To Kill a Mockingbird-Literary Analysis

To Kill a Mockingbird-Literary Analysis

"Courage is not a man with a gun in his hand. It's knowing you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do." (112) Atticus gives his definition of courage in this passage while speaking to the children about the nature of Mrs. Dubose’ death. There are several underlying themes in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. The theme of courage throughout this book is displayed through the characters of Jem Finch, Boo Radley, and Atticus Finch.
A prominent and developing character, Jem Finch, shows through his actions that he values courage. The night Atticus leaves for town in the car, Jem is left with an uneasy feeling. The fact that Jem is prepared to follow his father into an uncertain situation alone or otherwise clearly shows his courage. This passage suggests Jem realizes that the situation Atticus is being pulled into is serious, and no matter for children. He takes the step to follow his father in order to prove his maturity and courage. “ ‘I’m goin’ downtown for awhile.’ He was changing his pants. ‘Why? Its almost ten o’clock.’ He knew, he was going anyway.’” (149)
Boo Radley exhibits courage by knowing when and what not to get involved in. Boo had not been seen outside his house for longer than the narrator has been alive. For whatever the reason, Boo courageously decided to leave the world and managed to eradicate the affect the world may have had on him or the damage he may have caused to the people around him. But Boo shows us his real courage when the children are unexpectedly rescued from danger. When he sees Bob Ewell attacking Jem and Scout, he leaps into action and defends them, in the end saving their lives. This is the ultimate way anyone can show courage, offering their own life to let someone who they do not even know live. If Boo had faltered the slightest bit, it may have been Mr. Ewell who killed him and Jem and Scout as well. Jem explains Boo’s courage. "He...

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