Alec Graham
Period: 4
Everyone needs a role model in life, someone to teach them morals and lessons. In To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch just happens to be the perfect role model for not only his own children but the entire Maycomb County. He sets examples not only as lawyer, but as a father and teaches his children the necessary morals to function as model citizens in society. Atticus was proven as a fantastic lawyer throughout the book, and everyone in the county could attest to it. “Well he can make somebody’s will so airtight can’t nobody meddle with it,” Miss Maudie told Jem and Scout. (Pg. 95) People from all around the county would come to Atticus to write their Last Will and Testament. This points to the respect that Atticus has and the almost father figure that he is to many people around Maycomb. In addition Atticus is a role model to society, because he did the right thing in the Tom Robinson case. He knew Tom was innocent, however he knew it would be very controversial to represent a black man. Even though representing Tom went against what was acceptable in society, he did it anyway and stood up for his morals and beliefs. This served as a lesson to both his kids and society. Atticus was a great role model for his children and positively influenced them over the course of the book. He treats his children like normal human-beings and because of this, Jem and Scout are very well grounded. He teaches his kids how to read and stresses the importance of school and their education. “If you’ll concede the necessity of going to school, we’ll go on reading every night just as we always have.” (Pg. 31) Even though Scout’s teacher tells him not to teach her to read, he not only stands up for what he believes in, he is able to use his understanding of Scout and how she functions and use that to teach her the importance of school and a good education. Atticus is a great parent and lawyer. He is able to teach his children the skills and behaviors to succeed, all while balancing a successful career and serve as a role model to society. By being an honest man and following his heart, Atticus Finch is a model citizen.
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