Compare And Contrast Tom Robinson Trial And To Kill A Mockingbird

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Harper Lee takes inspiration for her novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, from her own life experiences. The story tells about the lives of Jean Louise Finch and Jem Finch, the two children of a talented lawyer, who introduces them to racism and bigotry at a very young age. The Tom Robinson trial, similar to the Scottsboro trial, causes Jem and Scout to recognize the distinctly different types of people living in Maycomb. Man’s inhumanity to man compels Harper Lee to uncover the shameful acts of society; these injustices, especially those of the Tom Robinson trial, open Scout and Jem’s eyes to the defective perspectives held by society; reading To Kill A Mockingbird, leads me to wonder how far our society has truly come. Harper Lee addresses prejudice, tolerance, and the courage it takes to make a societal change. For instance, Harper grew up hearing the reactions and suffrage taking place during the Scottsboro trial. She takes inspiration for her novel by including an all white jury, rushed trials, and an attempted lynching in her retelling. Both the Tom Robinson trial and the Scottsboro …show more content…

For example, when Jem, Atticus and Scout are discussing the unfair verdict, I can not help but praise Atticus. Although everyone knows that Tom has little to no chance, Atticus makes an amazing case and at least attempts to to free Tom, something very few will do. He boldy takes a case which he knows is nearly impossible simply because it is the right thing. Furthermore, I believe that our society has come a long way since the 1930’s, but I also think that America is nowhere near where we should be. Although racism has decreased tremendously, it is still evident today. I think that until society as a whole learns to treat everyone with respect, America will not grow as a nation. Harper lee completely changes my views on society and makes me want to take a stand on

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