Final answer:
The story of Marsha Colbey in 'Just Mercy' would likely differ substantially if she were wealthy, as wealth can provide more resources, better legal representation, and influence public perception, ultimately altering the legal and social struggles one faces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story of Marsha Colbey in 'Just Mercy' would likely be very different if she were wealthy. Wealth often brings with it access to better legal representation, a wider network of supportive resources, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system more effectively. Wealth can also influence public perception and provides a cushion against the immediate hardships of legal struggles. In the excerpts provided, characters like Sherrena Tarver, despite facing her own financial pressures, make tough decisions indicating the influence of economic status in matters of compassion and assistance. It's clear that wealth can afford individuals a level of agency and protection that is often unavailable to the impoverished, which can dramatically alter the outcomes of their stories.
Examples from the texts also illustrate the stark differences in social experiences based on economic status. Bernice struggles to understand why she lacks attention away from home, failing to see her family's wealth as a significant factor in her social success. Conversely, Dorothy recognizes the gulf between social strata when she encounters those less fortunate, feeling a moral obligation to offer help despite her own fears of destitution. Lastly, the notion that a 'lack of moral judgment on the poor' often exists among those with the means to give, further exemplifies how economic status can shape social narratives and personal experiences.