Why Is Atticus Finch Unfair

Yurin vera

English 11 honors

Lisa Copeland

April . 18. 23

To Kill A Mockingbird

In the novel To Kill A Mockingbird written by Harper Lee, she demonstrates why people should always be treated fairly and without prejudice. Atticus Finch a White man and lawyer of Maycomb County in the 1930’s is chosen to defend a Black man named Tom Robinson that is falsely accused of rape by a White woman named Mayella Ewell. Atticus tries his hardest to get Tom the justice he deserves but despite his best efforts the verdict made by the judge is that Tom is guilty of the charges. Then Tom is taken to jail where he tries to escape and dies doing so. The novel teaches the reader why it is wrong to treat others unfairly, unequally and with prejudice.

As said by Atticus,” I don’t know but they did it tonight and they’ll do it again and when they do it-seems that only children weep.” (213). Because Tom is judged guilty Atticus believes that the justice system is sometimes unfair and unethical, to colored people and it may continue that way for a long time.

Atticus considers that if someone is being accused of a severe crime it is very important to have other people to verify that the events actually occurred. Atticus explains himself saying, “- I mean, before a man’s sentenced to death for murder say, there should be one or two eye-witnesses. Someone should be able to say, “Yes, I was there and saw him pull the trigger.” (219). He believes this is important because it would prevent innocent people from going to jail and create a more fair and just trial.

Atticus firmly believes that all men are created equal and the place where it must be shown is in the court of law. Atticus states, “Our courts have their faults, as does any human institution, but in this country our courts are the great levelers, and in our courts all men are created equal.” (205). He explains how every individual is the same as the other in court and must be treated as such. Atticus acknowledges the court makes mistakes but reminds them they must be fair with everyone because that is what their courts are all