Mayella is a lonely young woman trapped in a home with an
abusive father and many difficult responsibilities. The family's poverty ranks them
just one step up on the social ladder above blacks, a social position quite low. In
writing through her voice, you will need to keep in mind that her poverty and social
standing (in addition to her father's influence) leads her to hate blacks. However, her
loneliness leads to to attempt to get any attention whatsoever from whoever will show it
to her.
In considering Mayella's perspective who will want
to decide on one of two directions: remorseful Mayella or relieved
Mayella.
Remorseful Mayella would be quite sorry that she
had lied in court. She would feel like Tom Robinson's death was her fault and would
perhaps become a less racist and more honest person in the future. She might even admit
her lies in order to clear Tom's name.
Relieved Mayella
would be happy to have gotten away with her lies. She has avoided the social stigma of
making advances toward a black man and certainly avoided the wrath of her abusive
father. She might feel as if she has escaped justice this time and might be more likely
to test it in the future. She would be aware that she can say anything she wants about
a black person and, because she is white, be believed.
When
writing your reflection, be sure to use the first person point of view as if YOU are
Mayella.
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