Hidden Power Some of the most influential literature written in the history of mankind often addresses controversial issues with powerful themes. These books often change the perspectives of society by revealing the darkness under the facade of complacency. Timeless themes often connect with people on the deepest of human levels due to their relatability. Truly great literature can capture and control these emotions through the use of themes that will never disappear. In Harper Lee’s, To Kill A Mockingbird, she uses the themes of courage, justice, and perspective to compel the audience to dig deeper into the novel and themselves. For instance, Harper Lee uses the characters of Atticus, Boo, Mrs. Dubose, and Mr. Raymond to portray the human
…show more content…
Link Deas. The overall result of Tom’s trial strikes a chord in the audience’s heart by illustrating the terrible injustice of southern prejudice. Despite the impressive evidence proving the innocence of Tom Robinson, the prejudice of southern courts prevailed. Towards the end of the trial, Atticus begs the court to set racism aside, “I’m no idealist to believe firmly in the integrity of our courts and in the jury system...Gentlemen, a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury. A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty” (Lee 275). Despite his pleas, the court rules Tom guilty, resulting in his suicide. A small humorous example of justice that brings pleasure to the reader is shown when Scout gives her cousin Francis a nice punch to the face when he calls Atticus a, “Nigger Lover”. A very big example of injustice that is described as occurring before the story begins lies in the tale of Boo Radley. After the incident with his scissors, Boo was immediately locked under the courthouse, in the damp basement for a few months. This treatment resulted in concern for his health; however, the alternative and permanent prison of his house was not much better. Being trapped inside a cold and nearly dead home for years is no way to live, and Boo Radley had to suffer that. Another two examples of justice can be found when Heck Tate protects Boo, and when Mr. Link Deas protects Helen Robinson from Bob Ewell. On the night of the play, Boo saves the lives of Scout and Jem by killing Bob Ewell before he can stab
Link Deas. The overall result of Tom’s trial strikes a chord in the audience’s heart by illustrating the terrible injustice of southern prejudice. Despite the impressive evidence proving the innocence of Tom Robinson, the prejudice of southern courts prevailed. Towards the end of the trial, Atticus begs the court to set racism aside, “I’m no idealist to believe firmly in the integrity of our courts and in the jury system...Gentlemen, a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury. A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty” (Lee 275). Despite his pleas, the court rules Tom guilty, resulting in his suicide. A small humorous example of justice that brings pleasure to the reader is shown when Scout gives her cousin Francis a nice punch to the face when he calls Atticus a, “Nigger Lover”. A very big example of injustice that is described as occurring before the story begins lies in the tale of Boo Radley. After the incident with his scissors, Boo was immediately locked under the courthouse, in the damp basement for a few months. This treatment resulted in concern for his health; however, the alternative and permanent prison of his house was not much better. Being trapped inside a cold and nearly dead home for years is no way to live, and Boo Radley had to suffer that. Another two examples of justice can be found when Heck Tate protects Boo, and when Mr. Link Deas protects Helen Robinson from Bob Ewell. On the night of the play, Boo saves the lives of Scout and Jem by killing Bob Ewell before he can stab