Chapter 18: Mayella Ewell's Testimony
In this pivotal chapter of To Kill a Mockingbird, the trial continues with Mayella Ewell taking the stand. The nineteen-year-old appears reasonably clean by Ewell standards and visibly terrified as she recounts her version of events.
Mayella testifies that she invited Tom Robinson into her yard to break up a dresser for a nickel. She claims that once inside the house, Tom grabbed her and took advantage of her.
Highlight: Mayella's testimony reveals the harsh realities of her life, including seven unhelpful siblings, a drunken father, and a complete lack of friends.
Atticus Finch's cross-examination skillfully exposes inconsistencies in Mayella's story. He questions why she didn't put up a stronger fight, why her screams didn't alert her siblings, and most crucially, how Tom Robinson, with his disabled left hand, could have inflicted injuries on the right side of her face.
Quote: Atticus pleads with Mayella, "I want you to tell us the truth—did Bob Ewell beat you up?"
Mayella's response is emotional and defiant. She refuses to answer further questions and challenges the courtroom, implying they would be cowards not to convict Tom Robinson.
The chapter concludes with the prosecution resting its case, and Atticus calling his sole witness—Tom Robinson.
Chapter 19: Tom Robinson's Testimony
This chapter presents Tom Robinson's account of the events, offering a stark contrast to Mayella's testimony. Tom's version paints a different picture of what transpired on the evening in question.
Tom testifies that he frequently passed the Ewell house on his way to work and often helped Mayella with chores at her request. On the day of the alleged incident, he recounts being invited inside to fix a door, only to find nothing wrong with it.
Highlight: Tom's testimony reveals that Mayella had sent her siblings away, using her saved money to buy them ice cream, leaving her alone in the house.
According to Tom, Mayella asked him to retrieve a box from a dresser. When he climbed on a chair to reach it, Mayella grabbed his legs, startling him. She then hugged him and asked for a kiss. As she struggled, Bob Ewell appeared at the window, hurling threats and insults. Terrified, Tom fled the scene.
Quote: Tom recalls Bob Ewell's words, "You goddamn whore, I'll kill ya."
The prosecution's cross-examination of Tom is aggressive. Mr. Gilmer, the prosecutor, brings up Tom's past arrest for disorderly conduct and questions his motives for helping Mayella. A pivotal moment occurs when Tom states he felt sorry for Mayella, a sentiment that unsettles the courtroom due to the prevailing racial attitudes in Maycomb.
Vocabulary: Mulatto - A term used historically to refer to a person of mixed white and black ancestry, considered offensive in modern usage.
The intensity of the questioning affects Dill, who begins to cry. Scout takes him out of the courtroom, where they encounter Mr. Dolphus Raymond, known for his unconventional lifestyle.
Chapter 20: Closing Arguments and Revelations
This chapter brings the trial to its climax with Atticus Finch's powerful closing argument. Before returning to the courtroom, Scout and Dill have an enlightening interaction with Mr. Dolphus Raymond.
Highlight: Mr. Raymond reveals that he pretends to be a drunk to provide the townspeople with an explanation for his choice to live among black people, whom he prefers to whites.
Back in the courtroom, Atticus delivers his closing remarks, systematically dismantling the prosecution's case. He emphasizes the lack of medical evidence and the unreliability of the state's witnesses.
Quote: Atticus appeals to the jury, "In the name of God, do your duty. In the name of God, believe Tom Robinson."
Atticus presents an alternative narrative, suggesting that Mayella, driven by loneliness and societal taboos, made advances towards Tom and then accused him of rape to cover her shame when discovered. He challenges the jury to look beyond racial prejudices and deliver true justice.
Analysis: Atticus's closing argument in the To Kill a Mockingbird trial scene serves as a powerful indictment of racial injustice and a plea for equality under the law.
The chapter ends with Calpurnia's unexpected entrance into the courtroom, leaving readers in suspense about the trial's outcome and the potential consequences for the characters involved.
