Write a paragraph of at least seven sentences about one of the following themes. What has Harper Lee shown the reader so far about the theme? Use specific evidence from the novel.

the outcast

appearance vs. reality

education

n Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, the theme of appearance vs. reality is a prevalent one, and Boo is a perfect example of this theme-as is Tom Robinson, at least as far as the townspeople are concerned.

When Atticus decides to defend Tom Robinson for allegedly raping Mayella Ewell, the townspeople are angry. They anticipated that Tom would have a lawyer, but not one that would defend a man that most of them believe raped a white woman. Because Tom is black, he is guilty before he steps into the courtroom-as seen by the lynch mob that shows up at the jail while Atticus sits outside with a light, chair and newspaper. The mob has made up its mind that Tom is guilty, and they do not need a court trial to carry out the sentence they believe he should serve: to be hanged until dead.

"He in there, Mr. Finch?" a man said.

"He is," we heard Atticus answer, "and he's asleep. Don't wake him up." ...

"You know what we want," another man said. "Get aside from the door, Mr. Finch."