To Kill a Mockingbird Group

Question:


orangetree
Student
High School - 9th Grade

How does Lee develop Tom Robinson's three-dimensionality and make him a key character? How is Tom Robinson a well-rounded character?

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Posted by orangetree on Friday April 18, 2008 at 12:47 PM and tagged with characters, harper lee, to kill a mockingbird, tom robinson.

Answers:


  1. amy-lepore Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    Tom is the quintessential mocking bird.  He is well-developed because the so much of the story is about him--directly and indirectly.

    We learn about Tom as he speaks, through his actions, by where he lives and how he dresses, and by what others say about him. The scenes in the courtroom are especially helpful in developing his character as we get the story from three different people:  Tom himself, Mr. Ewell, and Mayella Ewell.

    We learn about Tom from many characters in the book.  Calpurnia, Atticus, members of the black church, the Finch's neighbors, and others in the book discuss Tom and his situation.  From all points of view, we come to know Tom as if he were our own neighbor.

    We know his physical description--he is a beautiful man.  He works hard, is kind, has nice teeth and a loving smile.  He helps out the less fortunate than himself and expects no payment for it. 

    The only flaw in Tom's appearance is his disabled left arm due to an accident with farm machinery when he was young.

    There are no flaws in his character.  He was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/mockingbird

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    Posted by amy-lepore on Friday April 18, 2008 at 12:56 PM


  2. ereneclipse Student
    High School - 9th Grade

    Can someone give 3 or 4 quotes about this topic? I just have one day so if you give the quotes, I will be very happy:)

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    Posted by ereneclipse on Friday April 18, 2008 at 1:22 PM