Illustration of a bird perched on a scale of justice

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

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Student Question

What does Miss Maudie mean in her statement about Atticus putting down his gun in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Quick answer:

Miss Maudie refers to Atticus's decision to stop using his exceptional shooting skills, symbolizing his moral integrity. Known as "Ol' One Shot" for his marksmanship, Atticus chooses not to exploit this power, reflecting his belief in fairness and justice. He only resorts to using a gun when absolutely necessary, as demonstrated when he shoots the rabid dog, Tim Johnson, highlighting his preference for resolving issues through other means.

Expert Answers

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Miss Maudie is referring to Atticus's skill with a rifle. For many years, he's had a reputation as a crack shot, earning the nickname "Ol' One Shot." But because Atticus is such a modest man, he never told his children about it. However, Atticus is reluctantly forced to display his special skill when he's called upon to shoot dead the rabid dog Tim Johnson.

Miss Maudie is offering a theory as to why Atticus put his gun down all those years ago. She thinks that Atticus realized that being such a skilled marksman gave him a terrible power over living things, an unfair advantage over them. If he wanted to, he could kill just about anything. But he's chosen not to; he'll only get out his gun if he really must, as in the case of Tim Johnson.

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