How Is Atticus Finch Sympathetic

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a novel that takes readers to the origins of human behaviour by expressing the important aspects of mankind through the character traits of the one and only--Atticus Finch. Without question, he is an excellent role model to humans, whether old or young, man or woman, black or white. Atticus is fair as he puts his faith in justice, treats everyone justly, and never commits acts of hypocrisy. Atticus is empathetic because of the kindness he portrays towards others, his ability to put himself in someone else’s shoes, and his talent in teaching people to examine the goodness in others. Atticus is extremely honest due to the fact that he is highly trustworthy, he is someone who is simply blunt when speaking

He believes firmly in justice, treats everyone equally, and does not do anything hypocritically. Atticus proves his firm belief in justice by stating, “I'm no idealist to believe firmly in the integrity of our courts and in the jury system--that is no ideal to me, it is a living, working reality. Gentlemen, a court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sounds as the men who make it. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision, and restore this defendant to his family.” (Lee 274). This quotation proves that Atticus Finch believes in--and tries to do-- justice to any man, regardless of the fact he is white and the person he is defending is a man of colour. He says he does not put faith in the integrity of the jury system because he knows they are unfair, while he, Atticus, is fair. Atticus treats everyone equally, which is a major sign of fairness within a human. Miss Maudie, a neighbour of the Finches states, “Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets.” (Lee 61). This quotation is clear evidence that Atticus treats everyone equally whether he is on the streets, at home, or in the courtroom. He does not commit partially with anyone, nor does he discriminate. He treats everyone with fairness, and does not choose how he wants to treat people differently. He treats everyone the same. Atticus does not act

He is kind to people, understanding of people, and teaches people to see the goodness in others. An example of Atticus being kind is when Miss Maudie states, “...if Atticus Finch drank until he was drunk, he wouldn’t be as hard as some men at their best.” (Lee 60). This quotation proves that Atticus is so polite that even if he was drunk, he would still be kinder than most men. Atticus has a reputation for being kind in the Maycomb county and Miss Maudie agrees that he will be kind even if he drinks which shows his empathy for others. Atticus is very understanding of others. He respects his neighbours which shows his compassion for them. For example, when Jem and Scout plan to give Boo Radley a message, Atticus states to Jem, “...I’m going to tell you something and tell you one time; stop tormenting that man.” (Lee 65). This statement shows that Atticus cares and has respect for his neighbours. He understands that Boo Radley has a right to stay in his home if he wishes to and he should not be disturbed. Atticus is understanding of Boo even though he rarely sees him, which brings out his empathy. Atticus Finch sees—and teaches people to see—the goodness in others. Despite the fact that Mrs Dubose does not agree with his views and the fact that she insults him and his children, Atticus does not cease to see the goodness in her. When Mrs Dubose passes away, Atticus says to Jem, “...I wanted you