Final answer:
Atticus Finch removes his coat, watch, and unbuttons his vest before addressing the jury to present himself as an everyman, aiming to connect personally with the jurors and focus on the case's merits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks why Atticus Finch, a character in Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird, removes his coat and watch, and unbuttons his vest before addressing the jury. This action is symbolic and demonstrates Atticus's approach to the trial. By removing these items, Atticus is setting aside formalities and pretenses, presenting himself as an everyman who is speaking plainly and sincerely to the jurors.
He wants to connect with them on a personal level, removing any barriers that might exist due to his status as a lawyer. This method aims to garner the respect and attention of the jury and convey the importance of the case based on its merits rather than his authority as a legal professional.