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Who is affected by Atticus' decision to defend Tom Robinson?

Atticus' decision to defend Tom Robinson affects his family, friends, and community. Scout and Jem are ridiculed for their father's decision to defend an African American and are continually made fun of by their community members throughout the novel. Mrs. Dubose, Cecil Jacobs, and Francis Hancock all make derogatory remarks to Scout about her father defending Tom. Scout and Jem have to learn to maintain their composure and exercise tolerance towards their ignorant community members. Aunt Alexandra comments to her grandson that Atticus is ruining the family and is even subjected to criticism on Atticus' behalf during her missionary circle. Calpurnia is also affected by Atticus' decision to defend Tom and becomes directly involved with the case because she is part of the African American community. She acts as the intermediary between the black and white communities throughout the novel. Miss Maudie is forced to keep her opinions to herself and silently supports Atticus in his defense of Tom Robinson.


Most notably, the entire town is affected by Atticus' decision to defend Tom Robinson. A prestigious, and respected white man like Atticus challenging Maycomb's prejudice forces the community to confront their hypocritical, discriminatory nature. His decision upsets various sects throughout the community such as the Old Sarum bunch and raises racial tensions throughout the small town of Maycomb.

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