TKAM 20-21

Hey Kittens,

I am so excited for Monday's class!  The plot is really heating up.  Here are my notes:

Chapter 20

-Mr. Dolphus Raymond - Don't judge this book by it's cover, just ask Dil!. 

-Scout asks why he does such a thing, and Mr. Raymond explains he feels he has to give the population some reason for his life choices. 

-Mr. Raymond believes it's easier for people to handle one's differences when they have a reason to explain it. 

-He says he thinks that children like Dill, who is so upset over the trial, haven't lost the instinct that tells them that it's wrong for white people to "give hell" to black people without consideration for their basic humanity.  GO DOLPHUS!

-Atticus gives his closing remarks:

 Atticus explains that the case is very simple, because there is no medical evidence and very questionable testimony to prove Tom's guilt. \

Atticus explains that Mayella has, "broken a rigid and time-honored code of our society" by attempting to seduce a black man. He acknowledges her poverty and ignorance, but says, "I cannot pity her: she is white." 

-He explains that Mayella followed her desires even though she was aware of the social taboos against her actions. 

-Having broken one of society's strictest codes, she chose to, "put the evidence of her offense," namely Tom Robinson, away from her by testifying against him. Atticus accuses Mayella of trying to rid herself of the source of her own guilt.
- He suggests Ewell beat her
-Takes off his coat and addresses the jury as if he's talking to  them in his living room.
-He reminds them that there are honest and dishonest people, regardless of color
-Wants them to be honest!
-Calpurnia rushes to the front of the courtroom

Chapter 21

-Cal hands him a note from Aunty...Where are the kids?  (They've been gone all day, and she just notices now?????????????)
-PPl in the courthouse point them out.
-After dinner, return for verdict
 -Everyone is silent and still, and Scout feels the sensation of chilliness in the room. 
-Scout notices that not a single member of the jury looks at Tom, and she takes this as a bad sign. Meanwhile, she and Jem can't believe that anyone could convict Tom.......he is so clearly innocent.
-It was a unanimous vote!
All the black people in the balcony rise to their feet to honor Atticus as he passes them.  They are grateful for his effort!

If you think things are INTENSE now....just wait for the rest of the novel!

PLEASE READ 22-23 FOR WEDNESDAY, 4/29