What is the symbolic representation of the pillars in Chapter 16?

The pillars of the courthouse are representative of the traditions of the Old South prior to the Civil War. Harper Lee describes the courthouse pillars as being "too heavy" to bear their burden. When the original courthouse burned down, the new courthouse was constructed around the pillars. This construction symbolizes the fact that even though the Civil War and emancipation were supposed to have freed the slaves, neither the war or emancipation eradicated racism and prejudice in the South. Racism and prejudice still existed, as symbolized by the pillars.