Harper Lee employs various techniques to portray the mob in a negative and sometimes mocking manner. Initially, the mob is depicted as a single figure in the shadows. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that this portrayal does not accurately represent the truth.
When first introduced, the lynch mob remains anonymous, as their presence is initially depicted through a metaphorical description: “shadows became substances as light revealed solid shapes moving towards the Jail door.” This use of metaphors, such as the mob members being depicted as “shadows [becoming] absences,” creates an atmosphere of tension and instills fear in the reader due to the unknown. Furthermore, not only is the speaker’s voice portrayed as “deep,” but it also possesses a “shadow” of an owner, further enhancing the sense of a menacing and hostile environment. Harper Lee goes beyond mere physical appearances to convey the frightening nature of the mob.
The author also characterizes them by their behavior and other means. For example, she portrays them as “dark smelly bodies” and as having a scent of “stale whisky”. This implies that they not only consume alcoholic beverages, but also do not take much care in maintaining their cleanliness. As a result, a closer examination suggests that they may possess lower intelligence. At the arrival of the angry crowd, Tactics “deliberately folded [his newspaper], dropped it in his lap, and pushed his hat to the back of his head”, indicating his anticipation of the impending lynching mob.
Tactics was not only anticipating the arrival of the group, but also their potential harm towards Tom Robinson. However, he was also concerned about the possible harm they could cause to himself and those around him. Harper Lee demonstrates this through Tactics’ trembling hands, which serve as physical signs of his hidden worry. His caring and protective nature becomes evident when he argues with Gem about leaving, pleading, “Please Gem, take them home.” The fact that Tactics has to persuade a child to leave highlights his desperation to ensure their safety amidst the initial danger posed by the furious ‘mob.’
Even when faced with the threat of the mob, the protagonist remains kind and considerate. The statement “Don’t kick folks” demonstrates his awareness of others even in the face of danger. The innocence of Scout, the protagonist, disperses the mob’s aggression. It appears that the mob, especially Mr. Cunningham, becomes anxious when she initiates a conversation with them. Initially, Mr. Cunningham ignores her, fully aware of the wrongness of his actions. Despite being a generally kind and well-mannered person, Mr. Cunningham’s involvement in the mob is peculiar. Engaging in a dialogue about his child reminds him that he is not a heartless murderer, but rather an ordinary family man who has ended up in the wrong situation. This is further reinforced by his eventual acknowledgement, with a faint nod, after numerous attempts to catch his attention. It signifies that he has been uplifted by the innocence of the young girl and implies that the mob should depart as they do not belong there.
The scene portrays the mob as a mockery, evident from their actions and inaction. Their true nature is revealed upon their arrival and how they address Tactics. Instead of referring to him with the expected respect, they call him “Mr. Finch.” A genuine mob member intent on lynching someone would not bother acknowledging someone with such politeness. This disregard for protocol is further demonstrated when Tactics requests them to keep quiet as Tom is sleeping; they comply, conversing in hushed tones.
Another example to be shown is depicted by their attire – all of them are described as wearing “Overalls and denim shirts buttoned up to the collars,” with some donning “hats pulled firmly down over their ears.” This suggests two things: firstly, they have never engaged in such activities before, as they are wearing work clothes to a lynching, indicating their lack of experience and understanding of the situation. Secondly, it implies that they do not consider themselves a significant threat to anyone.
The second observation is that the individuals have covered their ears with hats, implying a reluctance to be present and embarrassment for their actions. This reinforces the idea that they are not a genuine lynch mob. Moreover, when faced with the innocence of a girl, they feel ashamed. Even Mr. Cunningham appears uneasy when spoken to, highlighting that their intimidating collective presence as shadowy figures with deep voices and burly appearances disguises their true feelings. Yet, Scout unknowingly separates them as distinct individuals, revealing that none of them truly want to participate in the situation and carry a sense of shame for their actions.
