Real Courage Whenever in ancient times or the modern epoch, people who own great courage are always worshiped by others or held in high esteem. People generally suppose that extraordinary men who are capable of defeating enemies fearlessly on the battlefield or achieving several achievements possess real courage. The ancient Greek Spartan warriors who were never fearful of fighting and war, or the great Alexander who coquetted Eurasia are two such common symbols of courage and bravery. However, real courage means more than physical fearlessness, instead, it also includes moral courage. A well-known word said by Mark Twain is, “It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world and moral courage so rare” (“Mark Twain Quotes”). …show more content…
In a Southern town, Maycomb, where the prejudice against the coloreds is deeply rooted in the culture, the rumor that a black man raped a white woman is widespread in the town and eventually induces a lawsuit even though the whole event is not true. Atticus, however, who is full of courage, still pleads for innocent Tom Robinson, while he already acknowledged full well that his assistance is going to fail. That is because, in Atticus's understanding, courage implies “when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what” (Lee 86). He bravely attempts the case which bounds to fail and stands on the opposite side of the folks and society. Moreover, he firmly believes in Tom and does not terrify affecting Finch Family’s reputation, begetting folks’ hatred, or Ewell Bob's immoral revenge. He handles this affair fairly and without any prejudice to Tom. The reasons are mere that he believes his decision is justified. Atticus employs his courage to complete a lawyer’s obligation, defend citizens' legal rights and honor the laws. “You rarely win, but sometimes you do” (Lee 86). Tom and Atticus lost the lawsuit, but readers know that black people truly appreciate Atticus. Atticus wins in some ways, and that is genuine courage--utilizing the actual courage to clear Tom Robinson’s name to defend