Literature for Scholars
Chapter 15 Analysis
At this point in the novel, Tom Robinson's court date is approaching and Atticus is facing trouble from others in the town who object to him representing Robinson, particularly due to the man's skin color. As you read this chapter, think about the decisions Atticus makes and reflect on the challenges facing him, Robinson, and the town.
After reading Chapter 15, analyze the chapter closely by considering the following questions. Write at least two sentences in response to the questions.
1. Based on the details of the passage, how would you describe the setting of the courthouse and the downtown area of Maycomb? What details give you the specific impression of this setting?
2. Choose a word that you think best describes the tone of the passage. Explain why you chose that word.
3. What does the narrator mean when she says, “The fake peace that prevailed on Sundays was made more irritating by Aunt Alexandra’s presence” (pg. 124)? What does this phrase say about the family? What does it say about Aunt Alexandra?
4. What is an important theme of this particular passage? How do you know? Use the text to justify your responses.
5. Based on the passage, what can you tell about Jem?
6. Why does Mr. Cunningham ultimately tell his group to “clear out” at the end of the chapter (pg. 130)? What does Scout do to encourage them to leave?
7. How does Atticus feel about defending Tom Robinson? How can you tell?
8. Write a summary (at least a paragraph) that captures the main points of the story. Make sure it reflects the action in the text.
9. What does this passage reflect about the 1930’s? What details support your conclusions?
10. Make some predictions about what might happen next in the story, specifically with Atticus and the Tom Robinson case.
1. Based on the details of the passage, how would you describe the setting of the courthouse and the downtown area of Maycomb? What details give you the specific impression of this setting?
2. Choose a word that you think best describes the tone of the passage. Explain why you chose that word.
3. What does the narrator mean when she says, “The fake peace that prevailed on Sundays was made more irritating by Aunt Alexandra’s presence” (pg. 124)? What does this phrase say about the family? What does it say about Aunt Alexandra?
4. What is an important theme of this particular passage? How do you know? Use the text to justify your responses.
5. Based on the passage, what can you tell about Jem?
6. Why does Mr. Cunningham ultimately tell his group to “clear out” at the end of the chapter (pg. 130)? What does Scout do to encourage them to leave?
7. How does Atticus feel about defending Tom Robinson? How can you tell?
8. Write a summary (at least a paragraph) that captures the main points of the story. Make sure it reflects the action in the text.
9. What does this passage reflect about the 1930’s? What details support your conclusions?
10. Make some predictions about what might happen next in the story, specifically with Atticus and the Tom Robinson case.
