Chapters 16+17 TKAM

In chapters 16 and 17 of “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, we are introduced to the case that Atticus is trying to prove; which is that Tom Robinson did not rape Mayella Ewell.  There are a few confusing things that happen in these chapters. Why did Atticus question every witness about where and what kind of injuries Mayella suffered? Why didn’t they call a doctor? Will this help further prove his side of the case? Will he win?

Chapter 17 was the commencement of the trial with the introduction of Mr. Tate and Mr. Ewell who were both witnesses to the rape of Mayella Ewell. For example when Mr. Tate was being questioned, one of the questions Atticus asked was “Did you call a doctor, Sheriff? Did anybody call a doctor?” (Lee 167). This is the first witness Atticus posed this question to, but not the last. The next witness, after Mr. Tate, was Mr. Ewell who was interrogated in the same vien. For example when Mr. Ewell’s examination was coming to a close Atticus stepped in and asked Mr. Ewell, “Did you not think the nature of her injuries warranted immediate medical attention?” (Lee 175). Having the same question for both witnesses implies that this will be a reoccurring issue in the trial and that it will indeed help further prove Atticus’s point in the case.  Overall I believe having Atticus defend Tom Robinson in this case reveals that he will be a peacemaker. His authoritative stature in the town demands respect and his empathy for Tom Robinson will show the community what is right and just.