The children learn right from wrong through many events in the novel, but Atticus teaches them specifically how to sympathize with others. When Scout tells Atticus that she wishes she could just be taught by him and not have to deal with the other kids, Atticus tells her that “You never really understand a person until you . . . climb into his skin and walk around in it.” The ethic of sympathy Atticus teaches Jem and Scout is what makes Atticus himself. He recognizes that people may have some bad qualities or treat others harshly, but everybody has a motive behind their actions. He admires the good in everybody while understanding and forgiving the bad.
Being able to sympathise and disregard prejudice, Atticus stands out from most people. Racial intolerance is ingrained into the social structure of Maycomb, but Atticus sees good in Tom Robinson. While defending Tom, Atticus was the subject of much scorn. Even though the general populace disapproved of Atticus’ actions, they still held high respect for him. Atticus went against the popular opinion and realized that blacks don’t always do wrong. Jem and especially Scout were probably too young to recognize it, but by Atticus defending Tom he infused a very important moral into them.
Even though Atticus is a prominent figure in Maycomb, his kids never really see him as a respectable dad in the beginning of the novel. He’s older than the other kids’ fathers, doesn’t play sports, hunt, or fish. You could even go as far as saying they were disappointed in the fact that he wasn’t as cool as the other children's’ parents. However, when Atticus takes charge and shoots Tim Johnson, the kids are amazed. They never knew that he was once an amazing shot. As they grow older, mature, and learn more about life Jem and Scout realize how great of a man Atticus is.
Even though the kids’ view of Atticus changes throughout the novel, he stays consistent with his firm beliefs in fair judgment and sympathy. Atticus is definitely a static character in this book, influencing Jem and Scout. Near the end, Atticus says that Jem looks up to him first, and that he tries to stick to his own morals so that he can look squarely back at Jem. Through Atticus’ firm parenting, Jem and Scout develop an adult moral outlook on life.
