Examples Of Heroism In To Kill A Mockingbird

In the novel ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ Atticus Finch shows different forms of heroic behaviours in the novel. Through the eyes and experiences of Scout, Lee explores the themes of rape, racism and segregation. But most notably he invites the reader to consider what does it mean to be a hero. Heroism means ‘Great bravery’, and Atticus certainly shows that in ‘To kIll a mockingbird.’ We see his heroic acts when Atticus is in court by defending Tom Robinson who is an African American. Tom Robinson was in court because he was accused of raping a young white female. Throughout the story we see that Scout had to learn to view Atticus as being a hero. Atticus was the true hero of the story. We see that Atticus is a hero towards the Maycomb town by showing his heroic behaviour when he shoots the rabid dog. Atticus is an amazing parent, he raised two bright, independent and open-minded children that were called Scout and Jem, He loves his children, but does not allow them to get away with poor behavior. He takes every opportunity to teach his children a lesson that will then lead them to become wonderfully productive and fair citizens in society.

Atticus values justice and equality and standing up for Tom in court proves Atticus is a hero. Atticus protects the town of Maycomb by killing a rabid wild dog that could put the town at serious health risks. The act of killing the dog put his own health and safety at risk for the protection of others. A true hero puts others before themselves. The last reason why Atticus is a hero is because he never judged someone before he knew them. Atticus never believed in following the citizens of the town spreading rumours, as that proves there is no humanity left in people. Atticus is portrayed and proven to be a hero all through the novel ‘To kill a