One of these people was Mrs. Dubose, who was one of the eldest and most sick of the town. She was extremely prejudiced against black people and deeply despised Atticus for defending a black man in court. However, Atticus was polite and respectful to her no matter how many slurs she threw at him, and Scout took notice. She said, “It was times like these when I thought my father, who hated guns and had never been to any wars, was the bravest man who ever lived” (134). Scout thought Atticus was brave for taking on this bully, not by revolting, but by means of respect. He faced Mrs. Dubose with pride and brushed off any taunt she had for him. Scout held this characteristic in high esteem and knew he was a courageous man.
Throughout the novel, To Kill A Mockingbird, courage is a revisited topic. Atticus Finch shows courage through example as a way to teach his children this meaningful attribute. A large amount of the town he takes residence in dislikes him, but Atticus still treats everyone respectfully and equally. Jem and Scout learn to do the same thing, as every reader of this book should