What is the theme of the compassion in To Kill a Mockingbird?

One primary example of the theme of compassion in To Kill a Mockingbird is the way Atticus interacts with and helps her while she is dying. For all of the degrading things she said to Atticus and his children, Atticus showed forgiveness, and even sent Jem to read to her during her final days. Rather than resent the old woman, Atticus related to her illness, her addiction, and her emtional state.... affording her compassion instead of disdain.