http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/mocking/quiz.html
This link leads to a good quiz on the details of the book.
Friday 21 June 2013
The Trial Begins: Lee's build-up of tension
Despite the fact that the outcome of the trial seems to be decided long before it begins, Harper Lee manages to create feelings of tension and uncertainty. Much of this tension comes from the contrast between the adults' resignation to the outcome, such as Miss Maudie's refusal to attend the trial, ("Just because it's public, I don't have to go"), and Jem's faith in his father and certainty that Tom Robinson will be found innocent.
As a child like Scout would not have understood much of what happens, Lee is able to give us an idea of tension in the trial by noting the reactions of other characters, such as Jem "pounding the balcony rail softly", and "one man was leaning forwards with his hands over the railing".
At important moments in the trial, such as the signing of Bob Ewell's name, the action is slowed down and lots of detail given, which builds tension and drama. For example: "Atticus was reaching into the pocket of his coat. He drew out an envelope, then reached into his vest pocket and unclipped his fountain-pen." etc. This amount of detail gives an impression of slow motion.
The way the seating is laid out helps to show how busy the courtroom was, and how many people have come to the trial. In chapter 16, there is further build up as we see everyone arriving, showing that this will be the climax of the novel. The position of Jem and Scout allows us to see the whole court, and view everyone's actions, as well as displaying the segregation between the black and white population- the fact that Scout and Jem pay no attention to this shows how ingrained the racial difference is in Maycomb. The fact that Jem doesn't seem to understand that this is what will dictate the outcome of the trial also creates tension- we are worried about what his reaction will be to the verdict.
As a child like Scout would not have understood much of what happens, Lee is able to give us an idea of tension in the trial by noting the reactions of other characters, such as Jem "pounding the balcony rail softly", and "one man was leaning forwards with his hands over the railing".
At important moments in the trial, such as the signing of Bob Ewell's name, the action is slowed down and lots of detail given, which builds tension and drama. For example: "Atticus was reaching into the pocket of his coat. He drew out an envelope, then reached into his vest pocket and unclipped his fountain-pen." etc. This amount of detail gives an impression of slow motion.
The way the seating is laid out helps to show how busy the courtroom was, and how many people have come to the trial. In chapter 16, there is further build up as we see everyone arriving, showing that this will be the climax of the novel. The position of Jem and Scout allows us to see the whole court, and view everyone's actions, as well as displaying the segregation between the black and white population- the fact that Scout and Jem pay no attention to this shows how ingrained the racial difference is in Maycomb. The fact that Jem doesn't seem to understand that this is what will dictate the outcome of the trial also creates tension- we are worried about what his reaction will be to the verdict.
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