Three quotes that show Atticus is determined to defend Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird are when Atticus says that he is against "preserving polite fiction at the expense of human life," when he insists that Tom will not die until "the truth's told," and when he takes the radical position in court that while some black people might be immoral, this is "a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men."

On the surface level, Atticus makes Jem read to Mrs. Dubose to repent for ruining her flowers. His secondary purpose, however, is to teach his son a lesson about empathy. After her death, Atticus reveals that Mrs. Dubose was battling addiction, and that these reading sessions ultimately enabled her to quit morphine.

Atticus accuses Scout of cussing because he believes it is a phase all children go through to seek attention. He expects her to outgrow it when she realizes it doesn't attract notice. Despite Uncle Jack's disapproval and attempts to correct Scout, Atticus remains unconcerned, trusting that she will naturally stop using bad language over time.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus says that he pities Mayella Ewell, but his pity does not extend "so far as to her putting a man’s life at stake." Atticus pities Mayella because she lives with an abusive alcoholic and is a lonely, uneducated young woman. However, he does not dismiss or condone her decision to threaten Tom Robinson's life by falsely accusing him of rape.

Atticus means that the Ewells are the most disreputable family in Maycomb, known for their laziness and lack of honest work over three generations. Unlike other poor families like the Cunninghams, who are hardworking and proud, the Ewells live in squalor and are widely despised. Atticus offers to show Scout their living conditions to help her understand their reputation.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus's conversation with Scout regarding Boo Radley's situation is easier than expected because Sheriff Tate's lie reminds her of Atticus's earlier life lesson regarding mockingbirds. Scout is also able to associate Boo's character with Tom Robinson by recalling Mr. Underwood's editorial, which allows her to better understand the complex situation and Sheriff Tate's decision to conceal Boo's heroics.

Atticus sends Jem and Scout to the Radley house to keep them safe and out of the way when Miss Maudie's house catches fire. By positioning them across the street, Atticus ensures they are in sight and away from potential danger, such as cinders and ash that could ignite their house. Despite the Radley house's reputation, it offers a secure vantage point for observing the chaotic events while staying clear of harm.

Atticus explains to Jem that the "facts of life" in the segregated South reveal a harsh reality: racial bias significantly distorts justice. Despite the American legal ideal of equality, Tom Robinson's trial exemplifies how racial prejudice overrides fairness, as evidenced by his conviction on weak evidence. The jury's inability to judge impartially, due to ingrained racism, highlights the grim truth Atticus calls the "ugly facts of life."

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch defines real courage not as physical bravery but as perseverance in the face of certain defeat. He illustrates this through Mrs. Dubose, who battles a morphine addiction despite knowing she might not succeed, demonstrating mental courage. Atticus embodies this integrity by defending Tom Robinson against racial prejudice, knowing the likely outcome is defeat. His lesson to Jem emphasizes that true courage involves doing what is right, regardless of the odds.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch's closing arguments at Tom Robinson's trial emphasize the lack of medical evidence and contradictions in the testimonies of Bob and Mayella Ewell. He challenges the jury to transcend racial prejudice, urging them to judge based on facts, not bias. Atticus highlights the principle of equality in the courtroom. In his final message to Scout, Atticus conveys the lesson of understanding others by truly "seeing" them, using Boo Radley as an example of misunderstood kindness.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is symbolized by several items reflecting his character traits and values. His glasses represent both his physical vulnerability and intellectual clarity, highlighting his insight and fairness despite being nearly blind in one eye. The newspaper symbolizes his intellectual nature and community involvement. The mockingbird represents his moral integrity and harmlessness. His suit signifies his professionalism, while the rifle symbolizes his precision and skill as a lawyer.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch's wife, whose first name is never mentioned, was a Graham from Montgomery, Alabama. She died of a hereditary heart condition when Scout was two, leaving no memories for Scout but some for her brother, Jem. Her absence is a subtle presence in the novel, influencing the Finch family dynamic. Atticus raises Scout and Jem alone, with Aunt Alexandra stepping in to provide a female role model for Scout during the trial.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch faces severe criticism for defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. Quotes highlight this societal backlash, such as Francis calling Atticus a "nigger-lover," and Mrs. Dubose claiming he's "no better than the niggers and trash he works for." Despite the prejudice, Atticus defends Tom, emphasizing integrity and justice. His courtroom defense critiques racial bias and urges the jury to judge fairly, reflecting his commitment to equality and moral courage.