What makes a 'Father of the Year'? Is it a man that spends time with his children? Or could it be a man who teaches his children lessons of wisdom and how to care? I believe that a 'Father of the Year' doesn't singly do each of these things, a man, like Atticus does them all. Atticus Finch has shown that he is an understanding person and a role model to his children. He achieves this through his individuality; Atticus has the courage to stand up for his rights and beliefs - standing up for beliefs is what Atticus believes is important even when others disagree. Atticus cares for his children by teaching them not to let go of personal values. He guides his children through their journey of life by his example, as well as his love and wise words.

"If your father's anything, he's civilized in his heart." (Chapter 10, page 108)

Miss Maudie's comment predicates the character of Atticus. The reflection tells us that his principal quality is that he is a man with a good heart. When Miss Maudie describes Atticus' heart as civilized she is suggesting that Atticus is an well-educated man with a sensitive, refined nature. Perhaps more importantly, is that he is a highly skilled

The themes I've explored in this essay relate to how Atticus has been a positive role model for his children. I have looked at Atticus as a man of an understanding and tolerant nature, a man of conviction and a man of courage

"While Walter piled food onto his plate, he and Atticus talked together like two men, to the wonderment to Jem and me." (Chapter 3, page26)

Although angered about Mrs Dubose's comment, Atticus just accepts the offensive remarks, knowing in his heart that he is sticking by his morals. Mrs Dubose's comments impact on Jem and Scout, and they too are angered. Atticus takes the time to explain to his children the importance of his choice to defend a black man.

The most important quality that Atticus has in his role as a father is his ability to listen, reflect and respond to the needs of his children. Chapter 23 contains a lot of complex issues concerning things like the court- room, human equality and the dark side of human nature. What I want to talk about is the way Atticus works with his children to resolve their questions. At this time of crisis Atticus can still find the time to sit with his children, hear out their concerns and give them answers in a mature and straight to the point way. He treats his children as equals. Jem makes a statement about the court system: -

" Marksmanship's a gift of God, a talent... he (Atticus) put his gun down when he realised that God had given him an unfair advantage over most living things." (Chapter 10, page 109)

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1073
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)