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How Is Mayella Ewell A Sympathetic Character

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In the classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Tom Robinson, a sympathetic, considerate African American field worker, is accused of the rape of an abused 19 year old white girl, Mayella Ewell. As the consequent trial unfolds, the reader glimpses Tom’s understanding personality despite the harsh 1930s stereotypes that cloud the trial. First, early into his testimony, Tom reveals that Mayella regularly invited him into the Ewell yard to do a few minor chores, which was usually chopping wood or toting water. Then, when Atticus, his defense attorney, asks if Tom was paid for his services, Tom replies, “No suh, not after she offered me a nickel the first time. I was glad to do it, Mr. Ewell didn't seem to help ner none, and neither did the chillun, and I knowed she didn't have no nickels to spare" (Lee 218). Containing four detailed reasons which all justify his favors, his response displays his thoughtful nature because provide a genuine explanation of his actions. If he had been counterfeiting these reasons, they would not have been nearly as numerous or detailed. …show more content…

At the time, Mr. Ewell saw this from a window and ran around to the front door. As a result, Atticus wants to know what Mr. Ewell yelled during his sprint to the front of the house. At first, Tom Robinson resists quoting him due to the profanity Mr. Ewell used. He claims that it’s “not fittin‘ for these folks’n chillun to hear” (Lee 221). Here, he is displaying consideration for the adults with small children in the courtroom by avoiding the curses, fearing they may adopt the unhealthy vocabulary. Furthermore, Tom is showing regard for Judge Taylor’s preferences. Specifically, he prefers witnesses to keep their accounts “within the confines of Christian English” (Lee 198), which discludes

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