In Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," the idea of "killing a mockingbird" symbolizes the destruction of innocence and goodness. Atticus Finch, the protagonist, believes in protecting the innocent and doing what is morally right, which often puts him at odds with the prevailing attitudes of the society in which he lives.
Those who oppose Atticus’s decision to defend Tom Robinson, an African American man falsely accused of raping a white woman, likely have a few reasons:
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Prejudice and Racism: Many characters in the novel, such as Mr. Ewell and the townspeople, hold deeply ingrained racist beliefs. They oppose Atticus because his defense of Tom challenges their views and social order. They cannot accept the idea that a black man deserves fair treatment or a chance at justice.
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Fear of Social Repercussions: Characters like Mrs. Dubose and various community members express their displeasure with Atticus. They fear that by supporting Tom, Atticus will bring shame upon himself and his family and disrupt the traditional hierarchies of Maycomb. They worry about the backlash from their peers, who may ostracize them if they condone Atticus's actions.
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Maintenance of the Status Quo: Many townspeople prefer to uphold the status quo, where white citizens maintain superiority over black citizens. Atticus’s moral stance threatens their comfort and security within a racially unjust society. They oppose his decision because it forces them to confront their own prejudices and the injustices of the legal and societal systems.
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Misunderstanding of Morality: Some individuals lack the moral insight to understand the implications of defending an innocent man. They see Atticus's actions as a betrayal of their community’s values rather than a courageous stand for justice.
Examples include the hostility that Atticus receives from the Ewell family and Bob Ewell’s aggressive actions during the trial. Additionally, when the jury convicts Tom despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence, it reflects the social norms that Atticus is challenging.
Overall, the opposition Atticus faces serves to highlight the themes of morality, justice, and the importance of standing up for what is right in the face of societal pressure.