The morning after the conclusion of Tom Robinson's trial, Atticus discovers that his kitchen table is positively groaning under the weight of delicious food. Calpurnia tells him that she found the food on the back porch that morning. It's a "thank you" gift from Maycomb's African American community to Atticus; they're incredibly grateful to him for his stout defense of Tom Robinson.
Atticus showed immense courage in taking on such a hopelessly unwinnable case. In doing so, he earned the respect of not only Tom Robinson's family but also other African Americans in Maycomb. Their appreciation of Atticus's heroic efforts stands in stark contrast to the hostility and indifference of almost all of the white population of the town. Of course, Miss Maudie is an exception here, baking Atticus a large cake. But her kind, considerate gesture lacks the profoundly symbolic value of the gift of food given to Atticus by the African American townsfolk—they have very little, yet give all they can to show their undying gratitude.
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