Morality is timeless Essay

Harper Lees To Kill a Mockingbird highlights examples of heroism and fearlessness in a small Alabama town plagued with racism and poverty. The novel focuses on the experiences of the Finch family which consists of Atticus, Jem, and Scout. Scout serves as the narrator of the book her story is based on her recollections of the events leading up to, during, and after her fathers defense of Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping Mayell Ewell, a white woman. To Kill a Mockingbird is not only a critique of racism, but teaches valuable life lessons about honourable courage and standing up for what is right.The protagonist, Atticus, displays both lesson and physical courage throughout the novel. He is committed to instilling in his children the importance of living an ethical lifestyle regardless of the circumstances. For example, he explains to Scout that he accepted the Tom Robinson case because it is a moral obligation for equal representation. Specifically, he clarifies to Scout t hat the primary reason is if I didnt I couldnt hold up my head in town, I couldnt represent this county in the legislature, I couldnt even tell you or Jem not to do something again (Lee 83).Atticus believes that it is only fair to judge one in terms of that individuals moral caliber not by the modify of their skin. Further more, he does not condone retaliation. Even though Mrs. Dubose, a morphine addict, is prejudice and unkind, Atticus reprimands Jem for behaving heartlessly towards her. Atticus never loses his composure even when track Ewell maliciously spits in his face. He rationally explains, He had to take it out on somebody and Id rather it be me than that houseful of children out there. You realise? (Lee 218).Harper Lees lesson is that a persons morals should not be affected by others behaviors or beliefs. pureness Above All 1 Steiner 2 Harper Lee creates the narrator, Scout, to demonstrate that morality is not necessarily instinctive but can be taught. As the novel pr ogresses, Scout realizes that moral courage is more difficult to carry out than physical courage. No one in the community wants to associate with tinkers dam Radley however, Scout comes to recognize his compassion and returns it with civility. Although initially fearful, Scout welcomes Boos gifts and embraces his differences.Again, Scout demonstrates that morality can be learned when a potentially knock-down-and-drag-out situation arises at playground with another classmate she refrains from using force. Her calmer nature proves effective at the courthouse. She harmlessly inquires about Mr. Cunninghams family, Hey Mr. Cunningham. I know your son, Walter he is a nice kid. We go to school together (Lee 81). Her kindness results in the scattering of the angry townspeople. Scout witnesses that kindness is effective tool to avert violence. The tike characters of Calpurnia, Tom Robinson, and Boo Radley are symbols of decency and respect regardless of their backgrounds.Calpurnia chastis es Scout for mocking Walters unsophisticated eating habits. Hush your mouth Dont payoff who they are, anybody sets foot in this houses yo compny, and dont you let me catch you remarkin on their ways like you was so high and mighty (Lee 33). Calpurnia is a maternal figure for the Finch children as she too, similarly to Atticus, helps them to differentiate right from wrong. Tom Robinson exhibits courage when he volunteers to help Mayella Ewell with household chores even though he is sure of his inferior social standing.His decision to speak only the truth in court by stating, I felt right sorry for her she seemed to try moren the rest of em. ,(Lee 197) further demonstrates his caring demeanor and commitment to behave courteously. Lee includes the character of Boo to Honor Above All 2 Steiner 3 depict another type of prejudice social discrimination. Despite his social alienation, Boo courageously abandons the safety of his home to help his kids. Boo is guided by his sense of what i s right and puts aside societys rejection. Calpurnia, Tom Robinson, and Boo are guided by morality.Courage can be defined as the ability to face fear, pain, uncertainty, and the unknown. Harper Lee effectively uses her characters to demonstrate moral and immoral choices and consequences. Atticus and Scout respond to the towns racism with a resolute sense of purpose. Through her fathers and Calpurnias guidance she becomes more refined and tolerant. She averts physical confrontations at school and understands that morality should not dislodge with each situation. The character of Tom Robinson symbolizes what it truly means to be a caring human being. Regardless of the racism that he endures, he is honest and compassionate. dapple racism plays a significant role in Lees novel the importance of moral courage cannot be understated. As Atticus deeply advises, Youll never know really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view (Lee 65). Harper Lee conveys that si nce unspoiltice is blind to race, gender, and differences a moral code is the only hope for equality. Unfortunately, as exhibited in the novel, adhering to ones moral code does not always guarantee the desired or just outcome. Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. London Vintage Classics, 2007. Print. Honor Above All 3.