When Tom Robinson, an African-American man, is accused of raping Mayella Ewell, Atticus is appointed as the defense attorney. ... The children view their father as frustratingly staid and bookish, until he is asked by the sheriff to shoot a rabid dog that is roaming the street. ... Atticus further suggests that it was Bob, Mayella's father, who beat her, and that, in fact, no rape occurred. ... However, after two hours, the jury returns with a guilty verdict, sentencing Tom to be executed for rape. ... The rabid dog that threatens the town has been interpreted as symbolizing the menace ...

• Word Count: 2287
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: Undergraduate