Question

2. Did Tom have a fair trial? Rank

in order of culpability
(blameworthiness or
responsibility)
for the death of
Tom Robinson the following
characters: Bob Ewell, Mr. Gilman
(prosecuting attorney), Mayella
Ewell, individuals on the jury, and
Tom Robinson.

Answer 1

Tom Robinson's trial in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' was not fair due to racial discrimination, and ranking the characters in order of culpability places Bob Ewell at the highest, as his actions directly led to Tom's wrongful death, with Tom himself being the least culpable as the wronged party.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the trial of Tom Robinson in the novel ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee, which is essentially a critique of the fairness of the American legal system in the context of racial discrimination. Unfortunately, Tom did not have a fair trial, which is indicative of the systemic issues prevalent in the American South during the time period depicted in the novel.

Ranking the characters in order of culpability for the death of Tom Robinson would look something like this:

1. Bob Ewell - As the primary antagonist and accuser, his false testimony directly leads to Tom's conviction.
2. Mayella Ewell - Although a victim in her own right, she plays a role in accusing Tom Robinson, albeit under duress.
3. Individuals on the jury - They exercise their power unjustly by ignoring evidence due to racial bias.
4. Mr. Gilmer (prosecuting attorney) - Contributes to the unfair trial by performing his duty within a prejudiced system.
5. Tom Robinson - Although innocent, is least culpable, as he is the victim of the system's failure to deliver justice.

Throughout history, cases such as the Scottsboro Boys and the murder of Emmett Till, as well as the Supreme Court's decisions on the rights to an impartial jury and legal representation, highlight the struggles and evolution of the justice system when it comes to fairness and racial equality.