Atticus Finch Analysis

Joan of Arc states, “One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.” Born in France in 1412, Joan heard voices as a teenager, supposedly sent to her from God, giving her an assignment to save France from its enemies and assist Charles in becoming king. Eventually, she led multiple attacks against France’s enemies, causing them to retreat. After the victory, Charles VII became king and ordered her to defend a town, Compiegne from an attack. Charges against her included witchcraft and dressing like a man and eventually she was sentenced to death. Both Joan of Arc and Atticus believe that integrity is one of the most important
While Atticus is a lawyer for the defendant, Tom Robinson, he was opposing Mayella Ewell and her father, Bob Ewell. During court, Atticus interrogates both Bob Ewell and his daughter, gaining information to help prove his case. As Mr. Finch questions Mayella Ewell, he acknowledges her as Miss Mayella, demonstrating his politeness. However, Mayella thinks that Atticus is mocking her by referring to her as Miss Mayella; at this point, Judge Taylor explains, “Mr. Finch is always courteous to everybody” (Lee 243). Therefore, Atticus treats all of the witnesses, including ones he is opposing, equally. Although the jury convicts Tom Robinson, Maycomb County knows the truth about the case: Bob Ewell raped his daughter. Consequently, the exposure of the truth left Bob Ewell to feel humiliated. A few days after the completion of the trial, Atticus encounters Bob Ewell while exiting the post office. Additionally, Bob Ewell proceeds to threaten Atticus, spit on him, and curse. After the ironic occurrence, Atticus discusses Bob Ewell’s actions with Jem and Scout. During their conversation, Atticus states to Jem, “See if you can stand in Bob Ewell’s shoes a minute” (Lee 292). At this moment, the reader understands how Atticus is able to remain calm during such events. For example, throughout the event Atticus does not return any of the aggressive
One night, Aunt Alexandra advises Atticus to fire Calpurnia. Calpurnia works for Atticus helping to clean, cook, and take care of Jem and Scout. Since Calpurnia has been around for as long as the children can remember, she is like family to Jem, Scout, and Atticus. Therefore, Atticus refuses to fire Calpurnia, stating, “Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to” (Lee 182). As Calpurnia is an individual Atticus cares for, he has trust in her and her loyalty to their family. Additionally, he recognizes the importance of her presence on the children and does not wish for her to leave as Aunt Alexandra suggests. On the other hand, numerous citizens of Maycomb County have Negro people that work for them. Despite being around them frequently, most of those individuals do not take the time to become acquainted with them, simply due to the color of their skin. Moreover, a couple weeks after Tom Robinson is convicted, he attempts to escape the prison camp he is kept in by climbing over the fence. However, Tom is shot seventeen times, an excessive amount, and dies. Later that day, Atticus visits the Robinson’s house to tell Tom’s wife the news. At the house, he notices their little girl struggling to walk down the front stairs so he offers her his finger and “eased her down the steps” (Lee