In his famous novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Harper Lee deliberately refers to themes of virtue and empathy. Bringing the lessons of morality, the author tries to show your readers merits of human nature. And there are many such examples.
The Compassion of Atticus Finch
The lawyer, driven not only by his duty to blind justice but also by simple humanism, undertakes to protect a black man in court. He is completely on the side of the law, which says that until the guilt of the defendant is proved, he or she is considered innocent. This is the reason why Finch, despite the possible risks to his reputation, agrees to represent Tom, falsely accused of rape. Atticus does not just talk to him as an equal person, but he identifies own life with his destiny, condemning inequality and prejudice based on racism.
Scout and Boo
Scout’s sympathy to her neighbor Boo Radley is caused by the inaccessibility of the atmosphere of injustice typical to the whole city. For her, Boo is only a delicate mockingbird, condemned by people who do not understand his behavior. Perceiving as a threat by many children, in reality, we see a child who wants to communicate but is deprived of it. The girl gratefully accepts his gifts, realizing that her friendship can at least slightly brighten his loneliness. In general, it is possible to trace the transformation of the Scout personality, which goes from frank sarcasm to an absolute understanding of another person.
Jem and His Father
Between Jem and Atticus there are complex relationships. All the blame is the nature of his father, characterized by severity and straightforwardness. But, despite this, during the trial, Jem tried to share dad’s pain, caused by a sense of despair and a predetermined sentence. He sympathizes with Tom's misfortune but is proud of the father's principled position, whose attitude remains unshakable.
The Black Community and The Lessons of Mrs. Dubose
Modi is another active defender of the blacks, who oppose humiliation and racial insults. She fully supports Finch. After the jury acknowledges the guilt of Tom, she notes that Atticus's excellent work forced the court to devote more time to this case than they originally planned. Using influence, the widow does not fear to engage in injustice.
Knowing the state of health of Mrs. Dubose, Atticus sends his kids to her. They must read to an old lady at the appointed time. At first, Jem resists, guided by the dislike of her. But over time, he begins to understand her condition as his mission, namely: brighten up her last days of life.
Tom and Mayella
In the novel, there is a place for everyday empathy. In particular, Robinson decides to help Mayella Ewell with household chores free of charge, for which he is subsequently brought to trial. The paradox of the situation is that the prosecutor does not believe in his humanity, attributing humanism only to highly intelligent white people. For blacks, Mr. Gilmer leaves only the basest motives. Most likely, it was for manhood to a white woman Tom Robinson was sentenced to death.
The sad ending in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” does not leave anyone indifferent, for it is its tragedy that teaches us empathy. Harper Lee introduces examples of compassion to the canvas of the story, insisting that it is the main quality of human nature. The author proves it is never too late to learn to sympathize. We just have to drop selfishness and open our eyes wider.
Author: Erica Morris