To Kill a Mockingbird

5. Although Atticus does not want his children in court, he defends Jem’s right to know what has happened. Explain Atticus’ reasons for this. (Look at the beginning of the speech: “This is their home, sister.”

Chapter 22

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Atticus didn't want his children in court because he feared it would frighten them. The children were young, naive, and optimistic. Jem wanted to see his father at work, and he believed in him. Jem idn't just believe in the cause, he believed in Tom's innocence. He believed his father could do anything.

When Aunt Alexandra goes on a tirade, Attticus isn't going to support their presence, particularly because they disobeyed him. None-the-less, he does support awareness. He does reinforce their place as citizens of Maycomb, and their right to formulate their own opinion based upon knowledge rather than rumor. Atticus protects his children, but he doesn't raise them in a bubble.... he doesn't want them ignorant. He just wants them protected.