Scout, in Chapter 10 of To Kill a Mockingbird , makes the observation that "Atticus can't do anything." Miss Maudie proceeds to enlighten Scout on some of her father's achievements. She explains to Scout that she may be surprised about what Atticus can do. For one thing, he can...
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.
"make somebody's will so airtight can't anybody meddle with it." Scout is not impressed. Miss Maudie then compliments his checker-playing skills and his ability to play a Jew's harp. The latter accomplishment seems to make Scout even more disappointed in Atticus.
Later in the chapter, Scout and Jem notice that something is wrong with Tim Johnson, a dog that belongs to a man in Maycomb County. Sheriff Tate and Atticus arrive on the scene and agree that the dog needs to be killed. Sheriff Tate hands the rifle to Atticus and he aims, fires, and hits his target. Miss Maudie then says to Atticus, "I saw that, One-Shot Finch." She then tells Jem and Scout that "Atticus Finch was the deadest shot in Maycomb County in his time." Scout, excited that her father has this talent, looks forward to telling the kids at school. However, Jem seems to understand why Atticus didn't share this with them and advises her to keep it to herself.