Atticus knew that if a mob had come after Tom that night, that he would be outnumbered and risked being badly beaten and likely be killed. Atticus's dedication to protecting Tom was an internal decision that would not be intimidated by a group of men with bad manner, this scene shows real bravery and courage. During near the end of the novel, Atticus abides by the law and morals by agreeing with Heck Tate to lie about Bob Ewell's death to save Boo Radley. Atticus honours Boos help by saying, "Thank you for my children, Arthur" (276). This quote shows how Atticus has enough integrity to do the right thing, this courageous decision shows that he will always make the best choice in every situation. Atticus knew that exposing who killed Bob would be a brutal way to repay Boo from saving Jem and Scout. Atticus really is an iconic hero because people that do evil are not, it is those who watch the evil occur and do not act upon it. Atticus has impacted and changed people, he gave hope to the African-Americans, and he is also someone who defines courage. Furthermore, Atticus is an important attribute when examining courage in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. .
A second character who has shown courage is Scout, the protagonist. Advice and actions of others, have impacted Scouts true character. Scout does not know much of courage from the beginning of the novel, as for later on during the story she gains knowledge and maturity. During the first few pages, Scout spoke up for Walter Cunningham. Scout begins to explain to her new teacher of why he declines the offer of borrowing lunch money, saying, "The Cunninghams never took anything they can't pay back - no church baskets and no script stamps. They never took anything off of anybody, they get along on what they have. They don't have much, but they get along on it" (Lee 20). Scout being kind enough to speak on Walter's behalf shows courage, readers will start to condone Scouts ability of utilizing situations and solving them with responsibility.