The racist community of Maycomb perceives Tom Robinson as a violent, dangerous man, who is a threat to society and needs to be locked away. As a black man, Tom is unfairly judged and viewed in a negative light by the prejudiced jury and community. Ironically, Tom Robinson portrays himself as a gentle, compassionate man, who is respectful, honest, and harmless. When Tom takes the witness stand in chapter 19, he acts respectful and responds honestly to each question without anger or disdain. Unlike the Ewells, who are hostile and disrespectful, Tom Robinson's behavior illustrates his kind heart and compassionate nature. When Atticus asks if Tom ever entered Mayella's yard without permission, Tom reveals his polite manners by saying,

"No suh, Mr. Finch, I never did. I wouldn’t do that, suh." (Lee, 195)

During the cross-examination, Tom remains composed as Mr. Gilmer continually disrespects him by referring to him as "boy." Later on, Mr. Gilmer asks Tom why he never accepted any monetary compensation for helping Mayella, and Tom once again reveals his compassionate, benevolent nature by saying,

"I felt right sorry for her, she seemed to try more’n the rest of ‘em—" (Lee, 201)

Despite Tom's generous personality and honesty, the racist audience is upset that he would pity a white woman and immediately views him with more contempt. In Maycomb's prejudiced society, it is ironic that an oppressed black man would pity a white woman. Overall, Tom's conduct on the witness stand is ironic to the prejudiced citizens because he acts polite, respectful, and completely honest during the proceedings.