Examples Of Empathy In To Kill A Mockingbird

In Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”, empathy is at the heart of the story. It is represented in different events and characters. This literary piece is an effective example of demonstrating understanding towards others. Empathy can be seen in many different characters throughout the novel such as Scout, Atticus, and Tom Robinson. They gain wisdom and show sympathy to the people that deserve it.

Scout is one of the many characters that show empathy in the plot. Her wisdom of this specific trait is gained through her fathers’ influence throughout her childhood. When she and her brother were younger and were more curious, they were very interested in their mysterious neighbour Arthur Radley, known more for being called Boo. Boo is Maycomb’s

Atticus is a single father and lawyer who is very open-minded and caring. He shows and teaches empathy in many different ways throughout the novel. One example of his extraordinary sympathy towards people is when he takes on the case of Tom Robinson. Tom being framed for rape causes Atticus to be frustrated with his society. If he wouldn’t take on the case he would disappoint the town, his children, and himself. “For a number of reasons,” said Atticus. “The main one is, if I didn’t I couldn’t hold up my head in town, I couldn’t represent this county in the legislature, I couldn’t even tell you or Jem not to do something again” (83). He empathizes with Mr. Robinson as he defends him against the hard case of rape for Mayella Ewell. He understands racial segregation and how it affects Tom, as well as, the black community itself. Another example of how Atticus empathizes with someone is with Mrs. Dubose. Mrs. Dubose is a very old, ill, lady that has been a morphine addict. She decides to step down from her medication and die sober from her addiction. “Easy does it, son,” Atticus would say. “She’s an old lady and she’s ill. You just hold your head high and be a gentleman. Whatever she says to you, it’s your job not to let her make you mad.” (111). Atticus does not only teach his children about stepping into others' shoes, but he tries his best to understand another person’s emotions. He understood why Mrs. Dubose was getting angry and he didn’t feel bothered by her negative comments because of it. He knew saying them would help her beat her craving for