Final Answer:
Atticus suggests that Mayella Ewell lied about Tom Robinson because she felt trapped in an abusive situation and feared the repercussions of admitting her attraction to a Black man in a racially charged society.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the narrative of Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," Atticus Finch, a principled lawyer, presents the idea that Mayella Ewell's false accusation against Tom Robinson stems from her predicament.
Mayella, living in a racially prejudiced Southern society, is caught in an abusive household, where her father, Bob Ewell, is responsible for both physical and emotional mistreatment. Atticus posits that Mayella, rather than acknowledging her troubled home life or admitting her attraction to Tom Robinson, fabricates a story to avoid facing the consequences of breaking societal norms.
Atticus's insight reflects the pervasive racism and societal expectations prevalent in Maycomb, the fictional town in the novel. The deeply ingrained racial prejudices of the time make it inconceivable for Mayella to openly admit any relationship with a Black man, let alone one perceived as a threat to the existing power structure.
Atticus's perspective serves to shed light on the complexities of the characters' motivations and the broader societal issues at play, emphasizing the harsh consequences faced by those who defy societal norms.
The exploration of Mayella's motivations adds layers to the novel's exploration of justice, morality, and the impact of racial prejudice on individual lives. Atticus's understanding of Mayella's predicament underscores the tragedy of her situation, highlighting the destructive consequences of systemic racism and societal expectations.