How does Harper Lee develop and use contrast in characterization and voice in the trial scene of To Kill a Mockingbird?

By the use of the various witnesses who give testimony at
the trial, and from the narrative of Scout and the opinions expressed by others--such as
Jem, Dill and Dolphus Raymond--Harper Lee manages to express a wide range of emotions
during the trial of Tom Robinson. Scout's narrative ranges from matter-of-fact
commentary to moments of self-discovery, particularly when she recognizes that the
crippled Robinson could not have committed the crime of which he is accused; and the
realization that the jurors, who refuse to look Tom in the face, have decided on a
guilty verdict.

Lee takes the reader on a roller coaster
ride of emotions. The trial starts innocently enough with the factual testimony of
Sheriff Heck Tate. It explodes when Bob Ewell takes the stand, bringing the courtroom
into chaos when he accuses Tom of "ruttin' on my Mayella." Mayella's appearance brings
an even greater emotional escalation, completing her testimony by cursing Atticus and
storming from the witness stand. Tom Robinson's turn on the stand evokes pity, but when
the prosecutor disrespectfully taunts Tom, it sends Dill crying from the courtroom.
During the needed lull, Dill and Scout enjoy a few humorous moments with the mysterious
Dolphus Raymond, who reminds them that there will always be white people to make life
"hell" for the black man.

The trial ends with Atticus'
pleading voice of reason, asking the jurors to disregard Tom's skin color and
to

"In the
name of God, do your duty... In the name of God, believe
him."

The author extends the
trial somewhat, giving the reader time for reflection during the surprising hours that
it takes the jury to make its decision. As Atticus had earlier predicted, and as Scout
sees from the absent eyes of the jurors, Tom is found guilty--a surprise to Jem, but
probably not to many others, including most readers.