* Emphasizing his innocence and vulnerability: Throughout the trial, it's clear that Tom is a kind, gentle man who is being falsely accused. He's physically handicapped, with one arm shorter than the other, which adds to his vulnerability and makes him seem even less capable of the crime.
* Contrasting his character with the Ewells: The Ewells are depicted as lazy, dishonest, and cruel. Their own actions, like Mayella's obvious lies and Bob Ewell's history of violence, highlight Tom's innocence and make the audience root for him.
* Focusing on his plight: The author vividly describes Tom's experience in jail, his fear and despair, and his hope for a fair trial. This emphasizes the injustice he faces and allows readers to connect with his emotional state.
* Highlighting the prejudice he faces: The novel doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of racism in the South. The prejudice against Tom is blatant and pervasive, and the reader sees how this prejudice unfairly stacks the deck against him.
* Through Scout's perspective: Scout, as a child, is innocent and unburdened by prejudice. Her naivety allows her to see Tom's situation clearly and her reactions reflect the reader's own feelings of injustice and sympathy.
* Using vivid imagery and language: Lee uses powerful descriptions to convey Tom's helplessness, his suffering, and the cruelty he faces. These images are particularly effective in provoking emotional responses from readers.
By employing these techniques, Harper Lee creates a compelling portrait of Tom Robinson, a man who is clearly innocent but condemned by prejudice and injustice. This elicits sympathy and outrage in the reader, prompting them to contemplate the consequences of racism and the importance of standing up for what is right.