Figurative Language In To Kill A Mockingbird

In his closing statement, Atticus effectively uses his word choice and references to society to convince the jury that Tom Robinson is innocent. Throughout the speech, Atticus is respectful to his audience. He uses words like “gentlemen” to address the jury, which helps his point seem stronger because he is so courteous. Additionally, Mr. Finch uses strong language to get his ideas out. The words he uses are purposeful, but easy enough that an uneducated person could still follow along with his argument. Atticus uses parallel structure on page 204 to create the idea that black men are no worse than white men: “all men are created equal” (205). There is also a lot of imagery and other figurative language that brings his argument to life, and gives him more credibility. Another useful strategy Atticus uses is his reference to significant figures. He quotes Thomas Jefferson’s speech on equality, to restate that Tom Robinson’s race shouldn’t affect the court case. These mentions appeal to the Jury’s sense of patriotism which helps them to better understand and agree with Atticus’s point. He also discusses how everyone is equal in a court, saying “there is one human institution that makes a pauper equal of a Rockefeller, the stupid man equal of an Einstein,” (205). This is a way for him to tell the jury to put their bias
Most of the evidence heard from Mayella, Tom, and the others interviewed is circumstantial and cannot be proven as true. However, given his situation, Atticus uses what pure proof he has for his case to make a convincing closing argument to the Jury. Even though he has little to back himself up, he uses strong emotions to prove himself. He ends his argument saying, “In the name of God, believe him” (206). This final dialogue shows us how passionate Atticus is about his case. Win or lose, Atticus knows he is fighting for what is right, and that’s all that matters to