Atticus's Choice to Defend Tom: a Moral Imperative

Why does Atticus defend Tom? That’s the big question in Harper Lee's classic, *To Kill a Mockingbird*. Atticus Finch, a lawyer in a small town, takes on the tough job of defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman, in the tense, racially charged 1930s Alabama. Despite the odds being against him, Atticus defends Tom because he believes in the goodness of people, the quest for justice, and the need to set a good example for his kids.

One big reason Atticus defends Tom is his strong belief in the basic goodness of people. Throughout the story, Atticus shows his faith in the decency of everyone, no matter their race or social status. He thinks everyone deserves equal protection under the law, no matter their skin color. This belief is clear when he tells his kids, "Courage is not a man with a gun in his hand. It's knowing you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what" (Lee 112). Atticus knows their society is full of inequality and prejudice, but he won’t let that stop him from doing what’s right.

Another reason Atticus defends Tom is his strong commitment to justice. He gets that justice isn't always easy, especially in a divided place like Maycomb. But Atticus believes fighting for justice is a moral duty that goes beyond personal comfort and societal norms. In court, Atticus skillfully points out the flaws in the prosecution's case, challenging the prejudices that might condemn an innocent man. His dedication to justice is clear when he tells his kids, "The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience" (Lee 105). For Atticus, defending Tom isn’t just a legal job; it’s a moral duty to uphold fairness and equality.

Also, Atticus defends Tom because he wants to set an example for his kids, Scout and Jem. As a single dad, he knows his actions speak louder than words. By defending Tom, Atticus teaches his kids about empathy, compassion, and standing up for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular. This becomes a key lesson for Scout and Jem, shaping their ideas about justice and equality. They learn from their dad that courage isn't the absence of fear but facing it head-on, even when the odds are tough.

In the end, Atticus’s decision to defend Tom Robinson comes from his belief in the goodness of people, his commitment to justice, and his desire to be a good role model for his kids. He won't be swayed by the deep-seated racism and prejudice in his community. Instead, he fights for what he knows is right. Through his defense of Tom, Atticus challenges societal norms and points out the flaws in a justice system that lets racial bias win. His decision is a strong reminder of the importance of standing up for justice, even when facing great opposition.