Essay On Atticus Integrity In To Kill A Mockingbird

Despite race discrimination around the world, there are still people who overcome and persevere through these challenges - often at great risk to themselves. During the 1930s, in the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, a small town called Maycomb held a trial against an innocent African American man accused of raping a Caucasian woman. The reader experiences life in Maycomb through the eyes of ten year old girl name Jean-Louise Finch, Scout. In this case, Atticus Finch, Scout’s father, was assigned to be the lawyer for the accused, Tom Robinson. However, Atticus has integrity and tries his best for Tom even if his own life is at risk. It makes sense for Atticus to take a stand to defend Tom Robinson because that was who Atticus was,

For example, in chapter 18, Judge Taylor said, “Mr. Finch is courteous to everyone.” (pg. 182). When Judge Taylor uses the word ‘courteous’ to describe Atticus, he is acknowledging the fact that Atticus is a respectful and kind to Mayella even if it was unnecessary. With that amount of respect and integrity, standing up for Tom Robinson makes sense. In chapter 10, Atticus told Jem and Scout, “Shoot all the bluejays you want if you hit’em, but remember its a sin to kill a mockingbird.” (pg.90). Atticus believes that killing a mockingbird or an innocent man for no reason is disobeying the Golden Rule. Therefore, when Atticus stood up Tom Robinson during the trial, he was treating Tom with the same respect as he has treated Mayella with. For instance, in chapter 11 Atticus explained to his children, “I wanted you to see what real courage is, not a man with a gun… it’s when you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway.” (pg. 112). Atticus believes that real courage is trying again after you lost, not winning by the simple way or a gunshot. Atticus probably knew that the jury will say that Tom is guilty. Yet Atticus has integrity and tries his best for Tom despite the