To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee
Contributed by Sharon Fleming
Chapter 23
Summary

Jem, Scout, Dill, and Alexandra are all worried about Atticus after the ordeal with Mr. Ewell, but he reassures them that all is well. They all look forward to Tom Robinson's appeal which Atticus is confident they have a good chance of winning. When Atticus states that he allowed a relative of Walter Cunningham's to serve on the jury, Scout remembers Walter and promises to invite him for lunch again once school reopens. But Alexandra forbids her form playing with Walter because he is ‘trash' and can impart bad habits in her. Scout is upset about what her aunt says about Walter as Jem says that he is starting to understand why Boo prefers to remain indoors.

Analysis

In addition to the threat of Bob Ewell, this chapter also focuses on the discussion between Atticus, Jem, Scout and Alexandra about the details of the trial and how it affected them. Atticus and Jem’s discussion about a possible appeal for Tom shows Jem’s interest in the legal system and how it’s influenced by racism. The fact that Scout joins the conversation shows her increasing interest in issues to do with prejudice even though he doesn’t have the words to explain it. Her thought to invite Walter Cunningham Jr for lunch, a boy she once referred to as ‘just a Cunningham,’ signals how much the events of the summer have influenced her view.

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