Thesis: The well known and award winning novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee should continue to stay on the freshman reading list for years to come because of Atticus Finch’s wise lessons about courage, empathy, and equality do not only impact his kids, but many readers can learn and apply them everyday life as well. One of the most memorable lessons taught by Atticus is about courage, where he explains that courage is presented through thoughtful actions and perseverance, not with objects, such as weapons. One example of this is when Atticus’ had shot the rabid hound in chapter ten. When an ill and dangerous dog was found wandering the streets of Maycomb, someone had to shoot it. Heck Tate, the sheriff, was going to kill the dog, however, he was not as accurate as Atticus or “ One shot Finch” (Lee 128). He hesitated to take the weapon, but to protect the neighborhood, he killed the animal. The siblings were surprised due to the fact that Atticus could shoot a shotgun effortlessly. Jem considered this act at a gentlemanly gesture. He was so astonished and confused because his father kept his ‘talent’ hidden. Later, Mrs. Maudie explained that Atticus is not prideful of his talents, but is “civilized in his heart”(130). This shows that weaponry and talent would not be the first words Atticus would think when defining courage when explaining his kids the real definition of it. Another example that talks about courage involves the Finch’s old and ill tempered