Should Atticus Defend Tom Robinson

Why did Atticus defend Tom Robinson? This question has been at the heart of Harper Lee's classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. The character of Atticus Finch, a small-town lawyer in the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama, has faced criticism and praise alike for his decision to defend Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. In this essay, we will explore the reasons behind Atticus's choice to defend Tom Robinson and its implications in the context of the novel. Through a careful analysis of the text, we will argue that Atticus's decision was motivated by his unwavering belief in justice, his commitment to upholding the principles of the legal system, and his determination to challenge the prevailing racial prejudices of his community.

Justice and Fairness

One of the main reasons why Atticus decided to defend Tom Robinson was his deep-rooted belief in justice and fairness. Throughout the novel, Atticus is portrayed as a principled man who values the truth above all else. He recognizes that everyone, regardless of their race or social standing, deserves a fair trial and legal representation. Atticus understands that Tom Robinson, despite being a black man in a racially biased society, has the right to a fair defense and an opportunity to prove his innocence. By defending Tom Robinson, Atticus is not only fulfilling his duty as a lawyer but also upholding the fundamental principles of justice.

Atticus's commitment to justice is evident in his famous statement to his children, Scout and Jem: "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 encapsulates Atticus's unwavering belief in the power and importance of fighting for justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Atticus recognizes that the odds are stacked against Tom Robinson due to the deeply ingrained racial prejudices of Maycomb's society, but he still feels compelled to defend him. Atticus's decision is driven by his belief that everyone deserves a fair chance, regardless of the prevailing circumstances.

Challenging Racial Prejudices

Another key reason for Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson is his determination to challenge the racial prejudices of his community. Maycomb is depicted as a deeply segregated and racist town, where black people are marginalized and discriminated against. Atticus, however, stands as a beacon of hope in this oppressive environment. He believes in the inherent equality of all individuals and refuses to succumb to the prevailing racist attitudes.

Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson serves as a powerful symbol of his resistance against racial injustice. By taking on this challenging case, Atticus confronts the deeply ingrained prejudices of Maycomb's society and exposes the hypocrisy of their claims to uphold justice and equality. Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson is not merely an act of legal representation; it is a bold statement against racism and a call for social change.

The Principles of the Legal System

Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson also aligns with his commitment to upholding the principles of the legal system. As a lawyer, Atticus is well aware of the flaws and biases within the justice system, but he firmly believes in its potential for justice and fairness. By defending Tom Robinson, Atticus seeks to expose the shortcomings of the legal system when it comes to cases involving race.

Atticus's defense strategy is based on presenting a strong case and challenging the credibility of the prosecution's witnesses. He meticulously examines the evidence and cross-examines the witnesses, highlighting inconsistencies and raising doubts. Through his skilled legal tactics, Atticus aims to demonstrate the inherent flaws and biases in the system, particularly when it comes to cases involving racial tensions. Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson is not just about winning the case but also about exposing the systemic racism that permeates the legal system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird was motivated by his unwavering belief in justice, his determination to challenge racial prejudices, and his commitment to upholding the principles of the legal system. Atticus recognized the importance of providing a fair defense to a man who was unjustly accused due to the color of his skin. By defending Tom Robinson, Atticus became a symbol of hope and resistance against the prevailing racism of Maycomb's society. His decision serves as a reminder of the power of individuals to fight for justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson in the novel continues to resonate as a powerful testament to the enduring struggle for equality and justice.

Bibliography

Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 2002.