False Stereotypes In Monster By Walter Dean Myers

The characteristics of individuals affect the way others perceive them. Monster by Walter Dean Myers is an example of this perception, leading to false stereotypes. The condemnation of people on trial is predetermined. Steve Harmon believes this to be true. He is constantly called a monster on trial, and he believes he is one. The characters, appearances, and testimonies of Steve Harmon, as well as others on the trial, were detrimental to the outcome of the trial. Firstly, the character of each individual on trial had a lasting impact on the outcome of the trial. Steve is not like others who appear in the courtroom. His character is acceptable. Steve has a more solemn attitude, while the others are apathetic. The text states, “Bobo’s testimony hurt a lot and that she had to find a way to separate me from King, but King’s lawyer wanted to make sure the jury connected us because I looked like a pretty decent guy.” Steve was different from the others on trial. The judgmental jury, critical and direct, used the characteristics of individuals on the trial to determine the outcome of the trial. …show more content…

The finite assumptions of people based on appearance sway the trial in an unprecedented direction. The jury’s view of people on trial is based on appearance. The text states, from Kathy O’Brien, Steve’s attorney, “My job is to make sure the law works for you as well as against you, and to make you a human being in the eyes of the jury.” Petrocelli called Steve a monster throughout the trial. Steve and the jury believe this accusation. Steve faces the complication of finding separation between him and the others on the trial. Steve was stereotyped because he was black, leading to