Why did atticus unbutton his vest and loosen his collar?

Answer 1

I'm not sure if this is THE answer.

But clothes represent the restrictions society puts on people. People dress a certain way based on their station, on the occassion, etc.

So when Atticus loosens his clothing, he is loosening the binds of society and culture on himself.

The reason Atticus loosens his clothes is very simple, the jury is made up of farmers (they probley dont own suits) so to connect with them on a personal level and not seem condisending Atticus loosens and takes off his suit.

Answer 2

he was humbling himself before the jury. he was trying to capture their attention and showing the jury he was equal to them as Tom Robinson should be to everyone else. He also changed his tone of voice. These things were easily noticed by Jem and Scout who know his habits very well. His unbuttoning of his vest symbolizes him shedding the discriminations of Tom Robinson and against blacks but of course no one ever has a change of thought

Answer 3

Atticus was showing that he was an ordinary person just like the members of the jury. By loosening his articles of clothing Atticus was humbling himself before the jury and he was showing that he was equal to these men just as Tom Robinson and the black community should be to Maycomb. This action was easily noticed by Jem and Scout who are aware of Atticus' actions and habits. The unbuttoning of his vest symbolized him shedding the discrimination of Tom Robinson and the African American community.

Answer 4

Atticus unbuttoned his vest and loosened his collar to convey a sense of informality and relaxation, signaling that he was not in his usual professional mode. This action also symbolized a shift in his demeanor and a desire to engage in a more personal and open conversation with his children, Scout and Jem.

Answer 5

To show that he is relaxed, and not worried, even though he know it is the biggest speech of his life.