To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee takes readers on an adventure to discover realistic views on society and communication between people. The characters are portrayed in different ways as they go through changes and face difficult situations. Several acts of mental courage are explored in To Kill a Mockingbird, such as Atticus's attitude and actions, Mrs. Dubose's beliefs, and Jem's understanding of courage. Each character's courage gives them strength and a growing understanding of themselves as the novel progresses. Atticus Finch is a good example of a character with strong mental courage. He is someone who always follows his own beliefs and thoughts. His actions always reflect his choices, not society's view on a situation. He has confidence in his own decision and believes in doing what is right, especially when it is against all the negative pressures of society, which shows that he is right and courageous. An example of this is the trial with Tom Robinson. Atticus risks his reputation and social standing to defend Tom because he truly believes that Tom is not guilty. Although he is under pressure from many Maycomb citizens who believe Tom is guilty, he ignores everything, defending Tom without worrying about the judgment of others. Atticus knows that due to the discrimination and racism in Maycomb society he has no chance in the trial, but he vows to complete it because he promises to help Tom. It's his choice because he believes in it. "[Courage is] when you know you're beaten before you start, but you start anyway and make it no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do." (Lee, 112). This quote reflects on Atticus's thoughts and opinions on the defense...... middle of paper ...... much on Atticus's mental courage, Mrs. Dubose, and the trial with Tom. Bottom line, Atticus, Mrs. Dubose. Dubose and Jem are three of the main characters who show clear examples of courage. Atticus teaches readers to do what we believe is right and to move forward even if it seems impossible. Ms. Dubose teaches readers that courage is not a man with a gun in his hand, but that courage requires determination, perseverance, and always moving forward, fighting against the odds. Finally, Jem teaches readers that as you grow, your perspective of courage changes and you should always follow your beliefs about what is right and wrong. Courage in To Kill a Mockingbird is evidently important, as learning from these characters can be helpful to the reader later on. Works Cited Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Philadelphia: Lippincott, 1960. Print.