What two things do we learn about Atticus's character in chapters 24-26 of To Kill a Mockingbird?

In chapter 24, Atticus interrupts his sister's missionary circle to tell Alexandra, Miss Maudie, and Cal that Tom Robinson was shot and killed while attempting to escape from Enfield Prison Farm. During their conversation, Atticus is visibly upset and exhausted. Scout watches as Atticus leans against the refrigerator, removes his glasses, and rubs his eyes. Atticus tells the ladies,

We had such a good chance... I told him what I thought, but I couldn’t in truth say that we had more than a good chance. I guess Tom was tired of white men’s chances and preferred to take his own. (Lee, 239)

Atticus's comments reveal that he is hopeful for Tom Robinson despite the realities of Tom's situation. Even after witnessing Tom become a victim of racial injustice, Atticus maintains hope that Tom will win his appeal. Atticus neglects to exercise perspective and view the situation from Tom's point of view. It was obvious that Tom was innocent during his trial, and Tom's wrongful conviction completely ruined any hope he had in the justice system. Though Atticus does not feel defeated at the verdict, he fails to realize that Tom does; had he seen this from Tom's perspective, he might have realized that Tom would be more willing to take a significant risk and assume he would lose his appeal. In this way, Atticus's infinite hope, idealism, and optimistic disposition contribute to his lack of understanding.

In chapter 25, Scout recalls Dill's story about witnessing Atticus break the news of Tom's death to Helen Robinson. Dill tells Scout that when Atticus arrived at Tom's home, he gently helped Tom's daughter down the steps before describing the details of Tom's tragic death to Helen. According to Dill, Helen immediately fell on the ground, and Atticus proceeded to carry her inside. Atticus remained inside the house for a long time and finally came out alone. Atticus's actions reveal his integrity and courage. He could have allowed someone else to break the difficult news to Helen Robinson, but he took on the responsibility himself. He also demonstrated his compassion and sympathy during the visit and tried his best to console Helen about the death of her husband.

What two things do we learn about Atticus's character in chapters 24-26 of To Kill a Mockingbird?

In chapters 25 and 26 of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, one thing we learn about Atticus's character is that he strikes a balance between being supportive and giving people space as the need arises. As a result, people continue to trust him, like his children and the citizens who continue to elect him to state legislature unopposed.

Atticus's supportiveness is particularly demonstrated in Chapter 25, when Scout recalls what Dill described for her of Atticus's actions concerning informing Helen Robinson of her husband's death. According to Dill, Helen had fallen to the ground the moment she had greeted Atticus, without Atticus even saying a word. Then, also according to Dill, Atticus, together with Calpurnia, had "lifted Helen to her feet and half carried, half walked her to the cabin" (Ch. 25). Atticus's action of lifting and partially carrying Helen to her cabin represents Atticus's typical uplifting, supportive behavior. In raising Helen to her feet and helping her inside the house, he is giving her emotional support, just as he gave her husband emotional support by putting his all into her husband's defense. We see Atticus display similarly uplifting, supportive behavior towards his children, such as when he allows Scout to climb into his lap in Chapter 26, even though he says she is getting too big.

Yet, Atticus is not the sort of person who smothers another person with unwanted support. Instead, he is also the sort of person who knows when to give another person needed space to grow and thereby strikes a balance between being supportive and granting space. We see him strike this balance in Chapter 26 when he intimates he knew all along that his children were pulling antics, such as trespassing on the Radleys' property, to try and get a look at their neighbor Arthur Radley. Yet, he intentionally left them to their own devices because he knew they needed room to grow and learn from their mistakes. We learn that Atticus knew far more about their antics than he had let on to knowing when he tells Scout not to get caught up in her obsession about Arthur again and gives her the following warning:

I'll tell you right now: stop it. I'm too old to go chasing you off the Radley property. Besides, it's dangerous. You might get shot. You know Mr. Nathan shoots at every shadow he sees, even shadows that leave size-four bare footprints. You were lucky not to be killed. (Ch. 26)

Atticus's above speech astonishes Scout because it not only lets her know how much he really knew, it also lets her know just how much Atticus let the children get away with. In other words, through Atticus's above speech, both Scout and the reader learn just how much room Atticus gives his children to grow while at the same time being emotionally supportive when they need him to be.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

In Harper Lee's classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is depicted as a thoughtful, honest man, who is morally upright and tries his best to instill positive values in his children. Lee illustrates Atticus's positive character traits through his actions, relationships, and numerous life lessons.

Atticus practices tolerance by sympathizing with Mrs. Dubose, Walter Cunningham, and even the malevolent Bob Ewell. Atticus also encourages his children to treat others with respect and exercise perspective in order to sympathize and understand people. In chapter 3, Atticus tells Scout,

You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view-...-until you climb into his skin and walk around in it (Lee, 30).

Atticus is also a fair, humble man who believes that it is important to protect innocent, defenseless beings and people. Atticus not only tells Jem and Scout that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird but also lives his truth by valiantly defending Tom Robinson in front of a racist jury. He also instructs his children to leave Boo Radley alone and protects his community from a rabid dog.

Atticus is depicted as a conscientious, brave man who is not afraid to follow his heart and stand up for what is right regardless of peer pressure or the circumstances attached to his actions. Atticus shares his definition of real courage with Jem and Scout by saying,

—I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do (Lee, 115).

Atticus then demonstrates his courage by preventing a lynch mob from harming his client and defending Tom Robinson during a controversial trial. Scout and Jem admire their father and appreciate his honesty. They never hesitate to ask him anything, and they know that he will always support them. Atticus is an excellent father, lawyer, representative, and neighbor. He is the epitome of a sincere, morally upright man, which makes him one of literature's most beloved characters.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus Finch is one of the most famous literary characters known. Harper Lee goes to great detail to show us the kind of man he is. Jem and Scout don't see their father as anything special in the beginning, but we the readers, see from the very start, that Atticus is one of a kind.

Atticus is kind and fair. He is stern, but also very loving. He treats his children with respect and talks to them like they are adults. He answers all of their questions with honesty. He is always consistent, and doesn't waiver in his beliefs. Atticus is seen as the moral backbone in Maycomb. He fights for justice and teaches his children to do the same thing.

When Atticus takes the case of Tom Robinson, the town starts talking about him defending a black man. Jem and Scout hear this talk and ask Atticus about it, and he answers them in the most beautiful way, to teach them that you have to live with yourself first.

"They're entitled to think that, they're entitled to full respect for their opinions. But before I can live with other folks I've got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience." 

Atticus is telling his children that he has to live with what his choices are before he please anyone else. He fights for the rights of people who are cheated. Atticus knows that Tom will never get a fair trial, because he is black, but he works his hardest and proves that the man is innocent. After Tom is convicted, Atticus tries to teach his children that there will always be people that treat black men wrong and that is not right.

"As you grow older, you'll see white men cheat black men everyday of your life, but let me tell you something and don't you forget it- whenever a white man does that to a black man, no matter who he is, how rich he is, or how fine a family he comes from, that white man is trash."

Every so often, you run across a character, that will always stay with you. That is the true art of a writer. Harper Lee did her job with the character of Atticus Finch. He will live in our lives as if we really know him.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus is a pleasantly complex character. He is a responsible and loving father, a man who concentrates on essences, not externals, a brave man, and a clear and ethical thinker. (Can you tell I approve of him?)

You can see these qualities throughout the book. He faces a rabid dog (brave, responsible). He sees Scout for who she is, not what the community thinks girls should be. He defends African Americans when the community says he should not, and so on.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

The fiftieth anniversary edition of Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird (New York: HarperLuxe, 2010) presents some of the following traits of Atticus Finch on the following pages:

• His diplomacy in dealing with his children (page 4).
• His acquisition of a law degree (page 5).
• His wisdom in counseling his clients (page 6).
• His support for Calpurnia in her disputes with the children (page 8).
• His tendency not to talk about the Radleys (page 16).
• His hard work and devotion to reading (page 27).
• His willingness to accept non-cash payments for his legal services when people could not pay cash (page 34).
• His knowledge of agriculture (page 38).
• His respect for Calpurnia’s intelligence (page 39).
• His pleasure in reading with Scout (page 47).
• His distaste for the Ewells, whom he considers disreputable citizens (49).
• His willingness to be firm in disciplining his children when he thinks they have done something wrong (65-66).

Preparing the rest of such a list should prove very easy. Simply move through the book, look for references to “Atticus,” see how he behaves, what he says, or what is said about him, and then generalize on the basis of that evidence, as in the examples above.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

To add to the excellent response above, I would add empathy. Remember Atticus's mantra - to crawl inside someone else's skin before judging them. Atticus consistently does this in all instances - it is why he has Jem read to Mrs. Dubose, it is why he does not get angry with Mr Ewell when he spits in his face, it is why he puts up with his sister's digs at his parenting skills and his decision to defend Tom, it is why he makes the deal with Scout so they can still read so her first grade teacher doesn't get angry at her. In doing this, Atticus always leads by example and follows through with his actions.

Another trait is that Atticus is honest. I think the best example of this when he believes Jem was responsible for Ewell's death. Atticus doesn't hesitate to begin planning the trial and what will happen. However, it is Tate who finally gets Atticus to believe that Jem did not do it.

What character traits of Atticus Finch are illustrated in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus is both a product of his time as well as ahead of his time. He does not crusade to change the prevailing racial and sexist bigotry of Maycomb, but in his personal dealings he is scrupulously fair and just. He has the ability to see things from the other person's point of view. This applies to his dealings with Bob Ewell just as much as it does to Calpurnia and Tom Robinson. Miss Maudie sums Atticus up when she tells Scout that Atticus is the same person whether he is in a court room or just going about his daily business. Integrity, a sense of justice and fairness, honesty and basic human decency are all traits that characterise Atticus Finch and have made him a benchmark in the legal profession to this day.

What are four adjectives that describe Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird?

In To Kill A Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a man who has integrity. He does the right thing even when no one is observing him. He is a patient man. He explains to Scout as to why he feels the need to represent Tom Robinson even though he realizes it will be difficult to win the trial. When Scout questions as to why her father is defending Tom knowing the community is so against it, he shares that he could not hold his head up in public if he did not try to defend Tom Robinson:

"For a number of reasons,” said Atticus. “The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this county in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem to do something again.”

Atticus is responsible. He faces his challenge with determination. Also, Atticus is an insightful parent. He desires to teach his children that doing the right thing is necessary even in the face of a community filled with wrath caused by his decision to take on the trial.

Atticus is sincerely religious. His faith moves him forward in such a difficult trial. 

"This case, Tom Robinson's case, is something that goes to the essence of a man's conscience- Scout, I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man."

No doubt, Atticus is a strong, courageous man who has outstanding morals and values. He is not as feeble as Scout describes him in chapter ten. He is mentally, spiritually, and physically tenacious. He desires to change Maycomb community for the better. 

What do characters in To Kill a Mockingbird say or think about Atticus Finch?

Various community members comment on Atticus Finch's character throughout the novel. The majority of the racist citizens believe that Atticus is wrong for defending Tom Robinson and have negative things to say about him. In chapter 9, Cecil Jacobs reiterates his parents' comments regarding Atticus by telling Scout,

"My folks said your daddy was a disgrace an‘ that nigger oughta hang from the water-tank!" (Lee 79).

Scout's cousin also reiterates his grandmother's negative comments regarding Atticus by telling Scout,

Just what I said. Grandma says it’s bad enough he lets you all run wild, but now he’s turned out a nigger-lover we’ll never be able to walk the streets of Maycomb agin. He’s ruinin‘ the family, that’s what he’s doin’. (Lee, 85)

In chapter 11, Mrs. Dubose also expresses her negative feelings regarding Atticus by telling his children,

"Your father’s no better than the niggers and trash he works for" (Lee, 105).

Despite the many citizens who dislike Atticus, there is also a faction of community members who support and respect him. As the citizens are taking their seats to watch Tom Robinson's trial, Scout overhears the men of the Idler's Club comment on her father's intelligence. They say,

"Atticus Finch’s a deep reader, a mighty deep reader" (Lee, 165).

When Scout takes Dill out of the courtroom to settle him down, she has a conversation with Dolphus Raymond, who elaborates on the prejudice throughout Maycomb's community. He comments on Atticus's character by telling Scout,

I don’t reckon it’s—Miss Jean Louise, you don’t know your pa’s not a run-of-the-mill man, it’ll take a few years for that to sink in—you haven’t seen enough of the world yet. (Lee, 205)

Following the trial, Miss Maudie shows her support and respect for Atticus by telling Jem and Scout,

I simply want to tell you that there are some men in this world who were born to do our unpleasant jobs for us. Your father’s one of them...We’re so rarely called on to be Christians, but when we are, we’ve got men like Atticus to go for us." (Lee, 219)

What does Atticus Finch's office reveal about his character in To Kill a Mockingbird?

In the first chapter of the novel, Scout introduces her father to the audience and mentions that Atticus practices law in their small town of Maycomb, Alabama. Scout then offers a description of Atticus's spare office by saying,

Atticus’s office in the courthouse contained little more than a hat rack, a spittoon, a checkerboard and an unsullied Code of Alabama. (Lee, 5)

The spare nature of Atticus' office indicates that he is not a material, superficial man and only requires the bare necessities to carry out his job. He is not interested in elaborately decorating his office, which underscores his humble personality. Although Atticus is an accomplished lawyer and an elected official, he remains down to earth and is in touch with his roots, which explains why he has a spittoon in his office. Chewing tobacco is common in the small town of Maycomb, and Atticus is one with the people. He treats them as his equal and is "related by blood or marriage to nearly every family in the town." The spittoon and hat rack make his clients feel comfortable and at home, which portrays Atticus as accommodating and hospitable.

The checkerboard in Atticus' office symbolically represents his logistical mind. As a lawyer, Atticus brilliantly crafts his arguments and must stay one step ahead of the prosecution. Atticus is also a competitive, intelligent man, who relies on his mind to win cases. The unsullied Code of Alabama in Atticus' office illustrates his morally-upright character and perception of justice. Atticus upholds the law at all costs and believes that each citizen deserves equal treatment in a court of law, which explains why he valiantly defends Tom Robinson in front of a racist jury and audience. Overall, Atticus' spare office reveals that he is a humble, relatable man, who is intelligent and just.

How does Atticus Finch perceive himself in To Kill a Mockingbird?

In Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, we are never really told how Atticus views himself. We are really only told how others view Atticus. Based on others' views of Atticus and certain things he says, we can speculate on the ways in which Atticus feels it is important to be seen--how he wants others to see him. If we know the ways in which Atticus wants to be seen, we can speculate on the ways in which Atticus views himself, provided we can believe Atticus sees himself as being successful in achieving his goals.

One way in which other characters view Atticus is as a very brave man. Scout particularly reflects on Atticus's bravery when she observes him nobly socializing with Mrs. Dubose, the reputed meanest old lady in the neighborhood. Despite the fact that the ill Mrs. Dubose always has a harsh, critical word to say to everyone, Atticus respectfully removes his hat in her presence, pays her a compliment, chats with her about the latest "courthouse news," tells her he "hoped with all his heart she'd have a good day tomorrow," shows affection to his daughter whom Mrs. Dubose had recently slandered, and heads home. In observing his ability to converse with and show kindness to Mrs. Dubose, Scout reflects, "It was times like these when I thought my father, who hated guns and had never been to any wars, was the bravest man who ever lived" (Ch. 11).

We also know Atticus feels it is important to teach his children what true bravery is. Atticus uses Mrs. Dubose to teach his children about bravery since he saw her as the "bravest person [he] ever knew" due to her determination to relinquish her morphine addiction, despite the fact that she was dying and in significant pain. Atticus explains the lesson in bravery he wanted to teach his children in his following speech to Jem:

I wanted you to see something about her--I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. (Ch. 11)

Atticus's reference to being "licked" before you start something but starting anyway refers to his own decision to defend Tom Robinson since he knows it is unlikely he will be able to win the case, despite lack of incriminating evidence, due to the jury's racial prejudices, but he is determined to defend Robinson nonetheless because he knows it is the right thing to do. Therefore, Atticus's speech to Jem also reflects Atticus's own bravery, showing us that, not only does Atticus want his children to see what true bravery is, he wants them to see him as acting bravely. We can, therefore, speculate that Atticus sees himself as brave based on what we know of how he wants to be seen.

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as a father, brother, lawyer, and neighbor in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus Finch has a stellar reputation as a father, brother, lawyer, and neighbor in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird. Atticus is depicted as a morally upright man who takes the time to teach his children valuable life lessons and instill a sense of integrity in them. Atticus not only gives his children significant life lessons but also acts as a positive role model to them. Atticus lives his truth by valiantly defending Tom Robinson and demonstrating real courage when faced with adversity. Atticus is also a loyal brother, allowing Alexandra to live with him and help raise Scout. Despite disagreeing with Alexandra on several important issues, Atticus is a compassionate, thoughtful brother who genuinely cares about his sister's opinion. Atticus is also extremely close to his brother and even helped pay John's college tuition.

Atticus is regarded as one of the best lawyers in the county and is specially selected by Judge Taylor to defend Tom Robinson because he knows that Atticus will present the truth. Atticus is an intelligent man, and the members of his community are aware that he is well read and knowledgeable about the law. Atticus is also a beloved neighbor, who is friendly to everyone and goes out of his way to help anyone in need. Atticus even has a positive relationship with Mrs. Dubose and is elected to represent Maycomb County in the state legislature. Despite the fact that the majority of Atticus's prejudiced neighbors disagree with his decision to defend Tom Robinson, they remain amicable with him and come to his aid when necessary.

How does Atticus exemplify a good lawyer in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus reveals that he is an excellent lawyer during his brilliant defense of Tom Robinson, who is accused of assaulting and raping a white woman. It is important to mention that Atticus is different than other lawyers in the Deep South and genuinely believes that black people should be treated equally in society as well as in a court of law. Atticus not only respects the justice system but also upholds its principles to the highest standards. He reveals his brilliance and excellent skills as a lawyer by calmly reacting to disgruntled witnesses, paying close attention to their testimonies, asking important questions, and presenting moving arguments which prove his client's innocence.

Atticus's case is focused on revealing Bob Ewell's motivation to assault his daughter, highlighting the lack of evidence presented during the proceedings, emphasizing Tom's handicap, and influencing the witnesses to contradict themselves. During Bob's testimony, Atticus allows him to behave like an insolent, disrespectful man and shows the jury that he is left-handed, which he later uses to suggest that Bob was his daughter's perpetrator. During Mayella's testimony, Atticus forces her to contradict her statements before rapidly asking her hard, direct questions that prove she is lying.

Atticus once again demonstrates his genius by noting Tom's past criminal record to reveal that his client has nothing to hide before he emphasizes Tom's handicap. In Atticus's most dramatic show of brilliance, he presents a moving, passionate closing argument, where he summarizes the case and challenges the jury to judge the proceedings without prejudice. During his closing arguments, Atticus presents himself as a peer of the jurors, reflects on the evidence that suggests Bob assaulted Mayella, and reminds the jury of their duty. Tragically, Atticus's brilliant defense of Tom Robinson is not enough to win the case.

How does Atticus exemplify a good lawyer in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus is ahead of his time as an attorney in many ways. For one, he does a great deal of the "leg work" for making his case by himself; he does not rely solely upon the alleged "investigations" of others. In addition, Atticus illustrates a positive example of the ethic of care.

Such an ethic states that one must consider the human impact of professional actions. For journalists, the ethic of care means careful editing or leaving out certain photographs due to their damaging nature, while for attorneys, it means thinking consistently about how a client will be affected by one's decisions. In the case of To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus's decision flies in the face of social norms, community outrage, and even threats against his own life. Through his decision to defend Tom Robinson, Atticus perhaps shows us best exactly how "good" a lawyer he really is.

What adjectives would you use to describe Atticus Finch?

Atticus is principled and compassionate. He does not live by the same rules as the rest of his society. Although he is assigned Tom Robinson’s case, he actually does his best to win it. No one expects him to, and even arguing the case makes him pretty unpopular.

Atticus is unusual in how he views the world. He sends his children to read to Mrs. Dubose, an old woman trying to wean herself off a morphine addiction. He wants them to realize courage comes in many forms, saying,

I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do (Chapter 11). 

Atticus believes his children will benefit from seeing someone win her own fight. He thinks it will give them a better understanding of what he is about to do. Atticus will have to show similar courage in defending Tom Robinson in the trial, because his defense of a black man is so unpopular in Maycomb.

Scout often gets into arguments because people insult her father. Atticus wants Scout and Jem to understand why he feels he needs to defend Tom, even though he is unlikely to win. It is the attempt that matters to Atticus, because attempting to help is the right thing to do, whether he was appointed or not.

The compassion Atticus feels for others is something he tries to pass on to his children. Atticus teaches Scout and Jem to treat their neighbors and people of lower classes and different skin colors with respect. He tells Scout that she needs to look at things from others’ perspectives. 

“First of all,” he said, “if you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you’ll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view” (Chapter 3). 

It is Atticus’s ability to walk around inside other people's skins that makes him such a good lawyer. He can make the jury feel for him. He can be compassionate for Tom Robinson despite his skin color. He understands Mayella Ewell is lonely and that her father beat her. Atticus knows how other people think.

What makes Atticus Finch a good father, lawyer, and friend in To Kill a Mockingbird?

As the unofficial conscience of Maycomb, Atticus takes all of these titles seriously. As a lawyer, Atticus is willing to accept cases he never hoped to take, such as in the trial of Tom Robinson. He was handed the job by Judge Taylor, who knew Atticus would provide Tom the best defense possible; and Atticus took the case knowing that it might bring him enemies--for both himself and his family. He represents men who cannot pay in cash (Walter Cunningham), but he has enough faith in humanity to know that he will be paid in some manner at some later time. As a father, Atticus does his best to raise his children in a single-parent household. Though the family has few luxuries, his children are never wanting for the necessities of life. He gives his children a great deal of independence, and he serves as the best possible role model in the hopes that they will trust him enough to come to him with their problems.

"I just hope that Jem and Scout come to me for their answers instead of listening to the town. I hope they trust me enough."

Atticus is color-blind when it comes to the races, and he considers just about everyone he meets (aside from Bob Ewell) as his friend. People come to Atticus when they need advice, and they hand over their biggest problems to him because they know he is the right man for whatever job may arise. According to Miss Maudie,

"... there are some men in this world who were born to do our unpleasant jobs for us. Your father's one of them."

What are four leadership qualities that Atticus Finch exhibits in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus Finch's character, in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, serves as the moral compass. Both his children, Scout and Jem, and the community look to Atticus during challenges which speak to moral dilemmas and conflict. Many of his quotes can be identified as ones which both speak to his leadership and morality.

One quote which speaks to his role as a leader is as follows:

The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience.

Here, Atticus is speaking on the importance of being an individual, even when it seems that everyone is against you. This quote allows readers to understand a very important aspect of the role of a leader: it may not always be the best to follow the majority. In some circumstances, the majority is wrong, and it is the individual who makes it right.

Another quote which illustrates Atticus's leadership is found in the following:

You just hold your head high and keep those fists down. No matter what anybody says to you, don’t you let ‘em get your goat. Try fighting with your head for a change.

Here, Atticus is stating the importance of one keeping calm. Atticus knows that people will challenge those who do not conform to "majority rule." Under these circumstances, one must be able to remain calm and not take things to a physical level. Instead, Atticus offers advice regarding using one's words to win the battle. Good leaders know that violence does not always solve problems.

Leaders understand the importance of courage.

I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand.

For Atticus, he does not want his children to think that a gun is the means to an end in every problem which arises. Real courage, the characteristic of a true leader, is understanding that you may not always win. Yet, even with this knowledge, one must take on the challenge.

Finally, Atticus's (probably) most notable line identifies the importance of understanding another person's point-of-view:

You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.

This line speaks to Atticus's understanding of tolerance and perspective. As a leader, it is important to understand why others make the decisions in their lives that they do. One must know far more about another person than simply the action itself to truly define who someone really is.

What are four leadership qualities that Atticus Finch exhibits in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Some of Atticus' leadership traits may not coincide with Margaret Thatcher's, but...

HE LOVES HIS FELLOW MAN.  Atticus is color blind when it comes to the races, and as Maudie says,

"Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets." 

GOOD PARENT.  He is a single parent, but he teaches his children right from wrong, particularly by his own personal example. He gives Jem and Scout enough independence for them to make many of their own decisions, and his warnings usually serve to stop them going too far in their games and excursions. We know the children respect Atticus as adults, because on the first page of the novel Scout tells the reader that she and Jem still go to Atticus when they need the right answer to a problem. 

We were far too old to settle an argument with a fistfight, so we consulted Atticus.

HONEST & TRUSTWORTHY.  He is constantly reelected unopposed as Maycomb's representative to the Alabama legislature--a testimony to the man with whom many people may disagree but nearly all respect. He keeps his promises and puts his responsibilities over his personal matters, sometimes to the detriment of his family. According to Miss Maudie,

"We're so rarely called on to be Christians, but when we are, we've got men like Atticus to go for us."

INTELLIGENCE. Atticus may well be the most intelligent man in Maycomb, in spite of having educated himself without the benefit of going to school. He is a capable lawyer, well-read, and adept at understanding what goes on in the mind of others. Miss Maudie claims that

"... he can make somebody's will so airtight can't anybody meddle with it."

What are some things that the other characters have said about Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Whenever someone possesses a strong character, people usually feel strongly about this person, either admiring or disparaging him. Such is the case with Atticus Finch, whose admirers are many, but his enemies few.

• Miss Maudie - The neighbor and friend of Atticus Finch, Miss Maudie tries to explain to the children that the Radleys may have secrets that go on inside there house that others cannot imagine, but Scout says that Atticus does not treat her any differently when she is inside or outside. Kindly, Miss Maudie remarks, "Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets."  Later, when the children see their father shoot the rabid dog and they are amazed at his expert aim, they wonder why he does not hunt. But, Miss Maudie explains,

"If your father's anything, he's civilized in his heart. Marksmanship's a gift of God, a talent....I think maybe he put his gun down when he realized that God had given him an unfair advantage over most living things."

• Francis - The cousin of Jem and Scout, Francis tells Scout, "I guess it ain't your fault if Uncle Atticus is a n***r-lover besides, but I'm here to tell you it certainly does mortify the rest of the family--" This remark enrages Scout so much that she fights with Francis.
• Mrs. DuBose - Another neighbor of the Finches, Mrs. DuBose derogates Atticus, saying to Jem and Scout, "Your father's no better than the n****rs and trash he works for!" Then, when Jem must read to her, she would allude to Atticus's "n****r-loving propensities."
• In Chapter 13, the children learn from their father that Aunt Alexandra does not think he is raising them correctly,

"Your aunt has asked me to try and impress upon you and Jean Louise that you are not from run-of-the-mill people, that you are the product of several generations' gentle breeding--"

• The Idlers' Club - The men who make a habit of sitting outside the courthouse express their opinions about Atticus Finch's acting as defense attorney for Tom Robinson:

"...thinks he know what he's doing," "oh-h now, I souln't say that," says another. "Atticus Finch's a deep reader, a mighty deep reader."

When one Idler points out that the court has appointed Atticus, another counters,"Yeah, but Atticus aims to defend him. That's what I don't like about it."

• Aunt Rachel - After the trial, Dill's aunt says, "If a man like Atticus Finch wants to butt his head against a stone wall it's his head.
• Bob Ewell - When Atticus is in town, Ewell spits in his face and taunts him, "Too proud to fight, you n***r-lovin' bastard?" Also, after Tom dies, Ewell said "...it made one down and about two more to go."
• Mrs. Merriweather - At the Missionary Tea in the Finch home, the sanctimonious Mrs. Merriweather says," I tell you there are some good but misguided people in this town. Good, but misguided. Folks in this town who think they're doing right, I mean."
• Mr. Underwood - In his editorial, Mr. Underwood implies of Atticus, according to Scout, the narrator,

...Atticus had used every tool available to free men to save Tom Robinson, but in the secret courts of men's hearts Atticus had no case. 

What qualities make Atticus Finch a respectable character?

It's often said that those who seek respect must give respect. And there can be no doubt that Atticus is deeply respectful of other people. He has this remarkable ability to put himself into other people's shoes, even if they've acted unpleasantly towards him. Take Mrs. Dubose, for example. Most people in town see her as nothing but a grouchy old lady who readily shouts abuse at anyone she doesn't like. (And she doesn't seem to like anyone.) But Atticus's extraordinary degree of empathy allows him to see beneath her mean-spirited, ornery exterior. He knows that Mrs. Dubose suffers from a long-standing addiction to morphine that she's been struggling to break for some years. In his eyes, this makes her the most courageous person he's ever known.

Atticus even shows respect toward the revolting Bob Ewell, despite his spitting right in Atticus's face and threatening to get back at him. Once again, Atticus puts himself into someone else's shoes. He knows that Bob's still smarting from his humiliating experience on the witness stand during the trial of Tom Robinson, when Atticus made him look like a complete fool in front of the whole court.

It's this astonishing capacity for respecting others, more than anything else, that earns Atticus the respect which is his due.

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as being a mockingbird in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird?

The first time a mockingbird is mentioned is in Chapter Ten, when Atticus speaks to Scout and Jem about their new rifles. Jem relates the following:

"I'd rather you shot at tin cans in the back yard, but I know you'll go after birds. Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird."

That was the only time I ever heard Atticus say it was a sin to do something, and I asked Miss Maudie about it.

"Your father's right," she said. "Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don't eat up people's gardens, don't nest in corncribs, they don't do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That's why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird."

In this context the symboloc meaning is obvious. Mockingbirds bring us pleasure by singing beautifully. They copy the sounds other birds make to add to our pleasure. The birds are deemed harmless and innocent and only wish to bring us joy. In this sense, then, the meaning aptly describes Boo Radley and Tom Robinson. It certainly does describe Atticus as well since he wants to bring good into the world by fighting injustice. He teaches his children values to make them become upright, respectful and respectable. He does not mean anyone any harm. 

However, more pertinent in Atticus' case are the other symbolic connotations the word has. Mockingbirds are seen as extremely territorial and will fight to protect their young. This is a quality shown by Atticus, especially in the incident relating to the rabid dog which he shoots and kills with a single shot. Another symbolic attribute of mockingbirds is communication. This is true of Atticus, for he not only educates his children but also dispenses common-sense advice to all and sundry. Furthermore, as a lawyer, he has to communicate well, as he does during Tom Robinson's trial where he, in actual fact, irrevocably proves his innocence.

Furthermore, certain belief systems (such as Shamanism) ascribe intelligence to mockingbirds. This is clearly an attribute that Atticus has been richly blessed with. From this stems his desire to educate his children and others as well as his ability to be devoid of prejudice or stereotyping. Courage is also a quality displayed by mockingbirds when they defend their nests - they will fight predators much larger than themselves, a characteristic most admirably and pertinently displayed by Atticus when he decides to defend Tom Robinson. He knows that he will be ridiculed and severely criticized for his decision but fearlessly ventures forth to defend an innocent man.

It is tragic that all Atticus' efforts to help Tom eventually come to naught. Tom Robinson ultimately dies because of others' bigotry and hatred - a truly damning indictment against a society which has gone awry.

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as being a mockingbird in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird?

When Atticus tells Jem that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird, he is trying to explain the nature of some people. Atticus is not necessarily the one being compared to as a mockingbird. Harper Lee was trying to make us, the reader, know there were certain characters that were to be compared to the lovely bird.

We can see that Boo, most of all, is the one to be compared to a mockingbird. He doesn't do anything to hurt anyone on purpose, he just makes sure that Jem and Scout are protected. There is an innocence about Boo that he will always have. When Scout compares the mockingbird to Boo, at the end of the book, we see that by getting the police involved would be like shooting a mockingbird. Boo only wants the children to safe and he will do whatever he can to make sure that happens.

Boo is the ultimate mockingbird. All he does is keep Jem and Scout safe, and Atticus makes sure that Boo is kept safe from the town and police. He knows that the townspeople would become a nuisance and Boo doesn't need that in his life. Atticus knows that Boo just needs to be left alone and be able to continue to live his life in peace. 

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as being a mockingbird in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus does good for people. He makes beautiful music as he helps those in need. In this way, he could be considered a mockingbird. He is gentle and kind. He represents the good versus the evil in the town of Maycomb. Atticus defends the innocent. He teaches his children not to judge others until they have walked around in someone's else's skin. 

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as being a mockingbird in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird?

Although Atticus displays several of the attributes of the mockingbird--he is peaceful and tries to only present goodness in a sinful world--he is no innocent. Unlike the simple-minded characteristics of the book's other human mockingbirds (Boo, Tom and the children), Atticus sees the evil in the world and fully understands its implications, and he seeks to combat it and protect his own children from it.

How is Atticus Finch portrayed as being a mockingbird in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird?

I think it's a bit iffy to say he is this because mockingbirds are supposed to be kind of helpless in this story.  But he is, at least, someone who only tries to bring good to his community.  He tries to "make music" by doing things the right way and by being very moral and principled.

What are three character traits of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus Finch is a man of integrity. Integrity means doing the right thing, even if it results in becoming unpopular or putting yourself at risk. Atticus shows his integrity when he mounts a fair defense for Tom Robinson, a black man who has been accused of raping a white woman. In doing so, Atticus breaks the unwritten Southern code that says that whites should always stick together against blacks. At the trial, the black community in Maycomb shows its respect for Atticus for giving Tom Robinson a fair defense. Scout writes,

I looked around. They were standing. All around us and in the balcony on the opposite wall, the Negroes were getting to their feet. Reverend Syke’s voice was as distant as Judge Taylor’s:

“Miss Jean Louise, stand up. Your father’s passin’.”

Atticus is also a person of empathy. He is able to put himself in other people's shoes and understand why they might be suffering or how to deal with them effectively. He counsels Scout to practice empathy after she has a day of run-ins with her first grade teacher, Miss Caroline, who is new to Maycomb:

“If you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you’ll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view—"

“Sir?”

“—until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

Atticus is also a man of compassion who wants to protect the innocent. He tells Jem,

“I’d rather you shot at tin cans in the back yard, but I know you’ll go after birds. Shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit ‘em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”

When Scout asks Miss Maudie why that is a sin, she explains that mockingbirds are innocent birds who sing and go about their business harmlessly. There is no reason to kill them, and therefore, in Atticus's compassionate eyes, it is a sin to do so.

What are three character traits of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Humble: In Chapter 10, Atticus reluctantly takes Sheriff Tate's gun and kills a rabid dog named Tim Johnson. His children are awestruck, and Jem asks Miss Maudie why he never told them that he was an expert marksman. Maudie says,

"People in their right minds never take pride in their talents" (Lee 62).

Tolerant: In Chapter 11, Atticus displays his tolerant disposition after Jem complains about Mrs. Dubose's derogatory comments. Atticus tells his son,

"Easy does it, son...She's an old lady and she's ill. You just hold your head high and be a gentleman" (Lee 63).

Fair: Atticus is a fair man who gives everybody an equal chance and the benefit of the doubt throughout the novel. In Chapter 9, Scout punches her cousin in the face after he makes several rude comments about Atticus. Scout's Uncle Jack quickly grabs and spanks her for hitting Francis. Later on that evening, Scout tells her uncle that he is not fair. Scout goes on to say,

"When Jem an' I fuss, Atticus doesn't ever just listen to Jem's side of it, he hears mine too..." (Lee 54).

In To Kill a Mockingbird, what qualities make Atticus an outstanding lawyer?

A worthy lawyer must be observant, objective, unbiased, and evaluate a case solely upon the evidence.  In addition, "To Kill a Mockingbird," Atticus Finch practicing these precepts of his profession in his personal life; he literally "practices what he preaches."  For instance, in Chapter 2, an objective Atticus explains to Scout that the Cunninghams and the Ewells are different from one another and, as such, must be examined with their values in mind, not solely by Finch values.  Also, he explains to Scout that she should not generalize in judging people such as the Ewells. For example when Scout says that Mr. Ewell should not drink away their relief checks, Atticus replies,

Of course he shoudn't, but he'll never change his ways.  Are you going to take out your disapproval on the children?

This principle Atticus consistently applies to others, such as the Radleys.  For, he scolds the children for pestering Boo Radley because the father has made him a recluse:

What Mr. Radley did was his own business....What Mr. Radley did might seem peculiar to us, but it did not seem peculiar  to him.

With his respect for the individual, Atticus questions Jem about putting Boo's life on display "for the edification of the neighborhood," implying that the children must respect others.  That Atticus is a clever lawyer is also evident in this episode as he has returned from work for a file "he had forgotten to take...that morning."  Jem realizes "he had been done in by the oldest lawyer's trick on record (pretending to forget something so that he can catch the children "in the act").

As he does with the families mentioned, Atticus applies his close powers of observation and objectivity to others in the town.  He chides the children for disliking the irascible Mrs. Dubose as they do not understand her illness and addiction.  For punishment he assigns Jem the task of reading to Mrs. Dubose after school so that Jem himself can observe and learn who Mrs. Dubose really is.  This method of allowing someone else to observe on his/her own is effective as a parent as well as a lawyer who allows his jury to observe without previous opinions being suggested to them. 

When he is assigned the case for Tom Robinson, he is unbiased in his treatment of both Tom and the despicable Ewells.  When an angry mob comes to the jail for Tom, Atticus places his life in danger to do his job as defender, and he does not back down. Later, at the trial, his close powers of observation assist him in this case, also, as Atticus points out that Tom could not have committed an action since it would have required him to use his wasted arm.

Charitable, Atticus finds redeeming qualities in nearly everyone.  To his own sister, Alexandra, he loyally defends Calpurnia for her loving ways with the children, telling his sister,

She's a faithful member of this family and you'll simply have to accept things the way they are...We still need Cal as much as we ever did.

  Atticus is able to balance his emotions against his rational side, and for this ability and his other sterling qualities such as integrity and loyalty, he is an excellent lawyer.

How does Atticus Finch represent honesty and goodness in To Kill a Mockingbird?

The conscience of Maycomb, Atticus Finch is a Lincolnesque character: A tall, liberal-minded attorney who cannot tell a lie, Atticus believes in equality for all people--black or white--and he treats everyone he encounters with respect. When his children ask him a question, he always answers them in a truthful manner, even when the subjects are touchy ones about "rape" and being a "nigger-lover." He believes that cheating a black man is the worst possible offense a white man can make, and the respect shown to him by the black population is best shown when the entire assemblage in the "colored balcony" stands to honor him following the trial. When the people of the Quarters deliver food to his house as a way of saying thanks for his staunch defense of Tom Robinson, Atticus tells Calpurnia to

"--tell them they must never do this again. Times are too hard."

Following Bob Ewell's death, Atticus at first believes Jem to be the killer, and he realizes that his son must face the consequences:

"... nobody's hushing this up. I don't live that way."

Atticus does what he can to help his clients, taking trade when they cannot afford to pay him in cash. He defends Tom vigorously, angering some of the townspeople who know that he will try his best to win the case. He furiously attacks Mayella Ewell's story, though it goes against his nature to question the word of a woman. He serves as the town's representative to the Alabama legislature, running unopposed in each election. His humble nature does not allow him to brag about his marksmanship skills to Jem and Scout, and he treats Mrs. Dubose with the utmost respect, even though she claims that he is "no better than the niggers and trash he works for" behind his back. He refuses to believe that Bob Ewell will stoop to his method of revenge, and he even tries to explain Bob's motives to Jem following the trial. He provides no gossip about Boo Radley, keeping tight-lipped whenever his children show their curiosity, and he demands that Jem and Scout respect Boo's privacy. But Atticus doesn't forget Boo following Bob's attack:

"Thank you for my children, Arthur," he said.

How does Harper Lee present Boo Radley in To Kill A Mockingbird? Refer closely to the text.

Initially she presents Boo as someone to fear. He  presents him through stories and myth.  Scout thinks he is

".... six-and-a-half feet tall, judging from his tracks; he dined on raw squirrels and any cats he could catch, that's why his hands were bloodstained....... There was a long jagged scar that ran across his face; what teeth he had were yellow and rotten; his eyes popped, and he drooled most of the time." (pg 13)

When the children asked Atticus about him, Atticus would just say to mind their own business and leave him alone.  So they had to get their information from Miss Stephanie Crawford. Supposedly, according to Ms. Crawford, Boo had been cutting articles from The Maycomb Tribune.  When his father walked by him, he stuck his scissors into his father's leg.  Then he went back to cutting out his articles. Boo was thirty-three years old then.  Boo is presented a having mental problems and kept at home because they didn't want to jail him with the Negroes and the basement of the jail was too damp.

He is kept a secret throughout the book, but the children receive little presents left in a tree trunk and it is INFERRED that they came from him. 

At the end of the book, Boo kills Mr. Ewell when he attacks the children.  The sheriff believes he was a hero for doing that but doesn't want to let the rest of the town to know because

"If it were any other man, it'd be different.  But not this man, Mr. Finch" (pg 276)

At the end of the book, the reader sees Scout take Boo, or Arthur as he is really named, by the hand and lead him out to the porch. 

"Feeling slightly unreal, I led him to the chair farthest from ATticus and Mr. Tate.  I was in deep shadow.  Boo would feel more comforatble in the dark." (pg 273).

At the end of the book, Boo has transformed from his horrible myth the children had imagined to a meek, quiet man who protected the children and saved their lives.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, what are three quotes that characterize Atticus Finch?

These quotes show that Atticus is empathetic, courageous, and principled.

When choosing quotes to represent character traits, you should look for quotes about the character or important things the character says.  These will help you support characteristics of the character’s personality.  Page numbers vary, but these are all near the end of their chapters.

Atticus is well-known for his empathy.  He cares about a black man when most people consider it beneath them.  This is why he defends Tom Robinson in the trial, because he is able to put himself in other people’s shoes.  When Scout has some trouble with her new teacher on the first day of school, Atticus explains to her that if she can learn empathy, she will get along with people better.

“First of all,” he said, “if you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you’ll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view-”

“Sir?”

“-until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” (Ch. 3, p.33)

Atticus is a good father because he sets an example for his children, but also because he listens to them.  When Scout had trouble with Miss Caroline, Atticus turned it into an important life lesson. He knew that empathy was going to be extra important for Scout during the trial.

Courage is another important trait of Atticus.  Atticus demonstrates both physical and moral courage throughout the events of the book.  He explains his definition of courage to his children.

I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do. (Ch. 11, p. 128)

Atticus is brave because he does his best to defend Tom Robinson even though he knows that there is no way a Maycomb court will acquit his client.  He does it because it is the right thing to do.  Atticus compares moral courage to facing physical danger with a gun, but Atticus does that too. He shoots the mad dog to protect the town.  Atticus also shows courage when facing the angry mob.

Finally, Atticus is principled.  That means that he has a strong moral code that he believes in and he sticks to it no matter what.  Atticus defends his principles along with his client in his closing arguments on the Tom Robinson case.

“But there is one way in this country in which all men are created equal—there is one human institution that makes a pauper the equal of a Rockefeller, the stupid man the equal of an Einstein, and the ignorant man the equal of any college president. That institution, gentlemen, is a court. … (Ch. 21, p. 234)

In a town where racism is a way of life, Atticus tries to explain to the jury and the audience that justice should be colorblind.  A case must be decided based on the facts and not an immediate conviction of a person based on color.

How is the character of Atticus presented in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird?

Harper Lee's creation of Atticus Finch has become one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in all of American fiction. Humble, honest and determined to treat everyone he meets with respect, Atticus serves as the conscience of Maycomb. He is the man that people come to for advice (or legal representation) when they have a problem, and he is one of the

"... men who are born to do our unpleasant jobs for us."

He serves as Maycomb's representative in the Alabama state legislature, running unopposed in each election. The people of Maycomb realize there is no better man to serve their town, and Atticus, a born and bred Maycombian,

... was related by blood or marriage to nearly every family in the town.

A single parent, Atticus allows his children a great degree of independence, believing they will learn life's lessons through their own experiences, and hoping that

"... Jem and Scout will come to me for their answers... I hope they trust me enough."

As an attorney, Atticus has no peers. Among real-life lawyers,

     "Atticus has become something of a folk hero in legal circles and is treated almost as if he were an actual person."
     "No real-life lawyer has done more for the self-image or public perception of the legal profession..."

His portrayal by Gregory Peck (who won the Oscar for Best Actor) in the film version of the novel earned Atticus the distinction of being named the #1 "greatest hero in American film" by the American Film Institute.

How is Atticus presented in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee?

Harper Lee presents Atticus as a complex man who cares about people and wants to think the best of them.

Atticus is an older man raising his young daughter and son on his own in the Southern town of Maycomb, Alabama during the Great Depression.  I guess that would make anyone a philosopher!

Atticus has some unusual views on parenting.  His children call him Atticus instead of Dad or Father (although they do call him sir).  He does use corporal punishment, but constantly threatens to whip his children.  He does not teach them that they are better than others.  He does not want them to feel superior, even though they come from an old respectable family.

Atticus is of strong moral character.  He has a dense sense of personal responsibility, and the most important thing to him is raising his children this way.  He tells his children that God is “loving folks like you love yourself” (Chapter 5).  He encourages empathy in his children.

As Atticus had once advised me to do, I tried to climb into Jem’s skin and walk around in it. (chapter 7)

The entire town seems to look up to Atticus.  He proves his bravery when he shoots the rabid dog,  and the lynchmob.  Miss Maudie says:

“If Atticus Finch drank until he was drunk he wouldn’t be as hard as some men are at their best.” (chapter 5)

Atticus’s morals extend to him defending a black man even when it is very unpopular.  Atticus respect everyone, and is clearly not racist.  He also believes in justice.  When Scout asks Atticus why he chooses to defend Tom Robinson, he answers that he couldn’t live with himself if he didn’t.

“The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this county in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again.” (chapter 9)

So he takes a case he knows he is going to use, and does his best.  This shows that Atticus is strong as well as moral.

How are Atticus and Scout presented in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Each of these characters is complex, just like individuals are in real life. As a result, the way they are represented is multi-faceted.

Scout is presented as innocent, rowdy, intelligent, insensitive to some things and overly sensitive to others, ignorant (meaning she literally does not know certain things due to her age), moral, precocious, and genuine. Because she is only six when the book begins, she has a lot of room for growth as the story progresses. Her interactions with some people are different than others, so she is presented in different ways according to those interactions and circumstances. For example, she is a tomboy and her "rowdy" side is often seen in the chapters of the book where she is playing with Jem and Dill, or when she is getting into scraps with children at school or with her cousin Frances. 

Atticus is presented in an overwhelmingly positive light in the novel. He is literally considered one of best fictional characters in literature in terms of how "good" he is in nature. He is presented as being moral, fair, respectful, intelligent, thoughtful, wise (different than intelligent), careful, honest, genuine, caring, tolerant, and loving. Atticus plays a smaller role in the beginning of the novel because so much of it focuses on Scout, Jem, and Dill. However, once the Tom Robinson case comes into full play, we learn a lot more about Atticus. For example, each of the traits listed above can be seen as he defends Tom in front of a town eager to convict him. 

How is Atticus portrayed in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Atticus is shown to the reader through the eyes of Scout, his feisty daughter, as a model human being. Over the course of the novel, Scout develops a more and more mature appreciation of her father's exemplary character.

Scout, writing as an adult looking back on her childhood, portrays Atticus, first and foremost, as a man of integrity. It is very clear that he mounts a true defense of Tom Robinson because it is the right thing to do: as far as he is concerned, he would not be able to look his children in the eye or hold his head up in the community if he did not do the best possible job to defend Tom. This puts him at odds with the white community of Maycomb, which expects a black man who has been accused of rape by a white to be found guilty, but Atticus does not care. He puts his integrity ahead of pleasing others.

Scout also portrays Atticus as a generous and good-hearted man who loves his neighbors and sees the good in them despite their flaws, a lesson he tries to pass on to Scout. For example, although Mrs. Dubose is a sharp-tongued woman who constantly insults the children and Atticus, he insists that the children read to her as she battles her morphine addiction. He does not view her as difficult person as much as a person of rare courage in facing and defeating an addiction before she dies.

Atticus is a person of courage, such as when he kills a rabid dog. He is, too, a modest man who refuses to brag about or take credit for God-given gifts like his ability at sharp shooting.

Atticus loves his children and is a caring father who teaches them important lessons about integrity, generosity, courage, and modesty.