The ancient Greeks identified four cardinal virtues in their study of moral philosophy: prudence, fortitude, temperance, and justice. As none of these traits are innate, humanity must continually strive to acquire these characteristics. Fortitude, or courage, entails confronting challenges without cowardice. Courage is a central theme throughout the novel To Kill a Mockingbird. To Kill a Mockingbird was written by American novelist Harper Lee, whose own story holds striking parallels to her piece. Lee started writing the book in the 1950s, completing the novel in 1957 and publishing it in 1960 – during the American civil rights movement. To Kill a Mockingbird later received the Pulitzer Prize in 1961, and its film adaptation won multiple Academy
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For instance, Atticus tells Scout, “Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win” (Lee, 101). Atticus’s comment that they are ‘licked’ may foreshadow that they lose the trial. However, the quote reveals that while racism may permeate throughout society, he will still fight it to uphold his beliefs. By doing so, he exhibits great courage by striving for what is morally right, despite how prejudiced others may be. An additional instance of foreshadowing is when Atticus tells Scout more about Tom Robinson’s case, remarking that “[Calpurnia] says they’re clean-living folks… there’s been some high talk around town to the effect that I shouldn’t do much about defending this man… John Taylor was kind enough to give us a postponement” (Lee, 100). This means that the trial will be highly controversial – some think Tom was guilty, while others like Calpurnia and Judge Taylor are more supportive. Atticus’s words foreshadow that there will be conflict in the future, but throughout that, there will be those who are courageous enough to give everyone a fair chance. The people who ignore racial prejudice and aim towards a just trial for Tom are demonstrating courage by standing with their moral compasses, opposing the majority. Later, Atticus also reminds Scout, “This time we aren’t fighting the Yankees, we’re fighting our friends. But remember this, no matter how bitter things get, they’re still our friends and this is still our home” (Lee, 101-102). This foreshadows that the Finches may endure bitter words and actions from former friends. Nevertheless, Scout knows that this conflict ultimately cannot destroy her life, and finds solace in this. While people may be resentful and angry, Atticus tells Scout that they should continue to bravely fight for what’s right. Thus, Scout learns that she must make the honorable decision, even if her
For instance, Atticus tells Scout, “Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win” (Lee, 101). Atticus’s comment that they are ‘licked’ may foreshadow that they lose the trial. However, the quote reveals that while racism may permeate throughout society, he will still fight it to uphold his beliefs. By doing so, he exhibits great courage by striving for what is morally right, despite how prejudiced others may be. An additional instance of foreshadowing is when Atticus tells Scout more about Tom Robinson’s case, remarking that “[Calpurnia] says they’re clean-living folks… there’s been some high talk around town to the effect that I shouldn’t do much about defending this man… John Taylor was kind enough to give us a postponement” (Lee, 100). This means that the trial will be highly controversial – some think Tom was guilty, while others like Calpurnia and Judge Taylor are more supportive. Atticus’s words foreshadow that there will be conflict in the future, but throughout that, there will be those who are courageous enough to give everyone a fair chance. The people who ignore racial prejudice and aim towards a just trial for Tom are demonstrating courage by standing with their moral compasses, opposing the majority. Later, Atticus also reminds Scout, “This time we aren’t fighting the Yankees, we’re fighting our friends. But remember this, no matter how bitter things get, they’re still our friends and this is still our home” (Lee, 101-102). This foreshadows that the Finches may endure bitter words and actions from former friends. Nevertheless, Scout knows that this conflict ultimately cannot destroy her life, and finds solace in this. While people may be resentful and angry, Atticus tells Scout that they should continue to bravely fight for what’s right. Thus, Scout learns that she must make the honorable decision, even if her