Later in the book, Atticus says he has “pity in my heart” for Mayella. Why?

Mayella is a victim. Atticus knows this. He knows she is abused by her father physically, emotionally and sexually. If you read between the lines it is evident that the children running around the Ewell land belong to Mayella and her father. I know, yuck. Atticus knows Mayella is controlled by her father and leads a most pathetic existence.

Mayella is a victim. Atticus knows this. He knows she is abused by her father physically, emotionally and sexually. If you read between the lines it is evident that the children running around the Ewell land belong to Mayella and her father. I know, gross. (and I think somebody has a crush?) Atticus knows Mayella is controlled by her father and leads a most pathetic existence.