The Importance Of Courage In To Kill A Mockingbird By Harper Lee

In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Lee wants readers to realize that while courage can show in obvious ways, small acts of courage are equally important. For example, Jem spilling all of their secrets was a huge act of courage. Scout narrates, “He began pouring out our secrets right and left in total disregard for my safety if not for his own, omitting nothing, knot-hole, pants, and all” (96). This is such a huge act of courage for Jem because he and Scout have kept these things secret for so long, and both could end up in a lot of trouble. Atticus needs to know, however, and it had been a long, hard night for Jem; there’s so much pressure that Jem can’t hold it in anymore. For another example, Scout is courageous to speak up for Walter
Cunningham when he’s too timid to speak up for himself. Scout tells Miss Caroline, “You’re shamin’ him… Walter hasn’t got a quarter at home to bring you, and you can’t use any stovewood” (28). Scout has a good understanding of Walter’s situation, but Miss Caroline is much more ignorant. Miss Caroline won’t let up on Walter, so Scout uses her courage to explain. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee shows how courage often shows in large acts, but can come in small packages as well. Courage, whether big or small, is a hugely important trait to possess.