As many of you may know, I am Jem Finch, Atticus’ son. I am speaking on behalf of myself and my sister Scout.
Atticus Finch was in incredible man who affected all of our lives. He showed us the good in people and helped us try to understand the world we live in. He was a different type of father for Scout and me, but he was the best we could have asked for. He taught us to care for our loved ones. He taught us right from wrong. He taught us the right morals and their importance. We learnt so much from him, and I believe I wouldn’t be half the person I am today without his great influence. His contributions to our lives made us all better people, and we are always reminiscing about the many amazing times we have had with or because of him.
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This was Tom Robinson’s case, who was convicted of the bashing and rape of young Mayella Ewell. There was enormous doubt surrounding Tom’s guilt, however he was convicted guilty, primarily because he was a black man, and the Ewells were white. Atticus was called to take on this case and defend Tom Robinson. I believe he was the best man to do this job. My father loved human kind and took pride in this. His realistic approach meant that he knew he would not win the case, but he took it on despite this and argued it to the best of his abilities. This trial also caused a lot of discrimination in our little town of Maycomb, and Atticus was heavily criticised. He took it in his stride and did not let it affect him, because he knew in his heart that he was doing the right thing. He could not have lived with himself had he not fought Tom Robinson’s case. Atticus always had the right morals and equality was his top priority. He was a man beyond his time, as the 1930s was an era of much prejudice. Even now, thirty years later, there is still civil unrest where the same battles are being fought. Scout and I admired Atticus for being so understanding, compassionate and sacrificial. He was setting a great example for us. I remember being angered greatly by my father losing the trial, as I was not yet aware of the injustice in our society. However I knew that even though he hadn’t won the case Atticus had stood up for what he believed in and he would influence others to do the same. It was a step forward to see a white man rightfully defend a black man in court. Atticus inspired me to become a human rights lawyer and I too hope that I will, one day, influence my children to do what is right, however that may be. There were many bad people in our little town, but Atticus was not one of them. He was the one that put them all to shame. He taught me that everyone should get a fair trial, in