The Start of the Maycomb Rape Trial
Maycomb, Alabama- The Tom Robinson trial has just begun and so there is no verdict. For those of you who are just learning about the case: Tom Robinson, a young black man, is accused of rape by Mayella Ewell, a 19 year old girl. The trial began with Judge Taylor's presiding and then Heck Tate,1st officer of the county, began by testifying. He began with saying that on November 21 Bob Ewell, father of victim and 7 others, came to him claiming Mayella had been raped by Mr. Robinson. He continued with saying how him and Mr. Ewell had went to the Ewell household where Miss Ewell was lying on the floor and looked enervated. He asked her who did it and she claimed Mr. Robinson was responsible for her rape and ill state.
Atticus Finch, a well respected lawyer that is representing Tom Robinson, then asked repeatedly if a doctor was called to examine Miss Ewell and in response Mr.
Tom Robinson Band
The old mill in Ewell
ewell west 150Tate said,"Well I can tell you why I didn't. It was necessary, Mr. Finch. She was mighty banged up. Something sho' happened, it was obvious." Mr. Finch then pointed out that from Mr. Tate's testimony Mayella was beaten on the right side of her face which he highly stressed.
Next to the stand was Bob Ewell who answered Mr. Gilmer, social solicitor, questions in a very bold manner and explained that he heard Mayella screaming while he was kindling. He ran to the house and looked through the window to see Mr. Robinson on top of his daughter. Mr. Ewell resumed with saying he couldn't go after Mr. Robinson since he was concerned for his daughter. He said he went after Mr. Tate and brought him to his home. Mr.