Why Does Atticus Defend Tom? The Ultimate Guide

The Importance of Understanding Atticus’s Decision to Defend Tom

Harper Lee’s classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a masterpiece that explores many themes, including racism, prejudice, and justice. The novel centers around the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man who is falsely accused of raping a white woman in a small Alabama town during the 1930s. Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer and the father of the novel’s protagonist, Scout Finch, is appointed by the court to defend Tom. But why does Atticus defend Tom? This question has been the subject of much discussion, debate, and analysis. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Atticus’s decision to defend Tom, and why it is important to understand his motivation.

Atticus’s Relationship with Tom

One of the key factors that led Atticus to defend Tom was his relationship with the accused. Atticus had a deep sense of empathy and compassion towards Tom, who he believed was innocent of the charges against him. Atticus recognized that Tom was a victim of the racist and unjust system that existed in the town, and he felt it was his duty and responsibility as a lawyer and a human being to defend him. Atticus’s sense of justice and fairness was not limited to his relationship with Tom alone, but extended to all people, regardless of their race or social status.

Atticus’s Beliefs and Values

Atticus’s decision to defend Tom is also rooted in his beliefs and values. He believed that all people were equal and deserved equal treatment under the law. Atticus was committed to the principles of fairness, justice, and equality, and he saw the trial of Tom as an opportunity to uphold these values. Atticus was aware that his decision to defend Tom would be unpopular and would bring him into conflict with many members of the community. However, he was unwavering in his commitment to what he believed was right, and he was willing to endure the social ostracism and criticism that came with it.

Social and Political Context

The social and political context of the time in which the novel is set also played a significant role in Atticus’s decision to defend Tom. The novel is set during the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and social upheaval in the United States. Racism and prejudice against African Americans were widespread, and the legal system was often used to reinforce and perpetuate these prejudices. Atticus was keenly aware of this and saw the trial of Tom as an opportunity to challenge these entrenched attitudes and values.

The Role of Atticus as a Moral Compass

Atticus’s decision to defend Tom can also be seen as an example of his role as a moral compass. Throughout the novel, Atticus serves as a moral guide for his children and the community. He teaches them the values of compassion, empathy, fairness, and justice. Atticus’s decision to defend Tom is an example of him putting these principles into practice. By taking on the case, Atticus was setting an example for his children and the community, showing them that it was possible to stand up for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

FAQs

Why did Atticus take on the case?

Atticus took on the case of Tom Robinson because he believed that he was innocent and that it was his duty as a lawyer and a human being to defend him. Atticus was committed to the principles of fairness, justice, and equality, and he saw the trial of Tom as an opportunity to uphold these values.

What was Atticus’s relationship with Tom?

Atticus had a deep sense of empathy and compassion towards Tom, who he believed was a victim of the racist and unjust system that existed in the town. Atticus’s sense of justice and fairness was not limited to his relationship with Tom alone, but extended to all people, regardless of their race or social status.

Why did Atticus’s decision to defend Tom cause controversy?

Atticus’s decision to defend Tom caused controversy because it went against the prevailing attitudes and values of the community. Racism and prejudice against African Americans were widespread, and the legal system was often used to reinforce and perpetuate these prejudices. Atticus’s decision to defend Tom challenged these entrenched attitudes and values, and it brought him into conflict with many members of the community.

Did Atticus believe that he could win the case?

Atticus knew that the odds were against him in the trial of Tom Robinson. He was aware that the legal system was stacked against African Americans and that he would be facing an uphill battle. However, Atticus believed that it was his duty to defend Tom and to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and equality, regardless of the outcome of the trial.

What was the significance of the trial for the community?

The trial of Tom Robinson was significant for the community because it challenged the entrenched attitudes and values of racism and prejudice that were prevalent at the time. Atticus’s decision to defend Tom was a symbol of hope and a challenge to the status quo. The trial revealed the deep-seated injustices and inequalities that existed in the town and forced people to confront their own biases and prejudices.

What was the impact of Atticus’s decision to defend Tom on his children?

Atticus’s decision to defend Tom had a profound impact on his children, Jem and Scout. It taught them the values of compassion, empathy, fairness, and justice, and it showed them that it was possible to stand up for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. Atticus’s example inspired his children to become more aware of the injustices and inequalities that existed in the world and to become more committed to making a difference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Atticus’s decision to defend Tom was motivated by a combination of factors, including his relationship with Tom, his beliefs and values, and the social and political context of the time. Atticus saw the trial as an opportunity to challenge the entrenched attitudes and values of racism and prejudice that were prevalent in the community and to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and equality. Atticus’s decision to defend Tom was a symbol of hope and a challenge to the status quo, and it had a profound impact on his children and the community as a whole.