Why Is Atticus Important In To Kill A Mockingbird

Admirability is a quality that many strive to acquire, yet, most fail to achieve. Admirability is the ability to be admired or respected by others, even if they don’t necessarily agree with one’s point of view. In the classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, a loving father named Atticus, earns respect from his children, Jem and Scout, and almost his entire community. Wisdom, compassion, and responsibility are just a few things that make Atticus an easily likable character. To begin with, Atticus gives great words of wisdom to Jem and Scout. One of Atticus’ s best words of wisdom, is given Scout. Scout comes home complaining about her new teacher, Miss Caroline. She explains to Atticus the chaos that was inflicted that day. Atticus, then gives some words of advice, saying, “ ‘You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view; until you climb into his skin and walk around in it’ ”(Lee 39). It is evident that Atticus is a man of wisdom who teaches his children life lessons and morals. Atticus advice to Scout, helped her change her point of view of Miss Caroline’s

One example that demonstrates Atticus’s responsibility is when he explains to Jem and Scout that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird. In chapter ten, Atticus gives Jem and Scout some air-rifles. Atticus then explains to them, “ ‘I’d rather you shot at tin cans in the backyard, but I know you’ll go after birds. Shoot all the bluejays you want, is you can hit’ em, but remember it’s to kill a mockingbird.’ ” (Lee 119). Later, Scout finds out that the only thing mockingbirds do is make beautiful music and should never be punished for it. It is evident that Atticus is a responsible father because instead of letting Jem and Scout hurt innocent creatures; he was responsible and strictly told them what not to do. Atticus’s responsibility is a characteristic that makes him an admired