Comparing and Contrasting between Atticus Finch and Baptista Minola

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An ideal father would be able to solve problems properly, support their children's thoughts, consider their feelings and treat all their children equally. In particular, Atticus Finch of “To Kill a Mockingbird”, by Harper Lee proves himself to be the perfect example of a better father in contrast of Baptista Minola from "Taming of the Shrew" by William Shakespeare.Although both fathers want a stable future for their children, Atticus Finch's teachings are considered more valuable by treating his children equally, and setting good examples such as promoting equality, and to not become prejudice.

As Lee Haney has quoted, “Parents must lead by example. Don't use the cliche: do as I say and not as I do. Parents are children's first and most important role models,” it is important for a parent to set healthy and positive examples throughout a child's development stage. In a small town of social division through prejudice and intolerance, Atticus teaches to Jem and Scout his values and beliefs through setting examples. Atticus teaches them that prejudice is bad by going against societal norms, such as taking a black man's case in a dominating “white society” and standing up for the African-American community to defend their equal rights. When Scout questions, "...Why did Cecil say you defended niggers? He made it sound like you were runnin' a still," Atticus then responds, "I'm simply defending a Negro...they're clean living folks. Scout, you aren't old enough to understand some things yet...there's been some high talk around to the effect that I shouldn't do much about defending this man." (Lee, 75) This is important in the novel because Atticus demonstrates tolerance to his children when he receives the Robinson's case and decides t...

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