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To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter Reflections 16-21
Chapter 16
1. Atticus is in disagreement with Aunt Alexandra over many things. Discuss at least two matters of
disagreement and each one’s position or point of view.
2. What are the rumours about Dolphus Raymond? Why are his kids so sad?
3. If Atticus is being told to defend Tom, why does he not tell the kids?
4. What is Judge Taylor like as a person and how does his appearance contrast himself as a person?
5. How does Reverend Sykes help the children see and hear the trial? Is he right to help them?
Chapter 17
1. Atticus spends a great deal of time discussing Mayella Ewell’s injuries. Give some detail of what
her injuries were, and indicate what he seems to want to reveal.
2. The Ewells are “poor white trash.” Explain this term according to what you know about the way
they live and the kind of people they have appeared to be up to this point in the novel.
3. Why does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to write out his name? What does the jury see when he does?
4. How does Scout feel about watching Atticus in court?
Chapter 18
1. Mayella Ewell is both disgusting and pathetic. Give examples of both qualities by quoting
statements she makes.
2. Why does Mayella think Atticus is insulting and sassing her?
3. How does Mr. Gilmer prove Tom’s guilt in the eyes of the reader (you) and in the eyes of the jury?
May you suggest why these might be different?
Chapter 19
1. In contrast to the Ewells, what kind of person is Tom Robinson? Explain with evidence.
2. Why does Atticus mention Tom’s previous record of conviction?
4. What is so important about Tom’s physical appearance? What, according to his testimony, does
this physical condition prove beyond a doubt?
5. According to Tom’s testimony, what actually happened on 21 November? Be specific.
6. Why was it a mistake that Tom said he felt “sorry” for Mayella?
7. Why does Scout think that Mayella Ewell was “the loneliest person in the world” and that she was
“even lonelier than Boo Radley”?
Chapter 20
1. It is known that people who drink alcohol in public will do so by placing the bottle in a paper bag.
Why does Dolphus Raymond hide Coca-Cola in a bag?
2. What, according to Atticus, is the thing that Mayella has done wrong?
3. Explain in your own words Atticus’ views on people being equal.
Chapter 21
1. What does Jem think the verdict will be? Does Atticus think the same?
2. What is unusual about how long it takes the Jury to reach a verdict? Is it predictable or not?
3. As Scout waits for the verdict, she thinks of earlier events. What are they and why are they
important to central themes?
4. Why do the black people stand when Atticus leaves the courtroom?