In chapter 17 of To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout recalls the saying, “it’s never an insult to be called what somebody thinks is a bad name. It just shows you how poor that person is, it doesn’t hurt you.” This old saying resonates with the ongoing trial of Tom Robinson.
This idiom is particularly relevant at this juncture in the story because it reflects the prejudices and social dynamics at play in Maycomb. As the trial unfolds, the townspeople’s bias against Tom, simply based on the color of his skin, shines through the testimonies and accusations. Scout’s reflection on the saying underscores the theme of moral integrity versus societal injustice. While the courtroom is rife with name-calling and derogatory remarks aimed at Tom, it highlights the ignorance and moral poverty of those who perpetrate these views.
Moreover, Scout’s understanding of the saying signifies her growing awareness of the complex moral landscape in which they live. It suggests that strength lies in one’s character and how one responds to prejudice, rather than in the hateful words that may be thrust upon them. This realization becomes particularly poignant as the trial represents not just a fight for Tom’s innocence, but a broader commentary on human dignity and empathy.