Before this event, Jem and Scout looked at their father as
loving and intelligent, but weak. After learning that he has this skill, they no longer
think so. Scout wants to tell others about her father being the best shot in Maycomb,
but Jem won’t let her because, in his maturity, he understands why Atticus has hidden
this talent from the children. Atticus is not the kind of person who would be proud of
an ability which is even potentially violent
(shooting).
Atticus is not one to flaunt his abilities. It
is in his nature and his philosophy that violence is always a last resort. So, as part
of his living example to his children, he would only use a gun in extreme situations,
such as this one with the rabid dog. Atticus could easily show off his talents
(shooting, checkers and so on) but another lesson he teaches the children, central to
the trial, is that one should not do things just to please the majority or simply to
brag that he is better than other people. One should not conform just to gain
acceptance. He does what he has to – when he has to do it. Bragging (or even showing
modest pride) about a talent, especially one which inflicts violence, is completely
antithetical to Atticus’ own philosophy and the lessons he wants to teach to his
children.
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