In Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, the character Tom Robinson's statement during Mr. Gilmer's cross-examination, "I felt right sorry for her," becomes a pivotal moment in the trial. This statement reflects Tom’s compassion toward Mayella Ewell, the white woman who accused him of raping her.
In thecontext of the racially charged environment of the story's setting—1920s Alabama—Tom’s expression of sympathy for a white woman, especially one from a lower socioeconomic background, is perceived as transgressive. It implies that he, a Black man, feels pity for a white woman, which violates the Jim Crow-era social norms that dictated a strict hierarchy based on race.
This moment underscores the theme of racial inequality and societal prejudice. Mr. Gilmer, the prosecutor, attempts to use this statement against Tom, framing it as inappropriate and offensive. However, it ultimately highlights Tom’s humanity and character. Rather than portraying Tom as a criminal, his words reveal his kindness and empathy, contrasting with the cruelty and injustice of the world around him.
While Tom's statement did not save him from conviction due to the deeply ingrained racism of the jury and society, it is a critical moment in the narrative that demonstrates the tragic consequences of prejudice and the flawed nature of the justice system. The trial and Tom's wrongful conviction serve as a commentary on the broader issues of inequality and moral responsibility within the community.