This quote takes place after Atticus has shot a rabid dog that was threatening his children and the neighborhood. Miss Maudie tells Jem and Scout that Atticus was “the deadest shot in Maycomb County in his time,” and was called “Ol’ One-Shot.” Jem and Scout are very surprised. The theme raised by this section is modesty. Just because you have a special ability does not mean that you should use it unnecessarily. By not using his unfair advantage, Miss Maudie figures Atticus is “civilized in his heart.” Another “unfair advantage” throughout the book is skin color. Mayella Ewell is held blameless because she is white. Tom Robinson does not have that advantage. He is killed because he is