To Kill A Mockingbird Truth Vs Reality Analysis

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In Harper Lee's novel, To Kill A Mockingbird many themes are identifiable. Among those themes is Truth vs. Reality. Within this novel, what is considered "true" is constantly shifting to bring forth a new "reality". During Tom Robinson's trial, Truth vs. Reality is exemplified through Tom’s guilt, the relationship between Tom and Mayella, and Mayella’s relationship with her father.
First, Tom’s guilt appears to exist even before the trial began. In truth, many find Tom to be guilty since he fits into the stereotypical black man persona of the time. Since Tom is a black man, there was no need for actual proof that he did anything. In Atticus’s closing speech, “‘..The state has not produced one iota of medical evidence to the effect that the …show more content…

In truth, Mayella tells the court that her father is “tollable,” (245) except when he is drunk. She also states that he has never beaten or touched her. In reality, Tom’s testimony proves that Mayella and her father have an incestuous and abusive relationship. In fact, Mayella turns to Tom because in that situation she retains control, unlike the situation with her father. Atticus hints at the incestuous relationship, “‘...What did her father do? We don’t know, but there is circumstantial evidence to indicate that Mayella Ewell was beaten savagely by someone who led most exclusively with his left. We do know what Mr.Ewell did in part:.. he swore out a warrant no doubt signing it with his left hand, and Tom Robinson… having taken oaths with the one good hand he possesses- his right hand,” (272-273). Atticus shifts the blame towards Bob Ewell, who dominates with his left hand. Again, this circumstantial evidence does not point towards Tom Robinson. As a boy, Tom’s left arm had gotten caught in a machine and it caused it to be unworkable. Since Tom needed both of his arms to commit the alleged rape, there is no possible way he could have done

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