IndexIntroductionBody ParagraphsCounterargumentsConclusionReferencesIntroductionAtticus Finch, the protagonist of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," is a complex and dynamic character who undergoes significant development over the course of of history. As a lawyer in a small, racist Southern town in the 1930s, Atticus is initially portrayed as a stoic, reserved figure, but as the novel progresses, he emerges as a champion of justice, empathy, and moral integrity. This essay will examine Atticus's transformation from a distant father figure to a moral compass for his children and community, exploring the various factors that contribute to his dynamic character. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Body Paragraphs At the beginning of the novel, Atticus is described as a distant and detached father towards his two children, Jem and Scout. He is often preoccupied with his work and struggles to connect with his children on an emotional level. However, as the story unfolds, Atticus begins to open up and share his values and beliefs with his children, eventually becoming a powerful role model and source of guidance. For example, when Atticus decides to defend Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape, he teaches his children the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. One of the most significant aspects of Atticus' character dynamic is his unwavering commitment to justice. Despite intense pressure from the community to drop the Tom Robinson case, Atticus remains steadfast in his belief in equal treatment before the law. This commitment is further demonstrated when Atticus agrees to defend a group of unpopular clients, despite knowing that it will damage his reputation. As Atticus tells Scout, "This case, the Tom Robinson case, is something that touches the core of a man's conscience - Scout, I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man" (Lee , 1960, p. 77). In addition to his role as a champion of justice, Atticus also serves as a moral compass for his children and community. Throughout the novel, Atticus teaches his children important lessons about empathy, compassion, and the importance of treating others with respect. For example, when Scout becomes angry after being told to befriend a classmate who is shunned by the other children, Atticus encourages her to try to understand the girl's point of view, saying, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view." seen…until you get under his skin and walk around in it" (Lee, 1960, p. 36). Counterarguments A potential counterargument is that Atticus's character is not truly dynamic, but rather static and one-dimensional. Critics might argue that Atticus is simply a paragon of virtue who does not undergo any significant change over the course of the novel. However, this argument fails to take into account the numerous instances in which Atticus demonstrates growth and development, such as his deepening relationship with his children and his evolving understanding of the complexities of racism. Another potential counterargument is that Atticus's character is actually problematic, as he has been criticized for perpetuating the "white savior" cliché is a white man coming to the aid of a marginalized black character, this criticism overlooks the larger context of the novel and the historical period in which it is set. Atticus's actions are not depicted as heroic simply because he is white, but rather because he is.
tags