Atticus Finch, the Very Definition of a Man
In To Kill a Mockingbird, a strong character that shows envious personality traits is none other than Atticus Finch. Atticus is generally seen as a character that is hard-working, smart, and strict. However, personality wise he is much more than that.
First of all, a good quality trait he processes is conscientiousness. He often shows a great amount of self-discipline and awareness of his responsibilities. He is a person with good morals who doesn’t judge, belittles, or insults people because of their skin color. In the town of Macomb being a lawyer, at the time wasn’t considered as prestigious in comparison to other jobs in town. This played a part on why he was often taken for granted by Scout. In the beginning she wished he was more like the rest of her classmates’ fathers. In reality this was very ironic since most of them were racist and judgmental (opposite of who Atticus really was). Ch.10 Pg.89 “Our father didn’t do anything. He worked at an office, not a drugstore. Atticus did not drive a dump truck for the county, he was not the sheriff, he did not farm, work in a garage, or do anything that could possibly arouse the admiration of anyone.
Secondly, another positive quality trait he processes is being good-natured. When it comes to his children, they are the most important thing to him, and he makes sure they are good, polite, and responsible. This explains his current strictness towards them, he mostly only does that though because he wants them to be successful in life. Also, he treats his helper Calpurnia with much respect and gratefulness who happens to be an African American woman. Another way he demonstrated his unique quality trait was when he took over Tom Robinsons case. Since he was a black man accused of a very serious crime his case was neglected by many. Atticus however believed in his innocence and showed compassion and empathy towards him. Even with all the criticism and insults he faced by defending him. He didn’t give up and fought as hard as he could to demonstrate Tom’s innocence. Ch. 17 Pg. 177 “I’ll repeat the question,” said Atticus. “Can you read and write?”
Lastly, Atticus processes intelligence. This trait is shown among various chapters throughout the book. A very good example of this was when he was defending Tom Robinson in court. He was able to make connections between the statements made by the Ewells to solve the case. Another example of his intelligence was when Bob Ewell insulted him and spit on his face outside the post office. He didn’t let that get in his head and instead of fighting him, he simply ignored him and walked away from the problem. Ch. 23 Pg. 217 “I wish Bob Ewell wouldn’t chew tobacco,” was all Atticus said about it.
Atticus Finch is the very definition of a man, not only physically but mentally. He unlike many others is able to tell right from wrong, fights for what he believes in, and most importantly respects people for who they are and makes sure his family is always good no matter what. This is why his character will forever be viewed by many as an exemplary human being.
