I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It's when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do.” pg. 124.
This comment definitely has a dual meaning. In terms of the court case, we know that Atticus has had misgivings about the case from the start. He knows that Tom will be convicted based purely on his race and the color of the jury, and yet, he still doesn't give in.... he gives it his all. Atticus is ridiculed by his neighbors, and doubted by his own sister. He is a source of gossip, and in defending Tom, he also becomes a target of evil.... his children become targets. Atticus shows courage through his actions in each and every way. He shows courage in taking Tom's case, protecting Tom at the jail, questioning Bob Ewell's honor, and ignoring Bob Ewell's threats..... all because he believes in doing what is right and truthful. Like Mrs. Dubose, he knew he was licked before he started, but he did it anyway.
To Kill a Mockingbird
