Question

Atticus tells the jury that "a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury. A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up." He ends with, "In the name of God, do your duty." What is Atticus suggesting?

Answer 1

Atticus Finch is underscoring the crucial role of jurors in determining the outcome of a trial, imploring them to act with integrity and without bias to ensure a just verdict, reflecting their serious responsibility in upholding the justice system.

Step-by-step explanation:

Atticus Finch's statement to the jury in To Kill a Mockingbird emphasizes the responsibility and integrity of each juror in delivering justice. Atticus suggests that the efficacy and righteousness of a court's judgement are directly dependent on the honesty, fairness, and conscientious execution of duty by the jury members. He implores the jurors to recognize their role in upholding the justice system and to perform their duty without bias or prejudice. The idea is to resist yielding to societal pressures or personal prejudices, and instead, act in accordance with one's true perception of justice, which is crucial to the fairness and soundness of a trial. Atticus' appeal is for the jurors to take their duty seriously and deliver a verdict based on the evidence presented, ensuring a just outcome in the spirit of the legal system.