"A hero is a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities" (dictionary.com). In Harper Lee’s literary classic, "To Kill A Mockingbird," protagonist Atticus Finch, demonstrates qualities and character traits of heroism. Atticus is a hero because he does what is right, is a role model to his kids and community and is not prejudiced. Atticus is a highly respected person in the town of Maycomb and inspires his children. In the eyes of his children, Atticus demonstrates that he is a hero by doing what is right even though it is difficult. For instance, when Tim Johnson, which is a rabid dog, threatens his family, he is willing to shoot and kill the dog to keep his family safe from harm although he hates guns and violence. Miss Maudie tells Jeremy “Jem” Finch and Jean Louise “Scout” Finch, “He wouldn’t shoot till he had to, and he had to today.” (Lee 112) Atticus becomes a non-traditional hero in the eyes of Jem and Scout, when he takes action to protect his family and neighbours. Atticus becomes a non-traditional hero in the eyes of Tom Robinson, a black man who is being accused of raping a white woman. Atticus makes sure that Tom Robinson receives a fair trial in the racial town of Maycomb. He believes that people should receive a fair and equitable treatment by their peers. As a lawyer and father of two children, Atticus strongly argues the big principles such as equality and duty. In the trial, he states, “I'm no idealist to believe firmly in the integrity of our courts and in the jury system-that is no ideal to me, it is a living, working reality. Gentlemen, a court is no better than each man of you sitting before me on this jury. A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision, and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty.” (233) Therefore, Atticus stands for truth and fairness and shows these heroic qualities for Tom Robinson in the trial because he knows that it is the right thing to do. In addition, Atticus exemplifies that he is a hero to his neighbors. He does what is right even though it is against his strong morals as illustrated by protecting Arthur “Boo” Radley. In the event of Jem and Scout’s attack by Robert E. “Bob” Lee Ewell, Boo killed Bob with a