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Essay / Atticus Finch: the ideal man. - 636
Who is the ideal man? Someone strong and powerful? Or is it someone who defends their values and is committed to all areas of their life? I believe the latter. In Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, we are introduced to a man who symbolizes all of these characteristics. Atticus Finch is the ideal man; he is a caring father, a dedicated and talented lawyer, and a symbol of tolerance in the deeply prejudiced town of Maycomb. As a father, Atticus strives to teach his children how to become respectful and productive members of society. He does this by using his actions and words, often setting a good example for his children. One of the main lessons he teaches his children is that “you never truly understand a person until you consider things from their point of view” (Lee 30). This lesson, along with the others he teaches Jem and Scout, allows them to become better people as they grow up. Not only does Atticus teach his children life lessons, but he also cares deeply about them, taking care of them after their mother's death, rather than sending them to live with another family member, like this would have been common for most widowers with children in these countries. days. Atticus also feels the need to teach his children reality, rather than watering down the truth. Atticus is almost always honest with his children, telling them about the world. When Scout asked Atticus, “What is rape?” (Lee 135), he responds with the truth by saying that “rape was carnal knowledge of a woman by force and without her consent” (Lee 135). These lessons taught by Atticus are only surpassed by the example he sets for his children in his daily life. Atticus is always polite and respectful, even to those who are unpleasant to him, such as Bob Ewell and Mrs. Du... middle of paper ... this is not a good enough reason to convict them of a crime. . Many people, like Maudie Atkinson, were amazed by her determination. Not only did Atticus fight racism, he fought prejudice as a whole. He would never treat anyone differently or unfairly for any reason. When Bob Ewell, a man who had threatened the lives of his children, was killed, Atticus wanted the man who killed him to be brought to justice, even if it was his own son. This clearly shows its commitment to equality and the creation of a society free from prejudice and intolerance. When we consider Atticus Finch, it is obvious that he is an ideal man. His moral code allows him to stand out from his peers and overcome prejudices, intolerance and inequalities. In my opinion, Atticus Finch is the ideal man; he is a caring father, a dedicated and talented lawyer, and a symbol of tolerance in the deeply prejudiced town of Maycomb..