In Harper Lee's seminal novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," Boo Radley and Tom Robinson stand as poignant symbols of innocence and vulnerability, akin to the metaphorical mockingbirds in the narrative. Through their character arcs, Lee crafts a narrative that not only explores the racial tensions and societal injustices prevalent in 1930s Alabama but also delves into the complexities of human nature and empathy. Both Boo Radley and Tom Robinson are victims of prejudice and misunderstanding, embodying the innocence that is ruthlessly destroyed by the harsh realities of the world. Boo Radley, the reclusive neighbor of the Finch family, serves as a central enigma throughout the novel. From the outset, Boo is portrayed as a mysterious and misunderstood figure, shrouded in rumors and urban legends. Despite his reclusive nature, Boo's actions throughout the novel reveal his inherent kindness and innocence. He leaves gifts for the Finch children, mends Jem's pants, and ultimately saves their lives in the novel's climactic showdown with Bob Ewell. Yet, despite his altruism, Boo remains an outcast in the eyes of Maycomb society, feared and ostracized due to his eccentricities and the rumors surrounding his family. …show more content…
Accused of raping Mayella Ewell, a white woman, Tom becomes the target of racial discrimination and injustice. Despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence, including Mayella's conflicting testimonies and Tom's crippled arm which renders the alleged act impossible, Tom is convicted solely on the basis of his race. His trial, presided over by an all-white jury, serves as a stark reminder of the systemic racism prevalent in the Deep South during the Jim Crow