Journal+TKAM

The trial of Tom Robinson has created a storm of opinions throughout Maycomb. Everyone has shown up to watch the proceedings and the debate over a mans life. The state is represented by Mr. Gilmer and Tom Robinson is being defended by none other than Atticus Finch. Presiding over the case is Judge Taylor, who is known for his interesting habits and fair rulings. The case for Tom Robinson's life is a case of rape in which Mayella Ewell is the victim in question. The town of Maycomb has never had trial like this and the verdict while resonate with all of Maycomb for generations.

The trial began with the testimony of Sheriff Tate who was the first to respond on the scene of the crime. The sheriff put the picture of the scene of the crime in the juries heads. Then came the testimony of Bob Ewell, Mayella's father. Throughout his testimony he erratically spoke of what he saw and in some blunt instances spoke how he felt. His speech clearly infuriated Judge Taylor as he asked him to, "...keep your testimony within the confines of Christian English usage." The next state witness was the alleged victim herself, miss Mayella Ewell. The questioning the Mr. Gilmer gave was something to be expected but the truly precarious questioning was when it was time for Atticus to cross examine the witness. His questioning was precise and thought out. He gingerly alluded around his point until all the pieces came together. Atticus rose the point that perhaps it was not Tom who had raped her if she had been raped at all. Atticus made the point clear to the jury that Tom Robinson was innocent and that her bruises and beating was from her own father Mr. Bob Ewell. This point at first inconspicuous to everyone in the courtroom became clear and a