Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Upon cross-examining Mr. Heck Tate, what question does Atticus ask of Mr. Tate repeatedly?

In chapter 17 Atticus asks Heck Tate if a doctor was ever called.  The reason he repeats this question is to make it obvious to the jury (and judge) that no doctor was ever called.  Because there was no doctor involved, there is no evidence that proves that she was beaten and raped.  With no evidence, there is no case against Tom.  The judge breaks into the examination and said,


"He's answered the question three times, Atticus.  He didn't call a doctor."


Atticus replies to that,


"I just wanted to make sure, Judge."  At that comment, the judge smiled at Atticus.  He knew what Atticus was implying.  He was even helping to point it out by interrupting.

No comments:

Post a Comment

What is the main function of the fool in "King Lear"? What is the secondly function?

The fool as a character is confusing, but part of this is the difference between the 1600s and today, as well as the difference in place. If...