Edmund Ingle
Ms. Oosterink
English 9
24 May 2023
Courage in To Kill a Mockingbird
“I am confident that you gentlemen will receive without passion the evidence that you have heard,” said Atticus Finch, addressing the jury, “come to a decision, and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty” (233). When he spoke these words, he wasn’t only talking to the jury. He was speaking to everyone, bringing to attention the need for people to do what is right. To Kill a Mockingbird is a fictional novel that took place in the 1930’s, a time when racism was more common and more dangerous. When Atticus takes the case of a black man, it is unlikely that his client is going to have a fair trial. To Kill a Mockingbird hits on many
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We see this when Scout is confronted at school. A classmate tells her, “My folks said your daddy was a disgrace” (87). Atticus’s courage is best seen when he tells Scout, “You might hear some ugly talk about it at school, but do one thing for me, if you will: you just hold your head high and keep those fists down” (87). This quotation suggests that Atticus is not easily influenced by what others think, but will do what he believes is right no matter what the cost. Therefore, Atticus demonstrates the theme of courage in To Kill a …show more content…
One example of this is when King Theoden and his people are trapped at Helm’s Deep. The fortress has been breached, and King Theoden is overwhelmed with death and the reckless hate of their enemies. Aragorn says, “Ride out with me! Ride out and meet them.” Theoden says, “For death and glory.” Aragon counters, “For your people.” Theoden responds, “Yes.” And they prepare to ride out. This demonstrates Lee’s theme because it gives a picture of what real courage is. Courage is when you know that you are going to fail, and that that failure could cost you your life, but you try anyway. Therefore, Lee’s theme may be seen as