Twelve Angry Men

In this discussion prompt, students will adopt the role of a juror and address a series of philosophical statements as that character.

Throughout the novel, each juror makes clear their perspective about the role of justice in society. After getting into groups of three or four, each participant will choose the role of one of the jurors and discuss the following philosophical questions as that juror. Refer to the events in the play to guide your thinking. (Be sure to be more polite than the jurors are!)  

Philosophical statements:

• Strict enforcement of the law is the only way to protect a just society.
• People who are quick to punish others should not be trusted.   
• Criminals must be held accountable for their crimes. 
• The idea that crime is caused by poverty is slander against the poor. 
• Incarceration should be for rehabilitation as much as punishment.

Teaching Suggestion: Students should be able to generate a rich discussion, especially if they steer toward the 3rd, 5th, 7th, 8th, or 11th Juror, among others. If they need help getting started, you might assist them by providing sample answers from the point of view of the 5th Juror. You could also use a “I Do, We Do, You Do” technique.