Student Question
What does "domes of silence muting the court" mean in "The Case for the Defence"?
Quick answer:
The phrase "domes of silence muting the court" metaphorically suggests the loss of influence and trust in the court system when mistakes occur. It implies that errors silence the court's authority and its reassuring message of delivering justice, thereby diminishing its prestige and honor. The court's ability to communicate effectively with the public is muted, undermining its role as a reliable arbiter of justice.
I think that what Greene is referring to here is the impact that mistakes would have on the prestige and honor of the court system.
The phrase that you mention is given right at the start of the story. We are told that the jury is afraid of making mistakes because mistakes are like "domes of silence muting the court." Clearly, this is said metaphorically.
I think what this means is that the court loses its influence or trust with the people when it makes mistakes. If this happens, it is like the court is being silenced. It is no longer telling the people "don't worry, we are here to do justice." That message is muted when a mistake is made.
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