Mayella Ewell is a complex character in many ways. On the one hand, most readers are rightly frustrated with her for falsely representing the truth and playing a large part in condemning Tom Robinson to death. However, it's also apparent that Mayella leads a hard, desolate life devoid of autonomy, dignity, and a voice. Examples of Mayella's voicelessness come out clearly in the trial, as is evidenced by this passage from Chapter 18:
"Did you...
Mayella Ewell is a complex character in many ways. On the one hand, most readers are rightly frustrated with her for falsely representing the truth and playing a large part in condemning Tom Robinson to death. However, it's also apparent that Mayella leads a hard, desolate life devoid of autonomy, dignity, and a voice. Examples of Mayella's voicelessness come out clearly in the trial, as is evidenced by this passage from Chapter 18:
"Did you scream first at your father instead of at Tom Robinson? Was that it?"
No answer.
"Who beat you up? Tom Robinson or your father?"
No answer. (190)
In this section, Atticus tries to get Mayella to admit to the truth of what happened. However, Mayella either cannot or will not answer. Her silence is puzzling until we consider the deeper facts of her character: as a member of one of the poorest families in Maycomb, Mayella is isolated because of her class and is looked down on by other, more prosperous members of the community. Additionally, as a woman, she is vulnerable to being abused by her alcoholic father (and indeed, it seems like she is abused fairly regularly). As such, it's hardly surprising that Mayella is unable to admit to the truth. She's already reviled by everyone in town, and she has no one kind to turn to. Therefore, Mayella is effectively voiceless, as she cannot freely speak her mind or express the truth as she would probably like to, as she risks damaging her already tarnished reputation. This fact doesn't make her actions any more palatable, but it does make it easier to understand her a little better.
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