Atticus Finch Father, Attorney, Hero

Background Facts Grew up on Finch’s Landing Was taught at home by his father Attended Law School Represented his county in State Legislature

Other pertinent information Widower Father to Scout and Jem Received his first gun when he was 13

At the time of the story… The town’s most revered lawyer Appointed by Judge Taylor to represent Tom Robinson Faced criticism, threats, and hatred for defending Tom Robinson with passion.

Atticus’ Convictions Does not prejudge people Believes in always being honest. Encourages his children to avoid conflict Possesses hidden courage

Does not prejudge people Atticus tells Scout that before judging another person one should “climb into their skin and walk around in it.”

Believes in Honesty He faces a moral dilemma when faced with the knowledge that Boo Radley killed Bob Ewell, not Jem. He is torn between protecting Boo or giving the town the truth about what happened.

Encourages avoiding conflict Atticus tells Scout not to engage in fights when other children at school call him names. Atticus tells the children to stay away from Mrs. Dubose and the Radley place. Atticus tells the children that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because it merely sings and does nothing to threaten anyone.

Possesses hidden courage Atticus shoots a rabid dog that is threatening the neighborhood. Before that the children think he cannot shoot. The children learn from the townspeople that Atticus is an excellent marksman. Atticus defends Tom Robinson with passion even though it makes him unpopular.

Final observations Atticus Finch is a man of high-intellect with moral convictions and a deep understanding of human nature. Atticus Finch is committed to his children and the betterment of society. Atticus is not afraid to go against what is popular for the sake of justice.