Examples Of Compassion In To Kill A Mockingbird

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Riddled throughout Harper Lees's To Kill A Mocking Bird, are characters of compassion. Of these characters, three stand out in particular, Atticus, Jem and Dill. Because each one demonstrated compassion when others around them did not, they display a distinct uniqueness. They did not show hate or disgust to those some would consider below them. Instead, they showed great strength through their love and sympathy towards the outcasts and victims of society. They chose to make a difference and love. The character of compassion describes Atticus more than anybody else. His affection and tenderness towards his children shows through his endless devotion and concern for their well being. He consistently treats anyone and everyone with kindness and understanding. An example of such occurred during the conflicts between Atticus's son Jem and Mrs. Dubose. "Jem, she's old and ill. You can't hold her responsible for what she says and does. Of course, I'd rather she'd have said it to me than to either of you, but we can't always have our 'druthers." This demonstrates Atticus's ability to sympathize and understand others even when they have offended and disrespected him and his family. …show more content…

He shows this quality largely through the treatment of his sister Scout. Although they get into the occasional quarrels and scuffle, Jem cares greatly for her. He often encourages her in her moments of sadness and even defends her from tormentors such as Mrs. Dubose. Jem's attitude of caring and sympathy also reached out beyond his sister and to others. Jem clearly demonstrates this in his treatment towards Walter Cunningham, "Jem suddenly grinned at him. 'Come on home to dinner with us, Walter,' he said. 'We'd be glad to have you'' This displays great concern and caring on Jem's end towards Walter as he understood Walter did not have anything to

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