preview

Coming Of Age Quotes

Decent Essays

The classic modern American literature novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by author Harper Lee depicts the lives of main characters; Jeremy “Jem” , Jean Louise “Scout”, their father Atticus Finch, Tom Robinson and many more. In this novel, Harper Lee showcases a numerous amount of coming-of-age scenes that demonstrate how the characters are able to grow and evolve as the story continues. One significant coming-of-age scene that the author delineates is the courtroom scene. In this scene Mayella Ewell, daughter of Bob Ewell goes to court against the defendant, Tom Robinson who is accused of “raping” Mayella. Atticus is appointed by the judge to be Tom’s lawyer. In this case, Atticus exhibits logical, emotional and ethical references that bolster Tom. However, the outcome of Atticus’ work prove to be futile. Scout, Jem and Atticus exhibit their coming of age in the courtroom scene of the novel To Kill a Mockingbird.
Predominantly, Scout not only …show more content…

Jem develops a mind much like his father, Atticus throughout the book. After hearing the verdict of the trial, Jem simply could not understand how the jurors could possibly have found Tom Robinson guilty after Atticus had proven him innocent. In chapter 17 of the book it states, “Jem’s hand, which was resting on the balcony rail, tightened around it. He drew in his breath suddenly. Glancing below, I saw no corresponding reaction, and wondered if Jem was trying to be dramatic.” Jem is very concerned about the case and because he is older, he most likely have a better understanding of the significance of the trial, including the potential injustice that would result if Atticus loses the case. Additionally, Jem want to see his father fail. Jem is quite confident by the end of Chapter 17 when Atticus shows how it was more likely for a left-handed man (Mr. Ewell) to have beaten up

Get Access