What commentary does To Kill a Mockingbird
make about the American justice system during
the Great Depression era?
To Kill a Mockingbird, a novel by Harper Lee, explores a number of themes,
including the American justice system during the Great Depression era.
Through the characters' experiences and interactions, Lee highlights the flaws
in the justice system during this time, particularly in the deep segregation and
racism that corrupted it.
The trial of Tom Robinson serves as a powerful example of the injustice and
racial prejudice that permeated the American justice system during the Great
Depression. Despite the weak evidence and faulty testimonies, Tom, a black
man, was unjustly found guilty of the crime of rape. The jury's decision was
influenced by their racial prejudice, opposing Atticus Finch's evidence-backed
plea of innocence. Tom's unfair and unjust conviction demonstrates the
corruption of the Great Depression-era justice system because it was
influenced by racist attitudes rather than legal facts.
Similarly, the character of Bob Ewell further highlights the injustice of the
American justice system during this period. Ewell comfortably identified as a
white man used his privilege to falsely accuse Tom Robinson of rape. Ewell's
false evidence and the way he manipulated the court system shows how
easily the American justice system could be swayed by factors such as class
and race bias.
Moreover, the reactions of the white community in Maycomb, Alabama, after
the trial demonstrates the deeply rooted racism of the time. The white
community neglected the extraordinary progress that Atticus was able to make
during the trial, and instead focused on the black community's reaction to the
jury's verdict. Racism blinded the justice system, preventing it from delivering
justice and safeguarding the interest of the underprivileged.
In conclusion, To Kill a Mockingbird offers commentary on the American
justice system during the Great Depression era. Lee highlights the deep
segregation and cultural biases, witnessed through the story of Tom
Robinson's unjust trial and the biased acts of Bob Ewell. Lee's commentary
serves as a reminder of the importance of unbiased and unbiased legal
systems necessary for justice and equity within the community.
References:
Lee, H. & Wells, R. (2011). To Kill a Mockingbird. Random House.
Zabel, D. (2019). To Kill a Mockingbird: A History of Race and the American Legal System.
Southern Law Journal, 29, 81-99.