Atticus Finch Patient

In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, we are introduced to many unique characters. One of which is Atticus Finch; a patient man who always cares. In the story, Atticus is talking to Uncle Jack on the topic of answering a child’s question. He gives Jack these words of advice, “ ‘Bad language is a stage all children go through, and it dies with time when they learn they’re not attracting attention with it.’ (pg. 116)” I believe Atticus is definitely doing the right thing by letting Scout discover for herself what her cursing will lead to. Atticus, without a doubt, has to be patient with young Scout as she continues to exercise these words. I believe that Atticus also has to be accepting towards Scout when she practices speaking
with bad language. I think Atticus understands what Scout is going through, for he was once a child as well. He knows to wait it out, rather than to tear into her about it. In the quote when Atticus says, “…it dies with time…” well, how long are we talking about? We don’t know, however, Atticus is definitely one who is ready and willing to wait until the end.
In addition, we see that Atticus is patient when Miss Stephanie and Miss Rachel wildly wave Dill, Scout, and Jem over.
Scout recalls this, “It was Miss Stephanie’s pleasure to tell us this: this morning Mr. Bob Ewell stopped Atticus on the post office corner, spat in his face, and told him he’d get him if it took the rest of his life. ‘I wish Bob Ewell wouldn’t chew tobacco,’ was all Atticus said about it. (pg.290&291)” It takes someone with a very strong character to peacefully stand there while somebody verbally abuses you. You definitely have to be patient with that person to not lose your temper, which could very well turn into a brawl. Atticus knows not to get any more involved with Bob Ewell, which requires being very patient as he lashes all of his built up anger out on him. Atticus could have gotten upset with Mr. Ewell, but his genuinely patient and caring character said otherwise. I think Atticus, when consulted by his children regarding the incident, made it humorous to protect them from any fear they could have experienced. This makes Atticus very loving and protective, which makes me personally respect him more as a
father.
Finally, when Aunt Alexandra informs Atticus that they don’t need Calpurnia now that she has come to stay with them, Scout overhears Atticus respond, “Atticus’s voice was even: ‘Alexandra, Calpurnia’s not leaving this house until she wants to.
You may think otherwise, but I couldn’t have got along without her all these years. She’s a faithful member of this family and you’ll simply have to accept things the way they are. Besides, sister, I don’t want you working your head off for us – you’ve no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did.’ (pg. 182&183)” When Atticus hears what Aunt Alexandra has to say, he doesn’t go and blow his top. Instead, he very caringly explains to her that they do, in fact, still need Cal. Even though Atticus doesn’t even remotely agree with Aunt Alexandra, he remains the very patient and calm man he is and is very gentle with Aunt Alexandra. Atticus could very well have gotten furious, not elucidated, or just flat out ignored her. Despite Aunt Alexandra’s constant badgering, Atticus held his ground. Atticus has a very special gift; he can be firm without being mean or rude. He used this technique with Aunt Alexandra, all the while being very patient and kind.
In conclusion, Atticus is a very patient man. He is constantly caring and loves to make people feel worthy. Atticus is an excellent role model and even better father for Jem and Scout. Atticus’s personality never ceases to amaze me, which makes me personally respect
him as a man.