Hi again, I have another question for the novel 'in the heat of the night' for chapter three.

Here it is ,
Give the significance of the following,
'That's what he's got a shirttail for.'
'Like I said, Virgil, we know our business down here. Go home.'

if you know the answer to this question or can support me in anyway please answer it ! Thanks

In chapter three of the novel 'In the Heat of the Night,' there are two significant lines that you mentioned:

1. "That's what he's got a shirttail for."
2. "Like I said, Virgil, we know our business down here. Go home."

Let's analyze the significance of each line:

1. "That's what he's got a shirttail for":
This line is spoken by Chief Gillespie when he encounters Virgil Tibbs, the African-American detective from Pasadena. The significance of this line lies in its racial undertones. The phrase "shirttail" is often used colloquially to refer to someone who lacks authority or is inferior. By saying "That's what he's got a shirttail for," Gillespie is implying that Tibbs is inferior or doesn't belong in their jurisdiction because he is black. It highlights the racial prejudice and discrimination prevalent in the town.

2. "Like I said, Virgil, we know our business down here. Go home":
This line is Chief Gillespie's response to Tibbs, who offers his assistance in the murder investigation. The significance of this line also revolves around racial prejudice. Gillespie dismisses Tibbs' offer and tries to assert his authority by reminding him that they are capable of handling the case on their own. By telling Tibbs to go home, Gillespie reinforces the notion that a black man should not interfere in their predominantly white community. It highlights the systemic racism and the challenges faced by Tibbs as he navigates a racially divided society.

These lines demonstrate the racial tension and discrimination that Tibbs faces as he tries to assert his expertise and assist in solving the murder case. They also set the stage for the development of Tibbs' character and the exploration of racial themes throughout the novel.

Certainly! I'd be happy to help you with the significance of the phrases in Chapter 3 of the novel "In the Heat of the Night".

1. "That's what he's got a shirttail for."
- This phrase is significant because it reveals a cultural difference between the characters. In the context of the story, Sheriff Gillespie uses this phrase when talking about his deputy, Virgil Tibbs. The phrase "shirttail" refers to the end or lower part of a shirt that hangs below the waistline. In this case, Sheriff Gillespie is implying that it is Virgil's duty to handle certain tasks or issues. The significance lies in the fact that this phrase implies a sense of responsibility and duty that Sheriff Gillespie expects from Virgil, emphasizing their different perspectives and experiences of law enforcement.

2. "Like I said, Virgil, we know our business down here. Go home."
- This statement by Sheriff Gillespie highlights the racial tension and prejudice present in the story. Sheriff Gillespie is essentially telling Virgil Tibbs, who is an African American detective from the North temporarily assisting with a murder investigation in a small Southern town, that they don't need his help. The significance of this phrase is that it reveals the racial bias that Virgil faces and foreshadows the challenges he will encounter as he tries to work with the local police force. It highlights the overarching theme of racial inequality and the struggle for justice.

In summary, both phrases in Chapter 3 of "In the Heat of the Night" serve to emphasize the cultural differences and racial tension within the story. They shed light on the challenges that Virgil Tibbs will face as he becomes involved in the investigation and the obstacles he will need to overcome. Feel free to ask if you have any more questions!