24 November 2014

"To Kill a Mockingbird" Chapters 19 through 21 reaction

Due Wednesday

- - - What is the significance of Atticus' closing argument?

- - - What is the significance of Jem's reaction to the verdict?

- - - Where can the book possibly go from here?

46 comments:

  1. Atticus's closing statement showed his true intentions throughout the trial: he wasn't necessarily trying to free Tom Robinson, but he was trying to point out the flaws in an elitist way of thinking. Jem's reaction is significant because it's Jem's first experience observing something truly unfair. He doesn't completely understand it but he reluctantly understands it, which is something very mature of him to do. I think that next in the book, Jem will possibly apply what he learned from the court case to Boo Radley, and, of course, Jem will end up eventually breaking his arm.

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  2. The significance in Atticus' closing argument was that he was asking the jury to not be baised with their decision based on the skin color of Tom. But his main point was that all humans were created equal regardless of skin color. He begged tbe jury for Tom to have a fair verdict. Jem's reaction id significant because he storms out of the room angry in a childish manor while Scout is acting very mature about it. The book could go towards a more violent approach to the Finch family. They will most likely be more outcasted then they are now.

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  3. Atticus stresses in his closing argument that all men are created equal. He brings up the fact that Thomas Jefferson stated that. He knows it is a case about prejudice and he wants the jury to realize that. He also says "In the name of God, do your duty". He may have said this to express the importance and symbol of God to the jury.
    Jem's reaction is significant because he knows the case is all because the color of Tom Robinson's skin. He knows Atticus had the right information and Tom should've been prove innocent, but because he is a negro he is guilty.
    The book is going to go down hill I think. The town is full of prejudice and Atticus and the kids are going to hear bad things said about them throughout the town.

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  4. Atticus' closing statement is simply stating the facts. He tells the jury all the evidence he has and lays it all on the line. What is significant about the closing argument is when Atticus begs the jury not to use their previous knowledge of blacks, but to look at the evidence of purely Tom Robinson's case. Atticus is not only asking this of the jury but also the town. When Jem starts to cry about the verdict this is so significant because it shows he cared how the trial ended a great deal. Jem believed that the law system would do its duty in proving innocence and guilty, and this idea of his was shattered, because of this in a way his childhood has finally ended. The book could go in the direction now of the town of Maycomb realizing its racism issues. The light of the trial could come out and show to the people where their hatred has lead to, which is an innocent man going to jail for a crime he didn't commit. This could then lead to a shared alliance between the two races.

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  5. Atticus's closing argument is significant because he tells the town that they are wrong and shows that he is against what the town believes. Throughout the novel, the reader has known that Atticus tends to go against the town, but in his final argument he fully states that he thinks the town is wrong. He also takes a risk and announces that he believes blacks and whites are equal. His argument shows that his character represents justice and equality.

    Jem's reaction to the verdict is significant because it shows the effect young children can have on the town. Jem believes that Atticus will win for sure. He understands how unfair the trial is and expects Atticus's arguments to be enough. When Tom Robinson is declared guilty, Jem is shocked and confused. Even though he is maturing, he does not understand all of the prejudice within the town yet. His reaction represents the need for a change in the way blacks are treated.

    I think the book will continue to focus on the loss of Jem and Scout's innocence. After hearing the verdict of the trial, I think Jem and Scout will begin to question the actions of the town. I think Boo Radley will come back in to the story at one point, because in the past few chapters Scout has begun to mention the Radley family occasionally. The remainder of the book will most likely focus on changes within the town, the characters, and the innocence of the children.

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  6. Question 1: Atticus's closing argument in extremely significant to the book. He directly states the theme of the book to the citizens. He shows how racial inequality is so tense. It caused Mayella to deny her kiss with Tom Robinson in fear of deep hatred. He also addresses the problem with judging in the town. He says that judging has obscured their views and prevents them from seeing clearly. Atticus finally talks about the racial inequality in the town. This is significant because what Atticus talks about is the recurring themes the readers have seen in the book. It also may change the way the town views each other and, if not, it may open their eyes to the harshness of judging.
    Question 2: Jem's reaction to the verdict is important because it shows that he is growing more mature. He is able to understand the trial and how unfair it is. It also shows that Jem has developed his own morals that stress equality and fairness. He is becoming more mature and is gaining a better understanding of the world. This may help influence Scout as a character, which would change the perspective of the book.
    Question 3: The book could go in many directions from this point forward. Atticus's closing argument and the unfair verdict may slowly change the town's view of African Americans and each other. It may open their eyes to how judging and prejudice can harm someone. Jem's maturity may influence Scout and help her become more mature, which would change the narration of the book. The theme may be used even more and it may have to do with Boo Radley (where did he go?).

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  7. The significance of Atticus's closing argument was to show how unfair this case was being represented. He said the only reason they were against Tom Robinson was because he was black. They did no further investigation of this case and no cross examination to even try to prove that Tom was guilty. Atticus was trying to stress how everyone was created equal and that no man should be looked at as greater.

    After Jem heard the news of the final verdict, he started crying saying that it wasn't right that Tom Robinson was guilty. They all knew he was not.

    I don't know where the book will end up going. It seems like there is nothing else to be suspenseful.. And there seems to be no hope for Tom Robinson after being called guilty. This book is still about the story about Jem breaking his arm so I guess we will find out how..

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  8. Atticus' closing argument emphasizes the reason why the jury chose to convict Tom Robinson and is an effort to show the jury as well as the audience what is wrong with society. He has certainly made a great case on Tom's behalf; the evidence supports Tom, and there should be no dispute as to the outcome of the case. However, Atticus knows that personal grudges and prejudice will influence the jury's decision. He thinks that perhaps if he reminds the jury of their moral obligation to see everyone as equal in court that he may guilt them enough into judging Tom fairly. Atticus also utilizes this argument to try to affect the trial's audience, that they may see through his perspective and realize that such prejudices must be overcome in Maycomb.

    Jem's reaction exhibits his integrity. Despite his father losing the case and all the prejudice exposed to him in daily life, Jem does not change his view. He sticks to it and feels genuinely upset that the morally upright outcome did not occur.

    The book has to complete the children's interaction with Boo Radley, resolving that conflict. It should also exhibit the effect the case has on Maycomb, as it is evident that something will change.

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  9. Atticus has never gone along with anything in Maycomb. He never believed all the myths and was like the other people in Maycomb. In his closing argument he shows that. He shows how he doesn't believe on the way people think in the town. He says that there are no facts showing Tom Robinson is guilty and says how the white person, Mayella is the one at fault. He says that they can't say Tom is guilty when the only proof they have is two bias witnesses. His closing argument is a significant moment.

    Jem knows that Tom Robinson is innocent so when he hears that he is shown to be guilt he begins to cry. This is significant because it shows Jem losing his respect for the people Maycomb. The childhood innocence of Jem is leaving as he starts to see how some people are treated in the real world.

    Going forward, I think Jem will begin acting like an adult and disagree with the ideas of Maycomb and begin to behave more like Atticus. Scout will most likely still have her childhood innocence and disagree with Jem but soon start to realize his reasoning for being this way, as she becomes older as well.

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  10. 1. What is significant of closing argument is that he is trying to convince the court to be equal. He asks the jury to make court an equalizer and not try Tom as a black man but simply as a person. He tries to convince the jury to see Tom Robinson as an innocent person caught in the wrong place at the wrong time and that Mr. Ewell is taking advantage of being able to press charges because he is black. This is significant because Atticus is asking the jury to forget the racial prejudices of the time and try this case as if prejudice did not exist.
    2.Jem's reaction is important because it shows that not all people have the common prejudice views of that time period. He wants a black man to be found not guilty. It also shows that Jem has a mature understanding of the world. He is upset that Tom was found guilty because he was black not because he was actually guilty. Jem finds this unfair that the jury could do this to Tom.
    3. From here the book could possibly follow this to the appeal of the case. It could also simply go along with how this case affects the Finch's and the rest of Maycomb.

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  11. Atticus's closing argument is significant because he is basically telling the town their prejudices are unjust. He is not only trying to acquit Tom but show the town that their beliefs have no solid ground. Atticus tells them that not all negroes are bad similar to not all whites being bad. By saying this Atticus essential says there is nothing to support the prejudices against blacks. He is showing the town the error of their ways during his closing argument. Atticus attempts to show the town their prejudices are ludicrous. His argument is significant because he knows he will not win the trial. The purpose of him taking this case is to show the ridiculous ways of Maycomb. He essentially wants to make the town think about their beliefs and actions. Atticus's closing argument is very significant.
    Jem's reaction is significant because it shows he is still innocent. He truly believed his father would win the trial. This belief shows his innocence because he has yet to be corrupt by the beliefs of the town. Jem does not realize the town will never change and negroes will continue to be treated unjustly. His reaction is also significant because the reader witnesses a piece of Jem's innocence disappear. Jem begins to realize not all things in life are fair. He learns people will not always do the correct thing because society dictates they do otherwise. Jem's reaction reveals that he believed people always do the right thing. Although Jem is still innocent the reader sees him lose more of it through his reaction.
    The book can go many ways from chapter 21. Tom Robinson will more than likely go to jail because he found guilty. The town will probably go back to normal because the prejudices and beliefs of the town run deep. It would take a much larger event to change how the town perceives the black community. Atticus and the children may receive hate from the town because of the trial. Jem will probably continue to lose the little innocence he has left. Aunt Alexandra may learn values from the family and Scout may learn to be a lady from Alexandra. The only definite thing about the future of the book is that Jem will break his arm.

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  12. Atticus' closing argument is his final chance to use the Robinson court case to help Maycomb. The town is prejudice and Atticus knows Tom will lose. Not only will Tom lose the case, but all of Maycomb will. The Civil War was years ago and blacks are legally equal. Maycomb, however, treats blacks with disrespect. Atticus' argument wraps up what he knows is right. Maycomb is so prejudice, that they let the Ewells, the disgrace of the county, win the case.

    Jem's reaction to the verdict shows how he has grown through out the novel. He understands an innocent person has been wrongly convicted. Jem, being the younger generation, pities Tom and is not racist. He foreshadows the younger generation overthrowing the older generation's views. After all, the younger generation stopped segregation.

    The court case may be over, but its repercussions have just begun. Atticus has shown the town what a disgrace it is to condemn an innocent man, white or black. Jem's heart may cloud his brain. He may become very upset with the case's outcomes and do something foolish to show how he feels towards segregation. The book is just getting started. . .

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  13. His closing argument shows how desperate he is for the jury to recognize that Tom Robinson is innocent. He asks for people to put aside their views because court is seen as an establishment where everyone is equal until proven otherwise. Being it the south in the 1930s, without this reminder the jury might think differently.
    Jem's reaction shows how much he understands the situation and what is right versus what people want to believe.
    The book could go in several directions. The town will go back to normal but the relationship between the Finches and the Ewells will be shaken. Another way is that the town could react to Tom Robinson before the court has the chance to and maybe create a mob.

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  14. Atticus’s closing argument is significant because he said that they needed to disregard that Tom Robinson is a black man. He is going against all the prejudice and hate in Maycomb by implying that blacks and whites are equal. This is important because Atticus is going against the culture of Maycomb by saying this. He also states that there is not enough evidence to prove that Tom Robinson abused Mayella. This is also significant because it shows that this case is based purely on the fact that Mayella is white and Tom is black. There is no real reason for Tom to be in this situation.

    Jem’s reaction to the verdict is significant because he was the only white person to be in complete shock that Tom Robinson was said to be guilty. He was so certain that Atticus had put up a great argument and that there was no way he could lose. However, that was not the case, and Reverend Sykes was right about the outcome of the case.

    I think that from this point on, the book will focus on Scout becoming more mature. After something like the Tom Robinson case, surely she would have a lot of questions to ask. She also seems somewhat interested in what was happening so that could be foreshadowing towards her becoming more of an adult.

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  15. 1. The significance of Atticus's closing argument is to show the discrimination against black people and the prejustice for them too. It also shows that stereotypes are not necessarily fact and that assumptions can bring the worst out of people, in this case that blacks are not always criminals and that there are worse whites out there.

    2. The significance of Jem's reaction to the verdict shows that he is mature and is starting to understand the world around him. By Jem understanding the injustice that has taken place, he finally opens his eyes to the racist world he lives in that he had not realized.

    3. The book could go in many different ways from here. I believe that either the Ewells or the townspeople will seek revenge on Atticus for defending a black man. On the other hand, I feel as if the book may turn and race relationships may become better after this case.

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  16. Atticus stresses the injustice that Tom Robinson has been dealt to this point. This final argument shows great significance. It shows Atticus's view of negroes. We learn his view of negroes throughout the novel, but this clarifies his view of them. His view, contrary to common belief at the time, not only names both races equal, but he also proceeds to expose a brutally true fact of a flaw in the court systems of the time. He says that the jury seems to take the word of the white man over the word of the black man in every case, which shows a great degree of racism. It shows Atticus how he is different from most other white men in that time period. It shows how he truly views all people as equal and how he attempts to preach this value to his children as well.
    Jem's emotional reaction to the final verdict of the Tom Robinson trial is a sign in the successful parenting of Atticus. Even though his views of society and social norms are different from most other white fathers, he still preaches them to his children. Jem's reaction shows how he saw Tom Robinson as an equal as a white man. Not only that, but he also believes that Tom was wrongly convicted. Finally, it shows he idolizes the bravery and actions of his father. He was riled up throughout the entire trial and he was sure that they would win. This ultimately shows how he shows faith in his father.
    Based off of what has already happened in the novel, I feel as though the Finch family will receive more scrutiny than ever before. They may even receive death threats for Atticus defending negroes the way that he did. In fact, the people of Maycomb may even treat the Finch family the way that they treat the negroes. However, the negroes will be much more accepting of the Finch family.

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  17. The significance of Atticus's closing argument is to represent how this case is unfair. He explains that everyone has the same equal rights and that nobody has more power over anyone. Atticus explains the only reason they were against Tom Robinson is because he is black. There was not a further investigation to prove it was actually Tom Robinson. They just assumed Robinson was guilty because he is black and did not prove that it was actually him.

    Jem's reaction to the verdict was not like the other white people's reaction Jem started to cry because it was not fair that he was guilty when they all knew he was not.

    I believe the rest of the book will explain how Jem broke his arm because in the beginning of the novel it was explaining the whole situation. Also, the end of the novel may touch upon how blacks are treated unfairly and there is no hope for Tom Robinson after being called guilty.

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  18. Attitucs' closing arguments are our first clear statements made about the discrimination in Maycomb. He comes right out and let's the entire courtroom understand the reality of their actions. He knew there was little chance of him winning, but he would still do all he can to prove Tom Robinson is not guilty. Atticus uses this speech to remind everyone that equality is now emphasized, not discouraged. There is no reason to judge a perfectly innocent black man when he has all evidence proving there was no crime committed. The speech lays out the format of prejudice actions in Maycomb and explains the importance of equality in the trial. Jem's reaction to the verdict exhibits the opinion of anyone learning about this trial for the first time. A completely unbiased party would react as Jem did, because it is clear that Robinson was being punished for nothing. After the trial, I believe more people will open their eyes to the discrimination. They will respect Atticus for the way he strongly represented Tom and will feel guilt for allowing such an unfair decision to be made. Jem and Scout will realize the way society works, and become more like their father, respecting what he did.

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  19. The significance of Atticus closing argument is that he knows the people will judge Tom Robinson based on his race. Even if the facts are there they will judge him. He tries telling them everyone is equal and is the same.
    When Jem finds out the answer of the verdict he is rather shocked and stormed out of the courtroom. Jem thought for sure his dad has won Tom Robinson's case.
    The book may go more Into when Mayella gave her side of the story and how she was hesitant when asking if her father ever hit her, and if she was lying under oath.

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  20. In Atticus's closing argument, he tells the jury to look at the evidence they have been presented and do the right thing by acquitting Tom Robinson. He restates all the information they need to know in order to come to a verdict. He is also in a bigger picture telling the jury that all people are created equal, regardless of color. This is one of the major morals of the story.

    Jem is very distraught when he learns of the verdict because he understands what is going happening. This recognizes that he has matured throughout the book and has learned his lesson on prejudice. This case makes him realize that it is not okay to do, which makes him upset. He has grown throughout the book and this scene emphasizes this.

    After the trials, I think that Boo Radley will appear again because they are learning about prejudice. One of the initial prejudices involved Boo Radley so it would make sense for him to be brought back again.

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  21. Atticus removes his lawyer clothes to symbolize his last address is as a fellow citizen, not as the defendants lawyer. He goes against all social norms in search of truth, and in order to convince the jury, he speaks from a logical and sense of love, rather than a sense of the outright breaking of tradition, which would enrage the jurors.
    Jem's reaction to the verdict is the final indication that Jem has become grown up. His reasoning is beyond the adults in the room, and his thoughts go way beyond the human tradition and into the human condition. We see his crying as a surrender to the truth, not a childish gesture, but one of a truly passionate man. Jem has certainly grown.
    The trial is going to be a realization for the town and Maycomb county. The verdict shows an unwillingness to change, but the reaction of a few show that there is at least compassion. At the very least, I think the the town will look at the Ewells as cowardly and even less respectively.


    At least I hope so.. <-- don't grade that sentence as part of my response- please.

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  22. Atticus' argument is significant because he plays on what the jury wants to hear. He explains his faith in them, which would make most men want to prove that they are as good as he expects. Lee does this in order to make the trial more dramatic. Since the arguments are so close, it adds suspense to the story, and makes the reader want to continue. This also would create a win for Atticus more understandable, since the odds were so small, or a win for Mr. Gilmer more unfair, since Atticus' closing ceremony was so effective.

    The significance of Jem's reaction is that children can identify what is right and what is wrong. His ideas of justice and law were broken.The hatred and prejudice from the Ewells and the jury have taken Jem's childhood, and youthful thinking.

    The book can move forward by teaching a lesson to Jem and Scout that life is full of disappointments, but a person can learn from them or let it bring them down. They can also learn about growing up and how childhood doesn't last forever. The book can also create future problems between the Finch and Ewell family. Overall, there are a few outcomes that are possible.

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  23. Atticus has a clear and wise understanding as to how the world works. Humanity's flaws are not as simple as black vs white. Atticus realizes that people are equally capable of great goodness and terrible evil and this gives the book a clear, more mature view on the case. Atticus does not just see the good because he has never known any evil but because of his faith in mankind. This faith is significant because it provides an adult perspective since the story has been told from the view of Scout's innocent eyes. Soon though, she will have to adopt these views as the story progresses and she matures.

    Jem cannot fathom how unfair and cruel the world can truly be. His illusions of law and justice have been completely obliterated. Now because of the prejudice and hatred that is all around him, he is silenced and turned into yet another mockingbird in the story. Jem's youthful idealisms, innocence, and childhood have been stripped from him and therefore leaving him heartbroken and shattered.

    The scene in which Bob Ewell declares to seek revenge on Atticus may foreshadow a new rising conflict. Also I believe Boo Radely will come back when he is least expected but most needed.

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  24. 1. The significance of Atticus' closing argument is that it was his final push to get the jury to believe that Tom Robinson was innocent. You can see his final last ditch efforts to try to prove Tom innocent.
    2. Jem's reaction shows that even a child can see that Tom was innocent and it was Mr. Ewell whom beat Mayella. This shows also how swayed the jury was.
    3. The book will get really boring again, but it will show more racism. More so from the black people now because of the outcome of this case. The blacks will get a lot meaner towards the white people. The Finch's might also be outcasts with the whole town because he took up protecting Tom in the first place and he didn't win the trial so both the black and white communities are going to outcast the Finch's.

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  25. In Atticus' closing argument, he makes his final statements about the case. While doing this, he talks broadly about racism in the town, and the prejudices that the town has acquired. He explains to people that these prejudices should not be allowed to determine the fate of an innocent man, just because of his race. Although Atticus knows that, as of now, the jury will convict an innocent black man, he still believes that a there is hope for the town to change their racism and prejudice. He uses his closing argument as a way to speak to the town, and try to convince them of their wrong doings.

    Jem is shocked, confused, and devastated by the trial's verdict. He believed the entire time that Tom Robinson would be found "not guilty". This shows that Jem does not understand the extend of the racism that goes on around him everyday. He has not been fully exposed to the harsh reality that black men will not have equal opportunities in court. Jem takes after his father and is compassionate towards colored people. He believes that if you committed a crime, you should be punished, no matter your race.

    From here I believe that novel will go into more depth about the aftermath of the trial. It will describe how the town and Atticus will react to the verdict. The novel will also most likely talk more about Boo Radley. He was the main focus of Part One, and the concept of him does not seem to be finished.

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  26. Atticus’s closing argument is significant to the novel because it shows the other side of his character. From the beginning of the novel Atticus has been an unbiased and calm character. In his closing argument Atticus shows compassion not seen in the rest of the book. He confronts the jury on what the reader is thinking. He points out the fact that the case is only an issue because of the color of the defendants skin. The scene of significance is an attack on the people of Maycomb and racism. He attacks the jury and tries to make them see how their racism is clouding their judgement. His statement, although it loses the case, wins a victory over the town of Maycomb.
    Jem’s reaction to the verdict means he believed they would. This is significant because Jem is mature, and sees that the verdict is not right. Scout never thought that they would win, because she still has her prejudices and intolerances. Jem is no longer part of the Maycomb way of thinking. He has developed his own morals and the fact that he disagrees with the verdict shows how his character has evolved even more than Scout.
    The town of Maycomb and its people have been insulted and attacked. Atticus left a mark on many of the people in the courtroom and it will affect the town greatly. Mr. Ewell will probably want revenge because he was made a fool of. Tom Robinson will be sent to jail and possibly killed by the state. The town of Maycomb is changed forever and in upcoming chapters it will be shown in the people.

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  27. The significance of Atticus's closing argument is the message Atticus attempts to give to the jury. The jury is made up of white people from a racist town. Atticus realizes that while Tom clearly is innocent, the jury will likely convict him. Atticus, in his argument, tries to tell the jury that all men, blacks and whites, are equal amongst the court. The significance of Jem's reaction is that he shows the fair opinion of the trial amongst the white community. The Finch family already is known for going against the town's values, but Jem shows the true way the white community should feel. Jem and the Finch family are the only whites showing grief over the verdict, Tom Robinson's conviction. Regardless of the facts being greatly in his favor, the racist jury of white people still convicts the "lesser" man. Jem shows the deserved feelings of the white community. Later in the book, the Finch family may be befriended by the black community more, the white community may become more upset with the Finches, and Jem may finally break his arm.

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  28. I think the significance of Atticus's closing argument is that it shows no matter what he did no matter what he changed or attempted to do different there was no swaying the vote against a black person. This is a sad realization that a man can be convicted when all the evidence is leaning his way and the only thing against him is the fact that he is black. We see Atticus get loose when talking to the jury as if he were talking to a man on a street corner. Even though this shows that Atticus is able to act different and think different from the town there was no possible way he had a chance at swaying a jury of white people to not convict a negro.

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  29. Jem's reaction is that it is like every guilty that was called out was a different stab wound to him. The significance of this is that Jem is finally growing up and becoming mature. Jem is able to separate from Scout in Dill in that they really don't comprehend what is happening and they aren't upset when they hear the verdict. Also, another significant factor that comes out of this is Jem is finally freed from the talk and prejudice of the town. At last Jem has become more like Atticus as a result of this court case and sees black people as Atticus does rather than the town.

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  30. Im not totally sure where the book can go from here being that the court case I believed the whole book revolved around ended. However, I think we will see some results of the court case meaning angry people who want to hurt or befriend the Finch family because of this. Also, we are going to possibly see the reactions of Dill and Scout and how they act in result to the trial. Also, It might tell us what happens to Jem further in his life, and it will definitely talk about Aunt Alexandra's effect on the family and if she will go away or stay with them for a longer period of time.

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  31. I believe that the most significant part of his closing argument is when he pleads to the jury about what true justice is. He tells the jury that not all blacks are criminals.We the reader already have seen prejudice views throughout the book this is a scene when Atticus shows to not only the reader but the rest of the people that he is against prejudice.

    Jem is crying over Atticus losing the case. this is significant because he isnt crying just because he lost the case or because he knows that he will more than likely be made fun of more by other kids. I believe he is cying because that he has matured and is now begging to understand how cruel the idea of being prejudice is.

    nowhere books don't have legs

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  32. Atticus's closing argument is significant, because of the way he spoke to the people instead of just reciting all the facts only. He talks intimately to the town about how there is good and evil in all people whether they are black or white. Race does not make you good or evil; it's all in the individual. Atticus tries to get the town to look at the evidence without prejudice and tries to convince the town that Tom is innocent and their discriminating ways don't have any truth to them. If he had just given a normal closing speech without the ending part where he took off his jacket to show that he is just another townsfolk, then the town wouldn't have learned anything from this case. He choice to stand up for what is right no matter what anyone says is an important part of the story. It makes up the main themes of good versus evil, and prejudice and hate gets us nowhere. Also the way he said it was important. Coming straight out and saying "you are all wrong" wouldn't have done anything but spark tempers. his simple and easy to understand way of persuading the court to listen to him was really effective, but it is the towns first step away from segregation, so that is why the verdict was still guilty.

    Chapter 21 ends with Atticus leaving the courtroom and the Negroes standing in respect. The book hasn't really given Jem a chance to react to the verdict. I'm guessing that he will in the next chapter, but from even the way Scout describes his face during the reveal of the verdict, I can say something.
    Scout was surprised at Jem's reaction to it. She described his hands as white from gripping the railing so hard and each guilty looking like a separate stab to Jem's body. This is significant, because he is different from the other whites who think the guilty is music to their ears. He is young enough to not understand why whites are separate from blacks, but old enough to understand what is happening is very wrong. He's just like Dill who had to leave the court crying. They understand the situation in a different way than the adults giving them a unique perspective. Except for a few white adults (like Atticus and Mr. Dolphus Raymond), everyone would view the kids as naive and stupid when they are really the wise ones.

    The book could go two ways from here depending one whose point of view you believe in more. 1. It could be full of despair. This is the point of view of Mr. Dolphus Raymond. The only reason he pretends to be a drunk is because he lives with Negroes and wants to make others think he doesn't know better as to not disturb their ways. He believes the real town of Maycomb is the one that discriminates and hates. 2. It could be hopeful. This is the point of view of Atticus. He believes there is hope for the town; that he could help bring them to the light and change their ways. He was trying to do this in the courtroom when he was talking about how race doesn't matter. We all are humans and "every man is created equal" -Thomas Jefferson. He has a positive view on the town where he believes everyone has good and evil in them; you just have to find the good.
    Personally, I think it's going to lean towards the second outcome more than the first, because the book is trying to teach everyone a lesson about discrimination. It was published in the 1950s when there were too many equal rights, so it is trying to show everybody their wrong doings and how good everything would be if they would make them right. For this reason, I think there will be a positive solution at the end.

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  33. 1.) Atticus's closing remarks point out how the state assumes all black people are criminals. He wants others to realize what people make out blacks to be when they aren't like the assumptions.

    2.) Jem was very confident that Tom Robinson would be found unguilty. But, the jury finds him guilty. Jem is very upset that he is guilty,he realizes that the world has evil. He is crushed because he is less childlike than his sister. He was crushed because he sees the coruption in the world.

    3.) I think the book will have issues with the Finch family because of Atticus's case. The town will start to treat them differently and Scout and Jem will see more evil in the world.

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  34. The significance of Atticus’s closing argument, was that is was one last push to win over the Jury, by touching their hearts. The facts were obviously in favor of Tom Robinson, but the tradition was not. Atticus’s closing argument’s purpose was to try to win the hearts of the people. Although by doing this Atticus made them think. Atticus made the jury think, we know this because the verdict took so long. This shows that he did get through a little to the people in the jury.

    The significance of Jems reaction is that is shows how children are innocent, so much that they cannot accept evil. They see humans as humans, not as property, uselessness, or a disgrace. Even though Jem is more mature in his ability to understand people, he still has his innocence in terms of good and bad. He sees bad, and has knowledge of it, but cannot accept it within himself. This reveals a parallel to Atticus. Atticus sees evil, and good, but cannot accept evil, so he brings himself to fight it. The signifigance of Jem’s reaction is that is shows how innocence is still retained, even though the child is knowledgeable of the evil.

    The book “To Kill a Mockingbird” has the ability to go in a number of different directions. There is a possibility that there might be an appeal. There could be arguments between Mr. Ewell, and Atticus. From what the reader has seen, Mr. Ewell seeks revenge and is a violent man. We may even see Jem take action by himself out of frustration for injustice. Jem still hasn't broken his arm yet, and thats what the story is about. Lastly, we may see a mockingbird killed, in Scout. A father is most protective of his daughter. If Mr. Ewell becomes violent, he may harm Scout, instead of Atticus. He may commit crimes in front of her. But Mr. Ewell could target Scout to cause pain in Atticus, because Atticus doesn't care about himself, he cares about others. Mr. Ewell wants to do the most pain to Atticus as possible. Especially after Atticus ruined the Ewell name.

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  35. Atticus' closing argument is significant because it was his final push or attrmpt to save Tom Robinson. His final verdict is where we get to see a different side of Atticus. We see him take off his jacket and undo his tie. This shows us that he is able to relate to his audience.

    Jem's reaction to the verdict is significant because even he knows that the verdict is wrong. Even he realizes that the verdict is incorrect. If he can realize that it is wrong then that shows that the adults should be able to to.

    I think the book can progress by explaining the fallout if the trial. This trial can lead to a divide in the town which Lee can eexplain

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  36. The significance of Atticus closing arguments was to show how ingerent , racist, and stuip the allegations against Tom Robinson was. He didn't and couldn't of raped Mayella because it was physically and emotionally impossibly for him to do so. The charges were purely based on the color of his skin. He was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.
    Jems reaction to the verdict shows his growing maturity. He was able to understand the trial and ready get into it. It shows that he is becoming more like Atticus also. He sees things for what they really are.
    It is going to life after the trial. How the town acts and feels. We will also see sides of Maycomb that we didn't expect.


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  37. The significance of Atticus closing statement shows the ugliness in humanity. Atticus knew that just because his defendant was black that he would be convicted, yet he still attempts to appeal to the jury's sense of justice. Atticus understands the goodness and evil that live inside of people, and seeks for the humane qualities to venture out. He explains the evil assumptions people make about Negros based on the color of their skin. Atticus mentions the statement “All men are created equal”, but are only equal in court. He indirectly states that Tom is innocent and speaks to the jury telling them to let the case be justified by the facts and evidence, not skin color.

    The significance of Jem’s reaction to the verdict is the demise of the innocence of his childhood. As the novel progressed, Jem’s character matured significantly. Yet, throughout his life Jem was sheltered from the forces of prejudice and hatred that the townspeople acquire. With the inevitable evidence Atticus reveals, Jem becomes completely confident in Atticus winning the trial. As the jury states their verdict, Jem’s illusions of justice and law are obliterate and he loses his ignorance to the social issues.

    As the book continues, it will present the aftermaths of the trial and the reactions of other characters will be revealed. The reader will see the actions of Jem and Scout after the major loss of their innocence, alluding to the death of a mockingbird. Lee will exhibit the possible change of the townspeople after Atticus’s statement. The novel will evolve the character of Boo Radley in a critical moment, opposing the prejudices of the town.

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  38. The significance of Atticus' closing argument is that his speech captures the human essence with a blend of reasoning and emotion perfectly , yet the jury declares Tom Robinson guilty because of their prejudice. Because Atticus' closing argument successfully makes the jury think of their verdict and unsuccessfully makes them convict Tom Robinson, this repetition of human nature is decided as good and bad. Atticus is giving the jury the decision to decide whether they believe in the bad side of human nature if they decide Tom is guilty because they would be lying or they believe in the good side of human nature if they decide Tom is innocent because it would be the truth. And the verdict shows the depth of the prejudice in Maycomb's while community since the jury would put an innocent to death.

    The significance of Jem's reaction to the verdict is that Jem is crying because he finally understands the full extent of the social issues in Maycomb. To him Atticus was going to win and Tom Robinson proven innocent plain and simple. Jem understands the injustice of the trial and this will impact the rest of his life.

    The book can follow the impact of the trail in the community. Jem might not trust for justice to follow through after the trial. The Ewells might always be bitter to the Finches because Atticus made Mayella and Mr. Ewell self proclaim themselves as liars in the trial. From their hatred an altercation might occur where Jem might break his arm.

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  39. Atticus's closing statements in the court case involving the Tom Robinson and Ewell's were very significant to the case itself and the story. His closing statement that we should disregard the fact that Tom is black basically made the case irrelevant due to the fact that the case is actually based the fact that Bob Ewell want Tom gone. But he covered up this idea by saying Tom Robinson raped his daughter.

    Jem's reaction to the courts verdict is just as significant. Jem is the only white person in the who audience to be sad about the verdict. He sided with the blacks feelings for the case and thus felt sad like they did.

    We might one day figure out how Jem broke his arm in the beginning of the story.

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  40. Atticus closing argument is showing the jury and the courtroom how corrupt society is. He is showing them events in history that shows all are equal. This is really significant because it shows how Tom and Atticus look at past events on how a black man wont win even tho he is innocent. This last argument shows the final haul to convince the jury not to convict this man because of his color.

    Jems reaction shows his maturity but also still behind on grasping concepts. Jem thought the case was closed as soon as Atticus presented the evidence. He thought it would take little time for the jury to conclude a verdict. He kept stating that we won we won there is no way they could ignore the evidence. He didn't take into count the racism and past history. People where stating im not so sure a black man doesn't win against a white man. This shows how Jem isn't fully grasping some concepts.

    I feel like the book will go with the black community acting violently and protesting. Along with Jem and Atticus having discussion and the Fitch name being hated on.

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  41. part 1-

    Atticus' closing article is significant because he sums up the trial. Also he is proving once again that he is the right man for the case. He has proved that he does not care about skin color. He only sees a man who is innocent. He has been a great defense attorney and he has tried his best to defend him. The main significance of this is so that it proves the type of man he truely is

    Part 2-

    The significance of Jems reaction is because he is becoming a man. However he still has some of his childlike traits in him. He does not yet understand why the case is based on the fact of skin color and not hard evidence. He is old enough to understand what the trial is about. He knows the info they are debating over but does not understand why the evidence makes no difference. He is slowly becomming a man and at the same time holding onto his childhood.

    Part 3-

    The book can go in many directions. I believe it will go to another trial. They will go to state court to appeal. Hopefully he will finally get whats right for Tom. He will bot rest until he clears his name. Bob may even be the mockingbird they are trying to kill in the title.

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  42. The significance of Atticus closing argument shows what kind of person he really is. He was assigned to the case of Tom Robinson and knew he was going to lose the moment it was assigned. He supported Tom the whole way through and supported the blacks despite the racism in Maycomb. The significance of Jem's reaction to the verdict shows how he is finally maturing throughout the book. It also show how he developed as a little kid and now turned into a man. The rest of the book from here can finally tell us how Jem broke his arm.

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  43. Atticus's closing argument is very important. During his last statement he tells the jury that they should look at the trial without prejudice and to only look at the facts that were presented before them. Atticus told the jury that they should make their decision without involving their opinions on blacks and whites. They shouldn't just convict Tom Robinson because he is a black man, and they shouldn't believe the Ewells just because they are white. By stating these things he also reveals racism in Maycomb. He exposes the town as judgmental racists that would knowing convict an innocent man just because of the color of his skin. That's why Atticus's speech is significant. He exposes everybody as they truly are.
    When the verdict is reached, Jem is very upset and he starts to cry. During the trial, Jem makes many comments to himself about Atticus's evidence. At one point he whispers to himself "We've got him.", thinking that his father was able to convince the jury that Tom was innocent. When he hears that Tom is guilty, he is shocked. Jem believed that his father could win the case, but that was because Jem didn't look at the trial with prejudice. It didn't matter to Jem that Mayella and Bob were white, and that Tom was black. This shows that even though we see Jem maturing as a character, he still has his innocence. He didn't realize how cruel the world could be.
    Now that the trial is over, the book will focus back on the children, since we still have to find out how Jem broke his arm. Boo Radley will most likely come back into the book, and the trial won't be the main focus anymore.

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  44. Atticus's closing arguments are important because they make the jury go in and think about it for a while. The words help to further clear his point in Tom Robinson was clear of all the charges. Jem's reaction was important because it showed that he was really hoping that the man was innocent and showed he is growing up and realizing that the world doesn't always go the way you want it to. The book can go that more people are making fun of Atticus and helping people make fun of the Finch family.

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  45. Atticus' closing argument shows to everyone in the court room that they are racist. He proved that there's no way it was Tom who raped Mayella, but Maycomb still thinks he's guilty, and the jury has a unanimous guilty vote - all because Tom is black, so of course it had to be him.

    Jem's reaction to the court case shows him losing innocence. He can't believe that people could be that cruel over the color of someones skin. He loses his faith in the people of Maycomb, and sees that humanity isn't as good as he thought it was as a child. Jem's innocence is gone and this emotional reaction shows how he sees the world now.

    I can see Jem becoming like his father, Atticus, in many aspects. He isn't a follower of who Maycomb says he should be and is already different. Jem sees the wrong in all of these people, a very close one to him being racism. The people of Maycomb are prejudiced horribly, and Jem knows it's not right and refuses to believe that it is. I think we will see Jem mature more and become rebellious, sticking up for his beliefs around people who think the complete opposite.

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  46. 1. In his closing remarks, Atticus never mentions Tom Robinson's character. He only uses evidence from the court and comments on the prosectuion's very shaky case. Also, he seems to have (what some would say) a very immature hope for the town's moral structure.

    2. Jem is quite angry, to be vague. He is frustrated and confused by the fact that the jury could not see that Tom Robinson was innocent, and it futhured the innocense theme.

    3. I'm pretty sure this book could only go down hill from it's current point. And by down I mean, falling action.

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