To Kill a Mocking Bird

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is an inspiring and thought-provoking novel, written to challenge the human mind. Racial prejudice, conflict and the Maycomb locals’ personal beliefs are major themes that are seen throughout the novel and are the topics that will be discussed throughout this essay. As local lawyer Atticus Finch takes on the case of accused rapist Tom Robinson, conflict arises, as the Maycomb locals show how they really feel. This novel should inspire people to not judge a book by its cover and embrace the process of change with your society. Being called a disgrace to the world, how would you feel?  
Racial prejudice is one of the major themes woven throughout the novel. Racial prejudice becomes a major issue throughout Maycomb as soon as local lawyer, Atticus Finch, takes on the case of Tom Robinson. Prejudice is said to be ‘Maycombs usual disease’. A situation that racial prejudice is most present is the trail of Tom Robinson. In his trial, Tom Robinson is misjudged and mistreated because of the colour of his skin. An example of this is when Tom’s prosecutor, Mr Gilmer, refers to Tom as ‘boy’. He uses a tone of voice, which would be used if he was talking to the lowest form of creature. This makes Tom look foolish and is a way of discriminating him because he is black and lower class.
At Robinson’s trial verdict, all the evidence that Atticus had produced clearly shows that Tom is innocent. This was not the case as the evidence did not help and Tom was found guilty. In my opinion, the verdict was solely based on the colour of his skin and he should have been given a fair trial. Not only was it based on his skin colour, as a black man, he was not allowed to feel sorry for a white women. As stated by Tom, ‘I felt sorry for her', referring to Mayella Ewell. According to the white community, Negros weren’t allowed to have pity for any member of the white community.
Another example of discrimination is when Jem talks about a ‘mixed child’. Jem...