Discussion Questions for "To Kill a Mockingbird": The Trial of Tom Robinson
As part of our reading and analysis of To Kill a Mockingbird, we will delve into the trial of Tom Robinson. This pivotal event not only highlights themes of racism and injustice but also shapes the characters and plotting of the novel.
Here are three discussion questions to guide our conversation:
Question 1: What Role Does Racial Injustice Play in Tom Robinson's Trial?
- Discussion Points:
- How does the setting of Maycomb, Alabama, contribute to the racial dynamics of the trial?
- What evidence is presented during the trial that highlights the bias of the court and the community?
- How do the societal norms of the 1930s South impact the outcome of the trial?
Question 2: How Are the Characters of Atticus Finch and Bob Ewell Contrasted in the Trial Scenes?
- Discussion Points:
- What are Atticus Finch's motivations during the trial, and how do they reflect his values?
- In what ways does Bob Ewell embody the prejudices of the community?
- How does the contrast between Atticus and Bob Ewell reveal deeper themes in the novel, such as morality, honor, and truth?
Question 3: What Impact Does the Trial Have on the Characters of Scout and Jem Finch?
- Discussion Points:
- How do Scout and Jem's perceptions of justice and morality evolve throughout the trial?
- In what ways do their experiences during the trial challenge their childhood innocence?
- How does the trial serve as a catalyst for their understanding of empathy and human complexity?
Feel free to reflect on your thoughts and perspectives regarding these questions as we prepare for our class discussion. Your insights will enrich our learning experience!