Question

Although criticized openly, Atticus is respected throughout the town of Maycomb. Why is this true? Give specific examples of both the respect shown to Atticus and the criticism he receives. How can it be possible that his actions as Tom’s attorney provoke such anger in the community and yet he still seems to be respected by the people of Maycomb? Support your answer with details from the story.

Answer 1

Answer:

Atticus is known as a very open man, Miss Rachel even saying he was a very un two-faced man, claiming he acted the same inside the house as he did outside.  He was largely respected for this, and for the way he carried himself.  For example, Scout and Jem saw Atticus unbutton his clothes and remove his jacket for the first time ever during the Tom Robinson court case.  He was also shown great respect by the black community, even though he was unable to win the court case for Tom.  This is shown by how when leaving the courtroom, the blacks up on the balcony rose, and silently respected Atticus's efforts.  They also showed their gratitude by dropped off food at Atticus's home.  He faced criticism for many, but most specifically Bob Ewell.  When Bob met him on the corner and spit in his face, it was out of hatred that Atticus would stand for a black man, which is something not many people in the town of Maycomb had the courage to do.  

Explanation:

Answer 2

Answer:

People support his actions and respect his courage. They just don't have their own courage to speak up for justice. Atticus's views towards the blacks in the community are not socially acceptable, however, so people criticize him for these "bad" attitudes or risk being lumped in with him themselves.

Explanation:

Atticus defending Tom Robinson was unacceptable in the town of Maycomb.

People respected him because he stood up for what he believed was right.

He believed that the court was the only place what provided equal justice but it didn't. He had real courage to do something that other people were scared of