Atticus Wisdom In To Kill A Mockingbird

As the hero of the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch has an unorthodox outlook on racism. He says, “As you grow older, you’ll see white men cheat black men every day 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.” (252). This outlook allows him to approach the obstacles that come with a trial of a black man vs a white woman. Harper Lee, the author of the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, worked on revisions for 2.5 years on the novel before it was published in 1960. Many events and characteristics in the novel are real memories experienced by Harper Lee. Scout Finch’s character

An example of his wisdom is shown when he is talking to Jem about white juries. In Maycomb, racism is a normality. Atticus is one of the few people that have a different view points on how people should be treated. Especially in the courts. Atticus says, “The one place where a white man ought to get a square deal is in the courtroom, be he any color of the rainbow” (252). Atticus is beyond and wise in his belief systems. He is not so small-minded as some people in his town. He does not attempt to change the view on racism. He knows his morals, but does not force them on everyone else, another wise action. He does his best to get people to not let racism cloud their judgments in the courts. To let that be the one place where everyone is treated equal. He shows wisdom in the way he thinks and the way he persuades the courts to give Tom a fair trial. Atticus does not only exhibit wisdom in the courtroom but also at home with Jem and Scout. Atticus raises Jem and Scout a little differently than most in Maycomb. Definitely in a way that is disliked by others such as Aunt Alexandria. Atticus says, “Children are children, but they can spot an evasion quicker than adults, and evasion simply muddles ‘em” (99). Atticus’s different parenting techniques are due to his omniscient knowledge and wisdom of children’s thoughts and actions. This allows him to raise his kids in a way he seems best fit. They are raised almost in a way that mentally prepares them for their future life and surviving life through the time of the trial. In a way to teach them to understand people and be wise themselves. Atticus also shows great wisdom by teaching Scout about the concept of empathy. Atticus is very wise in his effort of teaching Scout the idea of empathy as she makes her way through her journey as enforced by the vents she must deal with in according to the case. He does this in many ways such as talking about other people’s