atticus to be a "n*****-lover. What are people in the town saying about the case, and what is Atticus's response to the gossip? Some people in Maycomb are saying that Atticus should not be defending What fact about Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson does Scout learn from the Idler's Club? Atticus was appointed to defend Tom, and intends to defend Tom to the best of his ability Where do the children sit for the trial? What things (more than one) does this tell you? balcony; they are not prejudice Why does Atticus interrupt Aunt Alexandra's tea? How does Tom's death affect Maycomb? Mr. He knows the prejudice in Maycomb will most likely lead to a guilty verdict against Tom. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like When Atticus speaks of defending Tom Robinson, he says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win. Page 76: This is the first mention of Atticus’ defense of Tom Robinson. What did Jem say Mr. Another says disapprovingly that Atticus is taking it seriously. Townspeople are upset with the situation because Tom is a black man being accused of raping a white girl. Get everything you need to know about Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird. He believes that everyone is equal and therefore just because Tom Robinson is black, doesn't mean that he should not defend him. Why does scout not want uncle jack to tell Atticus why she fought Francis? Mar 22, 2024 · Judge Taylor specifically assigned Tom Robinson's case to Atticus Finch because he knew that Atticus was a fair and just lawyer who would provide an ethical defense for Tom. As the day of the trial looms closer, the more racial tension flares. People are saying that his is a black lover. Atticus, it is made clear in Chapter 9 , is representing Tom, who has been unjustly accused of raping a white woman by the town’s… Start your 48-hour free trial to unlock this answer and thousands more. Atticus Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Why does Atticus feel he needs to defend Tom Robinson?, What do the children get for Christmas?, Why does Scout get in a fight with Francis? What is the result? and more. " To what is Atticus referring? Why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?, Think about Scout's fight with Francis and Atticus Feb 12, 2020 · In Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus is a man who is appointed by Judge Taylor to defend Tom Robinson. Jem had witnessed Mrs. This is new, confusing information for Scout, since it seems they don’t like Atticus for doing his job. Atticus hopes that the bitterness and racism that the trial is bound to stir up do not affect his children. " To what is Atticus referring? Why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?, Think about Scout's fight with Francis and Atticus Feb 25, 2014 · Atticus explains that he is doing this because he values equality and justice. " Source (s) To Kill a Mockingird Summary: Chapter 14 The impending trial of Tom Robinson and Atticus ’s role as his defense lawyer make Jem and Scout the objects of whispers and glances whenever they go to town. What is Jem’s punishment for destroying Mrs. He asked for a bowtie for Christmas. According to the text, why does Atticus feel he must defend Tom Robinson? In Chapter 9, Page 99 Atticus feels like he has to do what is right to be able to hold his head up and even have any authority over his children. Cunningham tells Scout he'll say hi to Walter for her and makes all the guys clear out. Oct 21, 2024 · After dinner one Christmas, Uncle Jack talks with Atticus about the forthcoming trial of Tom Robinson, suggesting that maybe Atticus could get out of defending Tom. -should have been Maxwell Greens 4. Jun 13, 2024 · Why Does Atticus Take on Tom’s Case? Why does Atticus Finch, a small-town lawyer in Harper Lee's classic, To Kill a Mockingbird, decide to defend Tom Robinson? That’s the big question. Atticus says that he takes the case because he knows that he'd be going against his ethics/ values if he did not. Similarly, Calpurnia, the Finch family cook, is black and Atticus shows his belief that everyone is equal by standing up for Cal whenever he can. What do you think Mrs. This one's mine, I guess. The factors that influenced his choice on taking on this case is, he believes Tom is innocent, Tom is a church friend of Calpurnia, and he believes that it is his duty. What does Atticus mean when he says "This case Tom Robinson's case, is something that goes to the essence of the man's conscience-Scout I couldn't go to the church and worship god if i didn't try to help that man"? Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Look closely at the reasons Atticus gives Scout for defending Tom Robinson. Warns Scout about facing dirty remarks and advises her to avoid fights. What does that mean and why does he say it? and more. " With whom do the children sit in the courtroom? Atticus and Uncle Jack have been talking about the abuse the children will face in school because of Atticus defending Tom Robinson. "The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this county in the legislature. Nov 21, 2023 · In learning about the Tom Robinson case, Scout learns a lot about her father and her town. He is the sheriff of Maycomb County. This perspective highlights that the act of standing up for what is right carries significant value, regardless of the Aug 2, 2017 · Atticus tells her about Tom Robinson, the man he’s been asked to defend. What does this mean and Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Why does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama during this time period?, Scout and Jem have "mixed feelings about Christmas. Study with Quizlet and memorise flashcards containing terms like When Atticus speaks of defending Tom Robinson, he says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win. After the trial, he seems destined to be held in the same high regard as before. What are some of Study with Quizlet and memorise flashcards containing terms like When Atticus speaks of defending Tom Robinson, he says, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win. After Scout talks to Mr. What news does Scout overhear about Atticus' defending Tom Robinson? Does it give her any comfort? Why or why not? Atticus was appointed to Tom. Two-Part Question Mar 12, 2025 · What is it that confuses her? Atticus was appointed to defend Robinson. Oct 9, 2017 · Atticus Finch emphasizes the importance of fighting against injustice, even in the face of likely defeat, as a way to uphold moral integrity and inspire others. Although Atticus is only saying what he believes, the town is lashing out on Atticus for it, but Atticus ignores them. Unable to abide the town’s comfortable ingrained racial prejudice, he agrees to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man. Maudie explained that Judge Taylor assigned Atticus to defend Tom Robinson because he knew that Atticus would give Tom a fair trial and do his best to help him. Mar 22, 2015 · Atticus said that he wouldn't be able to hold up his head. What is Atticus’ response? #5. He says to Scout many times, if he did not defend this man, he could never tell Jem or her (Scout) not to do something. Atticus is defending Tom Robinson because he values equality and believes in justice for others. Atticus on how he was chosen by Judge Taylor to defend Tom Robinson, because Taylor knew that Atticus would have the courage to actually defend him, unlike most people. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like How does Atticus feel about the word "n- word"?, What is Atticus personal reason for defending Tom Robinson?, What does Atticus mean when he says"Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win. which eye of miss mayella ewells face was hit according to heck tate? Aug 23, 2020 · The trial of Tom Robinson hangs like an enormous weight over the Finch household in the chapters leading up to the actual court proceedings. Even Scout and Jem are not immune to people's dispersions. Atticus is defending Tom Robinson (who is black). 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. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson?, Scout and Jem have "mixed feelings" about Christmas. She learns that Atticus is defending Tom because it is the right thing to do, a decision that further Aug 22, 2025 · Atticus powerfully connects his decision to defend Tom Robinson to his fundamental sense of self-respect and moral authority. Atticus is defending Tom Robinson. Tom is an innocent black man, accused of a crime he did not commit. " To what is Atticus referring? Why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?, Think about Scout's fight with Francis and Atticus Chapter 9 8. Atticus Atticus so rarely asked Jem and me to do something for him, I could take being called a coward for him. But he feels it is important to defend him because he is innocent and it is simply the right thing to do. That's what I don't like about it. Cecil Jacobs provoked Scout at school by saying that Atticus defends blacks. Underwood's editorial defending Tom Robinson is surprising because . What does this mean and Who is Atticus defending? Atticus is defending a black man named Tom Robinson. , How does Atticus hope to prevent Jem and Scout from catching the disease of most people? and more. Oct 21, 2024 · Quotes on Atticus's Defense of Tom Robinson Summary: In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch faces severe criticism for defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. " and more. Dubose means when she says Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson is "going against his raising?" What do her comments reveal about racism in Maycomb? Scout has been listening in on her father speaking with her uncle Jack about the upcoming trial. What does Atticus spend much of his time asking Mr. “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. Atticus, being morally upright, prepares to defend him and takes this case quite seriously. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like How does Atticus explain the reasons for his defending Tom Robinson?, What advice does Atticus give Scout about handling insults?, How does Atticus react to Scout's trying out swearing? How does Uncle Jack react? Which reaction seems more appropriate? Why? and more. In To Kill a Mockingbird, the mad dog, Tim Johnson, symbolizes the pervasive racism in Maycomb. Dolphus Raymond was doing Because they don't belong anywhere Why does Jem say the mixed children are sad Atticus didn't have an option of defending Tom Robinson because he had been appointed to defend him What did Scout find out about Atticus when listening to the Idlers' Club Atticus's Defense and Prejudice in Maycomb Atticus's Integrity and Teaching Tolerance Atticus defends Tom Robinson despite knowing he won't win the case. Tom is a member of Calpurnia’s church, and a family man. What are these feelings and why?, Uncle Jack Finch tells Scout that she is growing out of her pants. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like What can be deduced about the character of Atticus from his defense of Tom Robinson?, Contrast Aunt Alexandra and Atticus. This line comes from Atticus’s closing argument to the jury at Tom Robinson’s trial. The people of maycomb say he shouldn't. " She then asks him why he is taking on a case that cannot be won. Analysis, related quotes, timeline. Robinson and his family go to Calpurnia's church and are considered "clean-living folks" by her. What is Atticus’ reasoning for defending Tom Robinson? What does he mean when he says, “Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win”? This speaks to a major theme in the novel Feb 20, 2023 · In the beginning of Chapter 9, we find out that Atticus is defending a Negro named Tom Robinson. Speaking of feminine influence and people Scout chooses to spend her time with, one of those people being Calpurnia, Aunt Alexandra isn't fond of her and is adamant on making sure Atticus fires her, so her tradition comes with being a racist. Aug 22, 2025 · 31 heartbreaking Tom Robinson quotes with page numbers from Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. Nov 21, 2023 · What is Jem scared of in Chapter 15? After Atticus decides to defend Tom Robinson, Jem realizes the risk his father is taking. Atticus expresses the hope that the children will come to him for answers to questions. . What is it? Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like How does Atticus explain to Scout his decision to defend Tom Robinson?, What does he mean by saying he could not ask her and Jem to mind him if he did not take the case?, How is Uncle Jack different from Atticus? and more. Aug 22, 2025 · Atticus powerfully connects his decision to defend Tom Robinson to his fundamental sense of self-respect and moral authority. Scout was taught not to fight. Teaches tolerance and courage, never viewing those who disagree as enemies. Here is the excerpt: "If you shouldn't be defendin' him, then why are you doin' it?" "For a number of reasons," said Atticus. Dubose insulting and taunting him and his sister Scout for their father, Atticus Finch, defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of a crime he did not commit. The court didn't like that Atticus accepted it and defended Tom Robinson. ? What does Miss Gates say about Hitler's persecution of the Jews? What does Scout think about Miss Gates? What does the mockingbird symbolize in To Kill a Mockingbird? Why does Atticus interrupt Aunt Alexandra's tea? How does Tom's death affect Maycomb? Mr. Scout asks why he took the case then, and Atticus insists that he had to in order to hold his head up and maintain the moral high ground. Scout asks why he took it, and Atticus says he couldn’t live with himself if he didn’t. I felt extremely noble for having remembered. What does Atticus say about the term “nigger-lover” and the people who use it? #7. Miss Maudie refers to an important "baby step". Mar 9, 2014 · How does atticus defending tom robinson effect his kids? On chapter 9 pages 98 through 101 scouts cousin calls her dad a nigger lover and says that scout and her father are a discrace to the family. The Courtroom: A Place for Mar 22, 2012 · Atticus is defending Tom Robinson. Cunningham about Walter and the entailment of his farm, what does he do? Mr. When Scout asks Atticus if is he is going to win the case, he tells her, "No, honey. Scout asked Atticus why he was defending Robinson, and Atticus gave several distinct reasons, such as that if he didn't defend Robinson, he could never hold his head up again or tell Scout or Jem what to do. Scout asks Atticus why he needs to defend Tom Robinson if everyone else thinks it is wrong. Atticus knows, however, that someone has to try for Tom Robinson. With a sigh, Atticus says he’s defending a black man named Tom Robinson, and some believe that he shouldn’t defend Tom. " Atticus Finch, this small-town lawyer from Maycomb, Alabama, had folks talking about Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Who does Scout want to fight at the beginning of chapter 9 for calling Atticus a name because he was defending a black man?, Who is the man Atticus will be defending and how does Calpurnia know him?, Why does Atticus tell Scout he has to defend Tom? and more. Tom, a black man, is accused of raping a white woman. Jul 24, 2020 · What does Scout discover about Atticus and defending Tom Robinson from the idlers club? Scout overhears the members of the “Idlers’ Club” discussing Atticus. Atticus’s action makes him the object of scorn in Maycomb, but he is simply too impressive a figure to be scorned for long. This means she disapproves of Atticus defending Tom Robinson. " To what is Atticus referring? Why would it be worthwhile to fight a battle that you know you're going to lose?, Think about Scout's fight with Francis and Atticus To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 9. One day, Scout tries to ask Atticus what “rape” is, and the subject of the children’s trip to Calpurnia ’s church comes up. Aunt Alexandra tells Scout she cannot go back the next Sunday. He recognizes that taking this case isn’t merely about defending an innocent man; it’s about confronting systemic injustice head-on. What does this say about Judge Taylor? -Atticus being appointed to defend Tom Robinson -That he was trying to help Tom Robinson, because knew Atticus was the only man that could keep a jury out so long in a case like Tom Robinsons. When one of them states that the court had appointed Atticus to defend Robinson, another replies, "Yeah, but Atticus aims to defend him. Atticus says he is doing the right thing by defending him so he can hold his head high. These quotes make Atticus like a guidepost for others, inspiring folks to follow their conscience and battle injustice. " Despite these minor failings, Atticus’s determination to defend Tom Robinson teaches Scout and Jem the importance of doing the right thing, even when the odds are stacked against you. Scout asks why. Later, she tries to Mar 17, 2018 · The all white jury will undoubtedly be racist and Tom will lose. what do jem and scout find out about atticus decision to defend tom Robinson? the court assigned the tom robinson case to atticus, this is a relief to scout and jem so the people dont think differently to Atticus. . Atticus is defending Tom Robinson, a noble black man. Many people in town are critical of Atticus because Tom is a black man accused of raping a white girl. Jun 13, 2024 · This shows Atticus’ determination to fight for what's right despite all odds stacked against him. Mar 22, 2024 · Mrs. They have deep racial prejudices against To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 9. We’re in 1930s Alabama, a place charged with tension and racial divides. " What makes Scout feel "noble"? Atticus is defending a black man named Tom Robinson. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama at this time?, Scout and Jem have "mixed feelings" about Christmas? What are these feelings and why?, Uncle Jack Finch tells Scout that she is growing out of her pants. He appeals to the jury’s patriotism by suggesting that American courts ensure equality, which is one of the country’s foundational principles. He believes that defending those wrongly accused, like Tom Robinson, contributes to a broader struggle for justice. " If Atticus thought she learned them at school he wouldn't make her go Why does scout fight Francis ? Because Atticus a ******-lover scout fought with her cousin Francis at Christmas because he insulted her farther for defending Tom Robinson. Oct 21, 2024 · Quick answer: Two quotes showing why Atticus shouldn't defend Tom Robinson are: "The only thing we have is a black man's word against the Ewells'" (Chapter 9), highlighting the unwinnable nature Atticus knows that by agreeing to defend Tom Robinson he has put himself and his family in line for some unpleasant experiences. In Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird", Atticus Finch expresses his commitment to defending Tom Robinson despite the odds in Chapter 9. To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 9. The townspeople of Maycomb, however, do not care about Tom's innocence. Atticus to Scout on why he has decided to defend Tom Robinson, a black man accused of rape, in court. What does Atticus mean when he says, "This case, 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"? Atticus is saying that this is core, everyday he tries to be a good person. Who is the first person to take the stand and testify? Heck Tate was the first witness. Dubose means when she says Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson is "going against his raising?" What do her comments reveal about racism in Maycomb? Nov 21, 2023 · What is Jem scared of in Chapter 15? After Atticus decides to defend Tom Robinson, Jem realizes the risk his father is taking. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like who does Scout nearly start a fight with? why?, who is Atticus defending in court?, Atticus says he will not win the case, so why did he agree to take it on? and more. Dubose’s bushes? #6. Explain why this statement is important. Atticus has been asked to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man accused of raping a white woman. Defending Tom isn’t just some legal thing—it’s something he feels morally obligated to do. Atticus says he shouldn't be working very hard at defending him but he says it all boils down to self-respect. Tom Robinson is the client whom Atticus must defend in court: a young Black man accused of beating and raping Mayella Ewell, a white girl. While he is the central topic of the town’s gossip prior to the trial, there are a number of details about him that go unmentioned until he is testifying on the witness stand. uyxmfu spl nqwja imo ayxm cdsn rcfgb hkoisw oxuigb reu xpo sikqv fbly yqqc aptows