" I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun".
             What kinds of heroism or courage are shown in To Kill a Mockingbird?
             To Kill a Mockingbird is based a great deal on the theme of courage and heroism. It is an important element and recurring theme in the novel. It comes in both physical and mental forms, and the story could not have been as powerful without it. Harper Lee uses a diverse range of characters with strong influences such as Atticus Finch and Boo Radley, mentally courageous characters such as Mrs Dubose, and less obviously courageous characters such as Scout, to display heroism and courage through different situations, and to express her view and ideas on what they are.
             The most significant displays of courage and heroism are shown through Atticus Finch. He is the character at the centre of the theme of courage and heroism in the novel. We learn that he believes in courage more of being in mental form rather than physical when he says, "I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun." He puts this belief into action when he takes up the task of defending Tom Robinson. He goes against what is popular in the racially prejudiced town, daring to be different, and stands up for what he believes in. He knows he won't be kindly looked upon by the town's people, and he knows there may be harm and trouble in store for him and his family. He knows he has no chance of winning the case but he defends Tom anyway. When Atticus spends a night outside the jailhouse to protect Tom and is confronted by an angry mob, he stands his ground. When Bob Ewell abuses and threatens to "get" him, he doesn't back off or isn't put off defending Tom. These are bold examples of mental courage. Less significant than his display of mental courage, Atticus also di
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