<em>To Kill a Mockingbird</em> is a novel published by Harper Lee in 1960. It tells a story about a black man being wrongly accused of raping a troubled young woman, Mayella Ewell.
What does Atticus do that makes Mayella Ewell think that he’s making fun of her?
Answer: Atticus calls her<em> ''ma'am'' </em>and <em>''miss Mayella''</em>, which she interprets as an act of disrespect.
Explanation:
When Mayella takes the witness stand, she expresses hostility. Atticus kindly calls her <em>''ma'am'</em>, which makes her think that he is making fun of her. She hopelessly threatens that she would not answer further questions if Atticus does that again. Although Atticus is just being polite, which is confirmed by Judge Taylor, Mayella continues with her complaints. When Atticus asks Mayella about her friends, her reaction remains the same.
What does this show us about Mayella’s life?
Answer: It shows us that Mayella is insecure due to her father's violent treatment of her. It also tells us that she is not used to any act of kindness.
Explanation:
Mayella Ewell is certainly a troubled young woman. She is afraid of her alcoholic father and, logically, unwilling to tell the truth when she takes the witness stand. As it later turns out, Mayella is physically abused (and possibly even raped) by Mr. Ewell. She does not live in a healthy environment and is probably in constant fear, which makes her anxious and confused when Atticus cross-examines her. This explains why she interprets his attempt to be polite as making fun of her. She is also embarrassed because she tried to kiss Tom and he refused, which makes her feel even more rejected.
