When questioned why, he replies "if I didn't, I couldn't hold my head up in town.every lawyer gets at least one case in his lifetime that affects him personally. This one's mine, I guess" (pg. 100-101). While he says that every lawyer is moved by at least one case, what sets Atticus apart is his will and determination in pursuing justice without fear of the social, career and even physical damage it may cause him. It is evident that Atticus is brave, but his bravery also directly contributes to and correlates with his personal integrity. The fact that he is able to take a firm stance on this Tom Robinson case solidifies his personal character; Atticus is a just man who believes in equality. Courage is the instrument for him to act through and integrity is his motivation to act at all. Without the courage to practice, solidify and nurture his foundational principles, integrity would be a futile quality. It is Atticus's ability to display his integrity through his actions that makes him such a transparent and honest individual held in high esteem. As a testament to this, the Finch neighbour, Mrs. Maudie, remarks, "Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets" (pg. 61). Overall, Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson required courage and helped strengthen his moral identity.
Another significant event that helps us understand Harper Lee's ideas regarding courage and integrity is when a mad dog named Tim Johnson was found to be roaming the Finch street. Tim's rabies made him an imminent danger to all neighbours and his situation had to be handled promptly. The Maycomb Sheriff, Mr. Heck Tate, urged Atticus to shoot the dog. Under pressure to pull the trigger and put the dog to rest in one blow, Atticus delivered by ending the dog's life with one shot to the head. This event is symbolic of a much more abstract idea in which Harper Lee comments on Atticus's character, his role and the people of Maycomb.
