16-17 What is revealed that is confusing about Mr. Underwood in chapter 16? How does this relate to one of the themes of the novel? -Bayard Eton

         In chapter 16, while discussing last night's events, Atticus says "You know it's a funny thing about Braxton, he despises Negros, won't have one near him" (Lee, 209). Braxton (Mr. Underwood) doesn't like black people like Tom Robinson, however Underwood defends Tom when the lynch mob is coming after him. Mr. Underwood did not suddenly have a change of heart for colored people, he respects Atticus and the law. He is not like Mr. Cunningham who disobeys the law by what he feels is right, Underwood not only obeys the law but he is also helping Atticus defend it. In this scene Underwood is shown as a kind person.
        From a different prospective, Underwood may have not been protecting Tom Robinson, but he may have just been protecting Atticus. He may not care less what happens to Tom, but he knows that Atticus is valuable to the community and probably to Underwood as well. Even though Atticus was defending someone that Mr. Underwood may not have, Underwood is still a kind enough person to protect Atticus over joining the mob.