In Harper Lee’s novel, To Kill A Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a model of morality. This dramatic coming-of-age story about a young girl growing up in the segregated South of the 1930’s demonstrates the effects of prejudice on society and how individuals can either rise above it or below it. In the small town of Maycomb the respected Finch family maintain a relatively peaceful life until Atticus is called on to defend Tom Robinson, a black man accused of assaulting a white girl. By taking the case Atticus not only puts his life in danger, but the lives of his children as well. Despite the chaos, Atticus Finch is a hero; he teaches his family true maturity through his integrity, understanding of prejudice, and caring for others.
As a man of morals, Atticus consistently demonstrates integrity, a truly heroic trait. When Scout asks her father why he is defending Tom Robinson when he will be criticized he explains, “ ‘For a number of reasons. The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this country in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again’ ” (86; ch.9). Atticus feels that turning down the case would go against his morals. Refusing it might stop the anger of others but he would feel ashamed of himself. The day after Atticus loses Robinson’s trial, the Finch’s neighbor, Miss Maudie, invites the children to her house. She understands that Jem is upset and tells him, “ ‘I simply want to tell you that there are some men in this world who were born to do our unpleasant jobs for us. Your father’s one of them’ ” (246; ch.22). Miss Maudie wants Jem to know that he should still be proud of his father, because Atticus was brave enough to do what many others would not. Atticus felt morally obligated to take the case, no matter the risk.
Maycomb is also plagued by prejudiced assumptions that go beyond skin color. Atticus understands the origins of prejudice and is able to rise above it. After her...