What is the ideal man? Someone who is strong and powerful? Or is he someone who stands by his values and is committed to all areas of his life? I believe the latter. In Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, we are introduced to a man who symbolizes all of those characteristics. Atticus Finch is the ideal man; he is a caring father, a dedicated and talented lawyer, and a symbol of tolerance in the deeply prejudiced town of Maycomb. As a father, Atticus strives to teach his children how to become respectful and productive members of society. To do this he uses his actions and his words, often setting a good example for his children. One of the main lessons he teaches his children is that "You never truly understand a person until you consider things from their point of view" (Lee 30). This lesson, along with the others he teaches Jem and Scout, allows them to become better people as they grow. Atticus not only teaches his children life lessons, but also cares deeply for them, taking care of them after their mother's death, instead of sending them to live with another family member, as would have been common for most of widowers with children in those countries. days. Atticus also feels the need to teach his children reality, rather than sugarcoating the truth, Atticus is almost always honest with his children, telling them the world. When Scout asked Atticus, "What is rape?" (Lee 135), he answers truthfully by saying that “rape was the carnal knowledge of a woman obtained by force and without consent” (Lee 135). These lessons taught by Atticus are only surpassed by the example he sets for his children in everyday life. Atticus is always polite and respectful, even towards those he dislikes, such as Bob Ewell and Mrs. Du... middle of paper... not a good enough reason to convict them of a crime. Many people like Maudie Atkinson were amazed by her resolve. Atticus not only fought racism, but he also fought prejudice in general. He would never treat anyone differently or unfairly for any reason. When Bob Ewell, a man who had threatened the lives of his children, was killed, Atticus wanted whoever killed him to be brought to justice, even if it was his son. This clearly demonstrates his commitment to equality and creating a society free from prejudice and intolerance. If you consider Atticus Finch, it is obvious that he is an ideal man. His moral code allows him to stand out among his peers and overcome prejudice, intolerance and inequality. In my opinion Atticus Finch is the ideal man; he is a caring father, a dedicated and talented lawyer, and a symbol of tolerance in the deeply prejudiced town of Maycomb.
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