Defending Tom Robinson: a Closer Look at Atticus' Quotes

Throughout Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, the character of Atticus Finch stands as a symbol of justice and morality. One of the most significant aspects of Atticus' character is his unwavering defense of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of rape in the racially divided town of Maycomb. Atticus' belief in the equality of all individuals, regardless of their race, is evident through his powerful quotes defending Tom Robinson. This essay will analyze and explore the implications of these quotes, highlighting the themes of racial prejudice, moral integrity, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

One of the key themes in To Kill a Mockingbird is racial prejudice, and Atticus' quotes serve to highlight this issue. For instance, when Atticus tells his children, Scout and Jem, that "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb into his skin and walk around in it," he attempts to instill empathy and understanding in them (Lee 30). This quote underscores the racial bias present in Maycomb, where people fail to see Tom Robinson's perspective due to their prejudiced beliefs. Atticus' defense of Tom Robinson challenges this prejudice and encourages others to question their own biases.

Furthermore, Atticus also acknowledges the deeply ingrained racial biases held by the community when he states, "In our courts, when it's a white man's word against a black man's, the white man always wins" (Lee 295). This quote exposes the systemic racism within the justice system, demonstrating Atticus' awareness of the uphill battle he faces in defending Tom Robinson. By highlighting this injustice, Atticus aims to shed light on the racial prejudice that permeates Maycomb society.

Atticus Finch is regarded as a paragon of moral virtue in the novel, and his defense of Tom Robinson showcases his unwavering commitment to doing what is right. When Atticus declares, "I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man" (Lee 104), he emphasizes his belief in the importance of standing up for justice, even in the face of adversity. This quote reflects Atticus' strong moral compass and his refusal to be swayed by societal pressure or personal gain.

Atticus' moral integrity is further demonstrated when he tells Scout, "Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win" (Lee 101). This quote captures Atticus' determination to fight for what is right, despite the odds stacked against him. Atticus' defense of Tom Robinson is not merely a legal duty but a moral obligation in his eyes. Through these quotes, Atticus serves as a moral compass, inspiring others to follow their conscience and fight against injustice.

Atticus Finch's defense of Tom Robinson serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of standing up for what is right, regardless of the consequences. In his closing argument, Atticus passionately states, "The one place where a man ought to get a square deal is in a courtroom, be he any color of the rainbow, but people have a way of carrying their resentments right into a jury box" (Lee 271). This quote highlights Atticus' belief in the sanctity of the justice system and his frustration with the racial biases that taint it. By defending Tom Robinson, Atticus seeks to rectify the injustices that pervade Maycomb's legal system.

Additionally, Atticus teaches his children the importance of moral courage when he says, "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). This quote serves as a call to action, encouraging individuals to do what is right even when faced with insurmountable odds. Atticus' defense of Tom Robinson embodies this definition of courage, inspiring others to stand up against injustice and fight for equality.

Atticus Finch's quotes defending Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird exemplify his unwavering commitment to justice, his moral integrity, and his belief in the importance of standing up for what is right. Through these powerful quotes, Atticus exposes the racial prejudice that plagues Maycomb and challenges readers to question their own biases. Atticus' defense of Tom Robinson serves as a reminder of the need for empathy, moral courage, and the pursuit of justice in a society marked by inequality. Ultimately, Atticus' quotes inspire readers to reflect on their own actions and strive for a more just and equitable world.

Bibliography

Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Grand Central Publishing, 1960.