Overview
Chapter 15 of To Kill a Mockingbird marks a turning point as the trial approaches, focusing on the threat to Tom Robinson and highlighting themes of racism, courage, and mob mentality.
Events Leading Up to the Jail Incident
- Dill is allowed to stay with Scout and Jem after some discussion.
- The Finch family experiences a peaceful week before tension rises.
- Sheriff Tate and other men visit Atticus, discussing moving Tom Robinson to the county jail.
- Concerns arise about a potential mob from Old Sarum and possible violence.
- Link Deas questions Atticus’s decision to defend Tom, fearing for his safety and reputation.
The Night at the Jail
- Atticus leaves the house with an extension cord and lightbulb, signaling he expects trouble.
- Jem, Scout, and Dill secretly follow Atticus to town and find him outside the jail.
- Four cars of men arrive, intending harm to Tom Robinson.
- Atticus tries to protect Tom and remain calm despite the threat.
- Jem refuses to leave when ordered, showing growing maturity and concern for Atticus.
- Scout diffuses the tension by recognizing and speaking to Mr. Cunningham about personal matters.
- Mr. Cunningham relents and tells the mob to go home, averting violence.
Aftermath and Themes
- Atticus reassures his children and thanks them for their presence.
- Mr. Underwood, armed and watching from the newspaper office, was ready to intervene.
- Scout is still confused about the seriousness of the danger; Jem understands more.
- The chapter exposes the depth of institutional racism and the threat of vigilante justice.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mob Mentality — when individuals in a group lose their sense of individuality and act differently, often more dangerously, than they would alone.
- Lynch Mob — a group of people intent on violence, often to execute someone without legal trial, especially in racially charged contexts.
- Change of Venue — moving a trial to a different location to ensure fairness or safety.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review themes of racism, justice, and courage as seen in the chapter.
- Reflect on character development, especially Jem’s increasing maturity.
- Prepare for the events of the trial and their significance in the story.