Harper Lee shows the character of Atticus through the
language she chooses for him, by differentiating him completely from the townsfolk of
Macomb. If you notice, Atticus is not only a well- educated man, but one who picks his
words carefully in order not to belittle, nor offend,
anyone.
When he is upset, as he is during the trial of Tom
Robinson, he reflects the mentality of the people by repeating the common mistaken ideas
that people have about their black neighbors. He appeals to the emotions of the people
by clearly declaring how he, himself, accepts everybody as an equal and is willing to
defend anybody whom he considers to be innocent. This, he does with words that appeal
directly to the senses, as well as to the common sense of his
audience.
He is measured, paused, eloquent, and not
overly-complicated when he talks, despite of being one of the most intelligent men in
Macomb. He is able to talk to just anybody regardless of social or educational level and
change his mode to adapt to theirs.
In all, one can almost
feel that Atticus is a being altogether alien to Macomb. His eloquence, his in-depth
thinking, and the simplicity and sensible ability for speech make him someone who exudes
tolerance, compassion, peace, and love, towards all.
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