Sunday, October 20, 2013

Atticus says, “Jem, see if you can stand in Bob Ewell’s shoes a minute. I destroyed his last shred of credibility at that trial, if he had any...

The Golden Rule is the Biblical principle regarding the proper way to treat one another. It states, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." In Chapter 23, Jem expresses his concerns about Bob Ewell harming Atticus, and Atticus responds by challenging Jem to stand in Bob Ewell's shoes for a minute. Atticus tells Jem that he doesn't blame Bob for his actions and is willing to allow Bob to take his anger out on him if it means saving Mayella one extra beating. Atticus's tolerant demeanor and willingness not to blame Bob for his reaction embodies the Golden Rule. Instead of judging Bob Ewell and criticizing him for his rude behavior, Atticus treats Bob the way he would want to be treated, which is without judgment or hard feelings. Atticus does not harbor hatred towards Bob after he spits in his face, but instead views the situation from Bob's point of view and sympathizes with him. 

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