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Atticus Finch 's Moral Teachings

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As Harper Lee indirectly characterizes him, Atticus Finch is a man of prevalent intelligence, serene wisdom, progressive politics, and admirable behavior. He guides his children with these qualities as they face the harsh realities of racism in the people they have grown to know and trust. When Atticus gives Scout crucial moral advice concerning her fellow classmates, he tells her, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view … until you climb into his skin and walk in it.” (Chapter 3). Atticus’ moral teachings such as this one not only governs the development of Scout’s character but it clearly stipulates his wisdom and reflects the straightforward manner in which he leads by his principles. His …show more content…

At the same time, he conveys the role of an equitable father by telling Jem that their family is so much more fortunate and prospecting than Bob Ewell and his family will ever be. He exerts a sense of incompatible or clashing views--he indicates that he feels pity for Bob Ewell and his daughter while telling Jem that feeling frightened of Bob Ewell is not justified since the Ewells are so dysfunctional and classless in the eyes of Maycomb’s people. By depicting Atticus as a father of wisdom and understanding, Harper Lee asserts her vision or likeness of a hero in a time of prejudice. 2: Conflict with Bob Ewell, the trial, and the people of Maycomb Bob Ewell and the majority of Maycomb are indignant when Atticus voluntarily defends Tom Robinson, but they are even more furious at the outcome of the trial. Atticus is perceptive and courageous during the events of the trial as well as the tribulations concerning Mrs. Dubose. Regarding Bob Ewell harassing Atticus and spitting in his face, Scout narrates,“Miss Stephanie said Atticus didn’t bat an eye, just took out his handkerchief and wiped his face and stood there and let Mr. Ewell call him names wild horses could not bring her to repeat … I wish Bob Ewell wouldn’t chew tobacco.” (Chapter 23). Atticus’ graciousness in the face of such hate and ignorance illustrates his ability to respect those with absolutely no respect for him. He even finds reasons to understand where Bob Ewell is coming from, like the fact

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