Critical Race Theory In To Kill A Mockingbird

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Currently in the twentieth century, many states view equality as a fundamental important principle. It has been seen as so important to such an extent that some countries have enshrined it their constitutions. However, for many years, across the globe, people of color were not judged by merit but by the color of their skin. This essay aims to the answer the question whether there was any possibility for Tom Robison to receive a fair trial. I assert that it was impossible for Tom to receive a fair trial due to the prejudice in Maycomb. In this essay I will elaborate on this assertion. In so doing, I will first start discussing the contribution Critical Legal Studies (CLS) has made relating to the issue of prejudice .Secondly I will turn to discuss Critical Race theory as a supplement to CLS and its application in the novel. Critical Legal Studies: An initial address to …show more content…

In this section I will however only address the centrality of racism and white supremacy as theme of CRT in the context of the book. Racism Charles Lawrence asserts that American racism is prevalent and is unconscious .After Mr Radley fired his gun, the neighbors assumed that “Mr Radley shot a Negro in his collard patch.” They made this conclusion without solid proof that it was indeed a black man. Racial prejudice runs so deep that even the children have come accustomed to it. Scout was teased by her classmate and cousin Francis because Atticus was defending a black man. Although Calpurnia has been useful to the Finch family, Aunt Alexandra refuses Scout to visit Calpurnia and incites Atticus to fire her because she is black. During trial, When Sherriff Tate testified, he was asked why a doctor was not called to confirm Maylla’s injuries, Sherriff Tate responded by saying that “…it wasn’t necessary, Mr Finch. She was mighty banged up. Something sho’ happened, it was obvious