What did Miss Maudie mean by Were paying the highest tribute we can pay to a man?

Answer 1

She means the people of Maycomb are paying Atticus through their trust and belief in him and his principles. They are devoted to the "fact" that Atticus is omnipotent of what is right and wrong. Regardless of whether or not he is always right, he is the major lawyer and "righteous", justice-bringer they have. They trust and expect him to bring about righteousness and what is right, rather than what is wrong or biased. All in all, they are paying a fairly hefty price by relying solely on one man's opinions.

Answer 2

Miss Maudie meant that by attending Tom Robinson's death and trial, they were acknowledging and honoring his bravery and strength in facing unjust circumstances with dignity and integrity. She believed that this was the greatest tribute they could offer in recognizing his worth and character despite the tragic outcome.

Answer 3

When Ms. Maudie says, "We're paying the highest tribute we can pay a man," That they believe out of everyone in Maycomb Atticus was the only one who would try his hardest to give Tom Robinson a fair trial. To represent him the way he deserved, with all the rights. That no matter what he is faced with; the town trusts him to do right.

Answer 4

Miss Maudie means that Atticus is one of the few people in Maycomb who might have a chance of convincing the rest of the town of equality between the white and black people.