Wednesday, May 21, 2014

In To Kill a Mockingbird, what's the quote Atticus makes about Thomas Jefferson?

In Chapter 20, Atticus is making his closing remarks of the trial. Atticus mentions that the prosecution has not produced any medical evidence to convict Tom Robinson, and the Ewells' contradicting testimonies prove that Tom is not guilty. Atticus urges the jury to look past their prejudiced assumptions that all black men are immoral human beings. Atticus then goes on to quote Thomas Jefferson by saying, "all men are created equal" (Lee 273)....

In Chapter 20, Atticus is making his closing remarks of the trial. Atticus mentions that the prosecution has not produced any medical evidence to convict Tom Robinson, and the Ewells' contradicting testimonies prove that Tom is not guilty. Atticus urges the jury to look past their prejudiced assumptions that all black men are immoral human beings. Atticus then goes on to quote Thomas Jefferson by saying, "all men are created equal" (Lee 273). Atticus elaborates and says that Thomas Jefferson's statement is false because people are born with different talents, abilities, and opportunities. He then tells the jury that there is one place in America where all men are considered equal, and that institution is the Supreme Court of the United States. Although each person, regardless of wealth, ability, or talent is considered equal in a court of law, the court is only as sound as the men sitting on the jury. Atticus then pleads with the jury to review Tom's case based solely on the evidence and testimonies provided, without passion or prejudice. Unfortunately, Tom Robinson becomes a victim of racial injustice after he is found guilty by the prejudiced jury.

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