Atticus Finch Character Analysis Essay Sample

In Harper Lee’s Southern gothic novel To Kill a Mockingbird set in the 1930s, many individual characters are depicted in the novel. However, the personality of Atticus Finch, who is Scout’s wise and full of courage father, is sure to catch the eye. Atticus is introduced right away, ending a fight between his two children, Scout and Jem. Atticus exhibits his educated yet mettle personality for all to see.

Initially, we are introduced to a clever man throughout the novel, Atticus. We see an example of Atticus’s educated behavior when he discusses with Scout on why he decides to defend a black man, Tom Robinson.“‘This time we aren’t fighting the Yankees, we’re fighting our friends. But remember this, no matter how bitter things get, they’re still our friends and this is still our home’” (Lee 101). Another instance of Atticus’s soundness is when he is discussing what to shoot with their air rifles, “‘ Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit’ ‘em, but remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird”’(Lee 119). The mockingbird in this instance relates to the inequality going on in this time period the mockingbird, described almost as harmless, is a perfect example of the trial of Tom Robinson, which using the mockingbird hints at Atticus’s cleverness. Atticus’s wisdom is spread throughout the story but the reader learns another important personality trait of Atticus.

Throughout the novel we see Atticus’s act in a daring way to others. Atticus mentions to scout in chapter 11 on what he thinks courage is. “‘… real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do.’” (Lee 149) Later Atticus is known to keep trying in any case he gets as a lawyer. Another instance of Atticus showing determination is when he is discussing with Scout on whether there’s a chance at winning the case or not. “‘Simply because we were like 100 years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win’” (Lee 101) Atticus speaks in this manner because he is talking to his child, but he treats his child not as a child but his equal and that she must in fact understand how society works. The fearlessness of Atticus leads to the liking of him throughout town.    

Throughout the novel Atticus Finch appears to have an intelligent and gallant nature. Atticus shares his knowledge as well as use it. He also exhibits fearlessness in the face of his enemies. Atticus’s personality is sure to rub off on his children and others. Additionally, a true to life character, like Atticus, who displays wisdom and courage is always the one to follow.