Although I must say that Atticus is a great parent to both Jem and Scout, but it is obvious that Atticus has not always been there for the both of them and cannot nuture the same way a mother can. It even states in the novel that Scout says that she found her father "satisfactory" and "treated [them] with courteous detachment." (6). They also lack a motherly figure, but Calpurnia kind of fills the need of one. But Atticus did bring up very honest, mature children who always have good intentions in their mistakes.
I found picture on google a while back and I thought that it reminded me of Jem and Scout: http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/2x3589718/Young_boy_and_girl_playing_with_a_football_in_a_LV0032001b.jpg
I have a "thought provoking question", as well: Why does Jem start to mature and become and independent and neglects his sister in part 2?
As Calpurnia hinted at by calling him "Mister," Jem is beginning to inherit the responsibilities of adulthood. In fact, in some cultures, once a boy is thirteen he now carries the responsibility of feeding the family. I, however, believe that Jem does not neglect his sister, but is instead perceived that way by a young Scout. He is maturing and tells Scout what to do. Jem is just having trouble expressing his care on the same level Scout does.
I think Jem is maturing because he is getting older. Getting older, you start to drop kid things and start thinking like an adult. This meant stop depending on his father or Calpurnia and start to become more independent.He neglects Scout because she is still a child and does not understand what Jem is going through. All these things are a vital part of growing up.
I think it's because Jem is maturing and is starting to see things through a different perspective. Although a 4 year age gap isn't much, its starting to become a lot more than it seems which leads to clashing personalities between the 2 siblings. Jem is starting to realize that sometimes, you just have to do things on your own which is a key part of growing up.
I think it's because Jem has more to think about now. He is puzzled by Boo radley's kindness to them, and is frustrated by Mrs.dubose. He wants to be free of her, now that she is dead, but realizes that she has left her opinions(about racism) behind, and those thinga will never go away. Scout doesnt. underatand because she is young, but jemm OS maturing and also sees that he and scout are not on the same level(mentally) anymore.
i think that Atticus handles his role a a single parent okay i suppose. Like what Carlo had said, he wasnt always there for Scout and Jem but has has Cal to fill in everything else Atticus has left out. But when he is actually parenting, he is good at it. Unlike normal parents where they just tell their kids what to do, Atticus, more like teaches them what is the right thing to do.He passes on the things he had learned to his kids, like the idea of equality. He may not always be there for them, but for a single parent, i think he is very admired by his kids.
to sum up, again, Atticus takes on his role as a single parent really well. He is a kind and loving person and tries to give comfort to Scout and Jem whenever he can. what any good parent would do.
I agree with Austin on how he thinks how Atticus is not a normal parent where they just tell their kids what to do but instead Atticus relies on Scout and Jem to independently make their own decisions and trusts them enough to make good ones.
I agree with you that Atticus does try very hard to be a good parent. There are times, nevertheless, when Atticus is being to easy on his children. He should take elements of Scout's Aunt's advice and not allow Jem and Scout so much liberty in behavior. For example, he calls Scout's cussing a "phase." This seems to me somewhat too lenient. Atticus and the Aunt are on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of parenting, and Atticus needs to demonstrate the authority that he has let his children ignore.
Being a single parent is hard, though I have no experience, I know that taking on the job of two people tacking on the role of being a father and a mother is very difficult. Technically thinking he is not raising the children by himself, he has Calpurnia, their cook, and wonderful neighbors like Miss Maudie. So far, Atticus has been doing a great job though. He is always there giving good advice and making sure that the children are raised in house of good morals and love. This shows in the children immensely they always know how to be respectful to adults and they are very intelligent. However, Atticus is not the perfect father because he spends most of the time in the office, working when he should be home his family. Atticus is a hard working father who truly has one goal in life, which is to support and love his family to the best of his abilities. Bellow is a picture of a father and his chid holding hands depicting their close bond and love for eachother which is much similar to the relationship shared between Atticus and his children: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WBl_jy10I4Y/TdnAdA50XII/AAAAAAAACyo/1i6XsFNbSjU/s1600/father+and+child+silhouette2.jpg Thought provoking question: Why do Jem and Scout call their father by his first name “Atticus”?
Although I very much agree of your opinion that taking on the role as both mother and father can be very difficult, I don't think it makes him any less than any other father when he works in the office because even when he works long and tedious hours, he is still very poor and he has to provide for himself, Jem, Scout and pay Calpurnia, so I think that he actually does have to work those hours to get the money he needs. But I do like your question and I am also curious about why Jem and Scout call their father "Atticus".
I agree that Atticus is working really hard to raise his children and still provide them with everything necessary. But, I do think sometimes he should take some time to play with his children who are quickly growing up.
I think that Jem and Scout call their father 'Atticus' because of the gap in between them. Though Atticus does teach them about morals and is helping to guide them towards the right direction, he lacks the love and compassion of a parent. He's too busy with his work, and his age certainly doesn't help either. Jem and Scout really respect Atticus, but aren't exactly close to him- there's a lot about him that they don't know or understand.
I agree with Austin because even though he can only do so much as a single parent, he still works as best as he can to adjust as a dad but still teaching Jem and Scout his thoughts, point of views, and his love for them in a less obvious way.
In my opinion, Atticus attempt to be the best parent he can. He allows his children to explore and satisfy their curiosity and still provides a shoulder for the kids to cry on. Many times, single parents struggle to cope with children when they have no support from a partner. Atticus, as a father, tries to fulfill the hole that not having a mother creates. This strategy itself does have problems. Having to support two children mentally and financially, Atticus found a balance between the two. This results, however, in a lack of time that he gets to spend with his family as he spends most of his time at work as a lawyer.
Here's a picture I thought conveyed this "hole" best : http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1280&bih=619&tbm=isch&tbnid=g3MIAFDh-v4gbM:&imgrefurl=http://www.medimanage.com/mykidshealth/articles/be-good-single-parent.aspx&docid=0gJFYQkFmocF4M&imgurl=http://www.medimanage.com/Images/Single%252520parent.jpg&w=500&h=333&ei=wNAYT-OkFeKXiALZgZ3WCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=709&vpy=153&dur=467&hovh=183&hovw=275&tx=156&ty=102&sig=114590397733044204596&page=1&tbnh=130&tbnw=168&start=0&ndsp=18&ved=1t:429,r:3,s:0
Is Dill happy overall with his life as a boy without a steady home?
I think he is only happy because he truly does not grasp the idea that his home is not ideal. He is only a kid, which means that it is not the most important thing he needs to think about. But, I believe in the future he may have some troubled times, because he did not grow up in a steady home.
I think that Dill is only happy on the surface- he still has fun as a kid. However, it's different on the inside; deep down there's an unfulfilled longing for a loving family and home. There's a gap within that prevents him from becoming truly happy, no matter how much he tries to ignore his internal feelings by drowning himself in the exhilaration of shallow happiness.
i agree with you, rudy but i just have a point to make: sometimes the best you can do just isn't good enough. Also, i think dill tries to make he best with what he has, he has scout and jem and he has fun with them, and enjoys them while he can.
It is quite true that he does not have much time to spend with his family due to the amount of work that he must do. However, being a single father is not as you say, a "strategy." This way of life is not chosen but received whether you like it or not. As a parent, Atticus then needs to cope and advance as a father. Dill, as a child, cannot stand the declination of attention from his parents, which eventually entails that he thinks that they do not like him around, causing him to run off, unhappy with his family.
I think in many ways Atticus is a great father as a single parent, he raised really smart and respectful children but like Carlo said he isn't always there for his children like a mother would be. With the job of a lawyer Atticus doesn't always have a lot of time for Jem and Scout which gives them a little too much freedom. Atticus doesn't show he cares as a mother would, making Scout not call his father "father" but refer to him as Atticus.
I partially agree with Rudy, however i feel that we need to take into consideration the job he has as a lawyer, one that requires alot of hard work and effort. Aside from the trouble of having to defend a black man in court (especially during this time period) I find it extremely hard to also keep up with your children as a single parent. Taking this into consideration, i think Atticus is a responsible parent to both Jem and Scout.
I agree because with a job like being a lawyer, its definitely time consuming and stressful. Especially with the Tom Robinson case coming up soon that Atticus is determined to win.
I believe Atticus does a great job of raising Jem and Scout in the absence of a female in the house. I think this is why Atticus hires Calpurnia as a maid. Scout even mentions that Calpurnia was a motherly figure. I think Atticus does the best he can with what hes has. He tries this hardest to have Jem and Scout grow up normally without a mother.
i agree with Frank, Calpurnia is there with the Finch just to kinda take on the role as a mother. She acts like one and even seems like one from the novel.
I agree with Austin who agrees with Frank. Atticus tries hard and because he is the real father, he gets credit for raising his kids. He is the icon/figurehead of the family. However, behind the scenes, Calpurnia is the motherly figure that is taking care of the children.
Although Atticus has done a fine job in raising Scout(teaching her to read before she starts school) and Jem, there is definitely room for improvement; but hey nobody's perfect. Even though there is no motherly figure available in this children's lives, he makes do and fills that hole with Calpurnia and overtime his sister, Aunt Alexandria. Towards Jem and Scout, he gives them freedom, yet he is strict. He may not be like all the other dads in Maycomb County; however his children have great respect for him and couldn't love them more than they already do.
I the way that Atticus handles his role of single parenting is quite impressive because he provides Jem and Scout with their necessities while paying for Calpurnia. One problem with him is that he doesn't look at the details that a motherly figure would look at. He doesn't seem to care how Scout isn't like a girl or how his two children want a parent to play with. I feel like he could maybe take off some of his time to play with his kids who are growing to quickly. He should take advantage of their young age because once they're older they might not really pay attention to Atticus. He needs a stronger relationship with his children because it just seems like he has no time for them. He could use the time with them rather than being extra generous to other people and helping them. Other than the personal, stronger bond he should keep, he seems like he's doing everything he can. For the motherly figure he hired Calpurnia. He also makes sure there's a roof over their heads and food on the table. He's not only there but he teaches Scout and Jem life morals. As a single parent he is juggling his duties really well.
I think that Atticus is handling fatherhood rather well, but that's different from single parenthood. Being a single parent means that the parent has to fulfill the responsibilities of both parents. I think he has done a good job of raising Jem and Scout to be obedient, knowledgable kids. Atticus did all things a dad does; he "played with them, read to the them and treated them with courteous detachment" (6). However, the one aspect of a single parent that Atticus is missing is the role of a mother. This is where Calpurnia steps in. Scout could remember her "tyrannical presence ever since she could remember" (7). If Atticus was a bit more strict, and disciplined the children more, he'd have a good grip at being a single parent!
Atticus really does try to do his best in raising Scout and Jem, but he lacks the compassion and love of a mother. Scout and Jem are rather distant to Atticus, feeling that he is a satisfactory parent but not as close as parents usually are. Atticus is a lot older than other children's parents, which distances him from Scout and Jem even further because he's more feeble and mature. Atticus does a good job in the sense of raising his children to understand right from wrong, but it's as if there is a deep abyss separating him from them. He doesn't interact with them as much; he really just oversees them from above, giving them more freedom to do what they want. Even though Atticus is an okay father, there still needs to be someone else to fill in the empty gap that he leaves within his relationship with the children, and that is Calpurnia. She plays a major role in the lives of Scout and Jem, filling in for their deceased mother and caring for them as if they were her own. She scolds them for their mistakes yet spoils them with treats, giving them the love and compassion of a mother.
Here's a picture that grasps the idea of a family where the working father has no time to play with the children; the mother does this in his place instead:
I agree with your opinion of how there is a certain distance between the children and Atticus. Atticus is more of an "overly large figure", not exactly a god, but closer to that than their father. He is someone they look up to, and try to impress. However, instead of trying to impress their father, they should instead be able to talk face-face and eye-eye on subjects to give them more of a personal relationship; which they lack.
I think that Atticus is handling his role as a single parent very well. He does not neglect them to pursue his own pleasures, and he does not indulge/spoil them either. He teaches them what is right and what is wrong, and acts as a mentor. Atticus tries hard. As a single parent, he cannot be with his children all the time, so instead he found someone capable to take care of them. That was the right thing to do.
I believe Atticus handles his role as a parent very good. He's a good father to Jem and Scout. He teaches them life lessons and whats right and wrong, but he does not really show any affection to Jem and Scout like a mother would do. Atticus hardly spends time with them and is always working while other parents usually have closer and tighter bonds with their kids. So he lets Calpurnia do the motherly duties. Also Atticus lacks the understanding and compassion towards his children.
I agree with what Jeremy said because since atticus did not remarry, he chose the second best option available:to find a trustworthy person to take care of his children. That was very smart.
I agree with what Jeremy said and I think Atticus is doing very WELL as a single father. He has to deal with stress from the people in Maycomb and run a family.
When you love someone, you tend to do whats best for them. i think atticus really does love his kids although he may not be the affectionate and show it. Right now, i thin he is doing the best for his kids, although he may be teaching them some harsh life lessons early, they will be more mature and have a clearer view of what life really is.
I think that Atticus' determination to be a great father for his children is impressive as a single parent. It's harder for Atticus to raise Scout since she doesn't have a motherly figure, but he already taught her how to read, behave, and more. However, I feel that Atticus has room for more improvement. As a lawyer, he's usually really busy throughout the day, leaving no time for him to bond with his children. Sometimes, it seems that all the children need is more attention and care, but because of Atticus' busy schedule, they don't receive that. He has a difficult time expressing his love for his children and being compassionate towards them. He comes home, eats dinner, has a small talk with Jem and Scout, and then gets lost in his reading or his arguments with Aunt Alexandra. However, since the children don't have a mother, Calpurnia is their motherly figure since she disciplines them, but also comforts them when needed.
PICTURE: http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1278&bih=627&tbm=isch&tbnid=yuBtWyYk9413EM:&imgrefurl=http://muslimmatters.org/2007/04/28/feeling-the-love/&docid=e-wMmD2Bd7Y8QM&imgurl=http://muslimmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/parentchild.jpg&w=384&h=369&ei=LPkYT8PeNMebiAKYmI3lCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=485&vpy=137&dur=974&hovh=220&hovw=229&tx=75&ty=106&sig=106043642945768839415&page=1&tbnh=135&tbnw=142&start=0&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0 I think the picture looks like the child is tugging at the parent, but the parent won't budge. It's like how Jem or Scout tugs for Atticus' attention but he's too distracted.
I agree with your opinion of how Atticus is always away at work, or arguing with Aunt Alexandria, not leaving any time left for his children. A big part of bonding in a family is spending time together, and Scout and Jem lack that sort of bond with Atticus.
I agree with what you said about Calpurnia, but I feel that Atticus still tries the best he can. Although he can go straight to his work and leave the children with Calpurnia and Aunt Alexandria, he still takes time to talk to them, and tuck Scout into bed at night. He takes personal time to help them with their problems, like for example when he took time to say nice things to that mean lady that said mean things to the children.
Although I agree that Atticus did not place enough of his attention on his his children due to his work and being lost into his reading, its difficult for him to manage, as he doesn't follow the "rules" of parenting as many do. To be a great parent isn't as easy as most would expect it to be: children also have their own thoughts. If you were a single parent and had to work, what would you do?
I believe that Atticus is a very good parent to Scout and Jem. He is a straight-forward, frank human being who sticks to his morals, no matter what the majority supports. However, as Scout said "...Atticus was only a man. It takes a woman to do that kind of work" (134). Scout was aware that Atticus was doing his best as a single parent. However, there are certain roles in a family life that only a mother could fill. Atticus provides them with the mentor role as their father; one they can go to when they have problems in their lives. However, Atticus does not provide them the warm, caring love of a mother; One that dotes on the children, cooks home-made meals for them, and pampers them. Scout and Jem were raised very practically by Atticus. However, the emotional support that they need from a mother is missing from their lives. A picture that I thought represented this: http://www.singledadcookbook.co.uk/assets/images/JohnLenahan_single_dad_med.jpg
A thought provoking question: Do you think that Calpurnia's reason for speaking "nigger-talk" at her church is reasonable? If so, why?
I agree with Michelle because I feel like though Atticus is a good father, he can only do so much as half of a parenting duo; he's aware Scout and Jem need a motherly figure in their lives to nurture their minds and souls in a feminine point of view, not just a masculine way of thinking.
I really consider to be a single parent even though he is. Calpurnia to me should also be considered a parent. She teaches them morals and etiquette and teaches them what's right and what is wrong. Atticus is a great father but i really don't consider him as a single parent While Atticus is of at work Calpurnia takes care and feeds jem scout and dill. she takes jem and scout to church and acts as a motherly figure.
I feel that Atticus handles his role as a single parent as best as he can. Atticus cannot be there all the time for this children because of his demanding job and old age. However, he does not have to be with and take care of his children all of the time. There is an alternative to that situation as Calpurnia, the housemaid comes into play. Atticus knows that Calpurnia can take over for him, so he can relax and read or work as a lawyer. Also, Atticus is lenient and understanding of his children. Even when Jem or Scout talks back or does not obey instructions, Atticus does not give them physical punishment. Overall, even though Atticus cannot be there with his children all the time, he handles his role as a single parent well. The picture describes Atticus because he is working and does not have much time for Scout and Jem. http://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_570/1293867073Dj8q57.jpg Question: Why does the author use Calpurnia as the motherly figure instead of creating a mom?
I agree with you when you talk about Calpurnia as a motherly figure. I think that Atticus knew that he needed a female presence in the house for Jem and Scout to grow up normally.
I agree with you about saying that the absence of physical punishment is positive because I feel that in that way he gets to know his children better and truly understand their intentions and inner thoughts.
In the course of the novel so far, I feel that whether or not they had a positive affect, Atticus' actions had the right intention and meaning. As a single father with a controversial job, he could have easily taken his stress out on his children, or completely immersed himself in his work. However, even at the hardest situations, he stayed calm and did his best to protect his children and to guide them in the right direction. I feel that although sometimes his actions may not be the best, his heart and reason for doing so is completely innocent and positive. All he's trying to do is be the best father he can be in replacement of their deceased mother. Atticus always put the children first and took time out of his tiring day to spend time with each of them and get to know them personally. He allows the children, especially Scout, to be their own person and have the freedom to truly find themselves without limitations. Although he knows Scout shouldn't have an air gun as a girl, he buys it for her because it makes her happy. Even if it means getting scolded by other people, he just wants his children to be happy and content as long as it doesn't hurt them. He doesn't just ignore and make nothing out of Scout's innocent questions, but takes time to explain it to her so that she understands. I find Atticus's intentions very admirable.
http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2006/12/05/movies/05smith.533.jpgv this picture reminds me of Scout and Atticus a lot.
I think that Atticus is a very wise father who is a good role model. He can't always be there for his children, but he handles it as best he can, after all- he is a single parent raising two kids. He gives them good life lessons and tries to teach them as best he can. Atticus teaches them the important things in life, for example - to look inside a person before you judge. This shows that he wants to raise his children to do what's right, and to look inside people's hearts before judging. He raised them up to be children who do not care only about the materials/appearances, but rather the deeper things in life that truly matter. Atticus honestly tries the best he can with his two children.
I believe that Atticus, as a single parent, has been doing a good job however, I feel Atticus still has potential to be a better single parent. First of all, I feel that considering Atticus’s circumstances and the issues he has to deal with on a daily basis, he does somewhat fulfill his duties as a single father. Despite facing prejudice cases, protecting his clientele, and enduring countless rumors and insults from his fellow neighbors, Atticus manages to set aside some time for Jem and Scout. For example, when Scout explains to Atticus how her first day of school went, noticing that his daughter was disappointed with her curriculum, Atticus promises her that they would still read together as they always have. Atticus also handles his job as a single parent quite well by keeping Calpurnia in the house in order to provide his children with a close replica of a mother’s love. When Aunt Alexandra tells Atticus to get rid of Calpurnia, due to the fact that they do not need her anymore, Atticus refuses and decides to retain her. While Atticus has his strengths as a single parent, he has a few weaknesses as well. One major flaw in Atticus’s handling of being a single parent is his affection towards Jem. At the end of chapter 15, the novel mentions how Atticus massaged Jem’s hair with his hand; a gesture of affection seen after a long time. Atticus’s age should not hold him back from fully expressing his love towards his children and should instead, motivate him to spend as much time with them as they can. Overall, Atticus has been satisfactory in terms of being a single parent however a few steps can be taken on his part in order to become the best father he can be. The following picture relates to how commendable it is that Atticus makes an honest effort to balance his family and civic duty in his life.
i believe that atticus is a good father in the sense that he didn't neglect his children, he taught them how to read and he teaches them morals. but, can he take it to the next level? what he lacks is affection, he refuses to teach jem and scout how to shoot a gun and also doesn't want to play foot ball with gem. so he is more of a "legal guardian" rather than a father. as jem and scout start to mature and grow up they notice the behavior of other fathers around maycomb, and they can't help but wonder, "why is atticus so different". the fact that gem and scout call their father by his first name already says a lot. i think he is really missing out on his children's childhood, and he may regret it later in life. i don't believe that atticus is just a single parent, he has the help of calpurina whom they all respect just like a mother. Besides doing all the housework, calpurnia really takes on some of the mothering duties.
a video clip that reflect the mothering duties that calpurnia takes on: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H50llsHm3k
thought provoking question: what quality about scout makes mr cunningham and his gang leave before they attack tom robinson?
I disagree with you when you say Atticus is neglecting his children and missing out on their life, when his children don't feel well are are upset he is always there for them when he can, like when Scout wanted to quit school. If not, he makes sure that someone is there for them to teach them right thing. I also know people who grew up calling their parents by their first name--for them, it doesn't have anything to do with how close they are with their parents, they still have a tight relationship. The name-calling thing is just what they are accustomed in using. In addition, I know people who call their parents 'mom' and 'dad', yet they do not have a close relationship. So really, it depends.
I think that Atticus won't teach them to shoot a gun because he feels that there are more important stuff he needs to teach them, and he instructs them to only shoot tins and bluejays, it is not like he hands them a gun and lets them go free. He gives them boundaries and while providing financially for his kids, he also sets time aside to teach them about integrity. Teaching them to shoot a gun is simply not h is place.
As a single father, Atticus does the best he can to support Scout and Jem, physically and emotionally. He does a pretty good job as parent on his own, bringing enough food to the table and giving his children kindness and support and love. But I feel like Atticus does lack some attention-giving towards Jem and Scout because being a single father, he tends to not show too much emotion towards them and often leaving them to their own independence and choices. As a father without a mother as a partner in supporting a family, that may be one of the reasons why he tends to leave his kids in more of a independent, brave living style. But nevertheless, he still keeps this in mind and has Calpurnia be sort of the "motherly figure" in their lives because he probably realizes that every child needs the nurture of a mother to help them grow.
yes agree with you and I also think that though he lets them develop more independently, he still keeps in mind important values they should hold, like even if Scout developed into a tomboy, she is still taught important lessons on integrity.
Being a single parent is not simple; you have to raise and take care of your children, work well in your career, deal with enemies and mean people that may came with it, and all the while keep your sanity. Atticus, as a single parent, has faced many challenges of parenting; his method of doing so does not conform to the way that the community parents their own children. Even in light of their disapproval, he continues to parent just the way that he has because he feels that it is fine the way it is. However, to cope with being a single parent, Atticus also allowed Calpurnia to parent his children as well, so that he wouldn't be taking care of his children by himself. Many times, he tries teaching his children morals and lessons of how to do better in life, such as teaching what not to do, like "Don't kick folks" (204), Scout that "you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view" (39). Because he has given his children so much freedom to do what they want to do, Aunt Alexandra believed that Atticus did not restrict his children the way that she thinks that most people should, leading her to eventually move to Atticus's house, where she would make his children the way she thinks that they should be. To do this, however, Aunt Alexandra attempts to "improve" the household of things or people that she believes that they don't need, such as Calpurnia, which greatly angers Atticus. Being a single parent may be quite difficult, but Atticus remains to be a wise man and a beloved father by his children, who regard him dearly.
I believe that Atticus is really a good parent and handles the fact that he is a "single" parent well. He tries to teach to Jem and Scour the morals in life and gives them the life lessons that help them grow as people. And, most importantly, he never forced the ideals and morals upon his children. Often times, parents have to make deals or force their children into doing the right thing, but Atticus was different. He let Jem and Scout roam freely and make their own decisions, but at the same time gave them tiny nudges towards the "right" path. The one thing he is not able to do is talk to Scout about dresses and womanly manners and ideals, but, he also had that department covered since the children were tiny: Calpurnia. Cal was always there to be the mother that Jem and Scout never really had. I feel like although Atticus was the only blood-related parent, he wasn't parenting single-handedly because he had the help of Calpurnia. All in all, Atticus seems to have done an incredible job raising two children who love him dearly, but not as the only parent figure, because Calpurnia was always right behind him in helping Jem and Scout make the right decisions.
As a single parent, Atticus does the best he can with Scout and Jem. Atticus is not particularly a normal parent in many ways. He does his best teach them morals and does give Jem and Scout freedom. Atticus does not lay a hand on either Jem or Scout when they do something wrong. As he said to his brother, Jack,"So far I've been able to get by with threats"(116). He doesn't inflict any pain but simply talks to them when they do something wrong. Also, the difference between him and normal parent is that he tells them anything they ask him as best as he could. For example, one day Scout asked," What's rape"(180). As Rachel mentioned about, Atticus does not talk to Scout about how to be a women or anything in that category, but he does have Calpurnia which makes his life much easier. Calpurnia is a motherly figure toward Jem and Scout. For example, she inflict table manners on Scout when Walter Cunningham was over at the Finches' house,"That boy's yo' comp'ny and if wants to eat up the table cloth you let him, you hear(32). Overall, Atticus is a wonderful parent as a single parent, although, he's a "single" parent he does have Calpurnia.
Atticus has Calpurnia help him, and though he's not always there for Jem and Scout he tries his best. He knows that even though they don't have a mother it's important to teach them the right morals and values that their parents are supposed to teach them. He also knows that though he has a job, his children comes first and he needs to learn to juggle his responsibilities.
I forgot to add that though he allows his kids to develop independently and they are allowed lots of freedom, the most important values like integrity and self esteem are still taught, and what he can't do Calpurnia almost always makes up for
Although I must say that Atticus is a great parent to both Jem and Scout, but it is obvious that Atticus has not always been there for the both of them and cannot nuture the same way a mother can. It even states in the novel that Scout says that she found her father "satisfactory" and "treated [them] with courteous detachment." (6). They also lack a motherly figure, but Calpurnia kind of fills the need of one. But Atticus did bring up very honest, mature children who always have good intentions in their mistakes.
ReplyDeleteI found picture on google a while back and I thought that it reminded me of Jem and Scout:
http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/2x3589718/Young_boy_and_girl_playing_with_a_football_in_a_LV0032001b.jpg
I have a "thought provoking question", as well: Why does Jem start to mature and become and independent and neglects his sister in part 2?
As Calpurnia hinted at by calling him "Mister," Jem is beginning to inherit the responsibilities of adulthood. In fact, in some cultures, once a boy is thirteen he now carries the responsibility of feeding the family. I, however, believe that Jem does not neglect his sister, but is instead perceived that way by a young Scout. He is maturing and tells Scout what to do. Jem is just having trouble expressing his care on the same level Scout does.
DeleteI think Jem is maturing because he is getting older. Getting older, you start to drop kid things and start thinking like an adult. This meant stop depending on his father or Calpurnia and start to become more independent.He neglects Scout because she is still a child and does not understand what Jem is going through. All these things are a vital part of growing up.
DeleteI think it's because Jem is maturing and is starting to see things through a different perspective. Although a 4 year age gap isn't much, its starting to become a lot more than it seems which leads to clashing personalities between the 2 siblings. Jem is starting to realize that sometimes, you just have to do things on your own which is a key part of growing up.
DeleteI think it's because Jem has more to think about now. He is puzzled by Boo radley's kindness to them, and is frustrated by Mrs.dubose. He wants to be free of her, now that she is dead, but realizes that she has left her opinions(about racism) behind, and those thinga will never go away. Scout doesnt. underatand because she is young, but jemm OS maturing and also sees that he and scout are not on the same level(mentally) anymore.
Deletei think that Atticus handles his role a a single parent okay i suppose. Like what Carlo had said, he wasnt always there for Scout and Jem but has has Cal to fill in everything else Atticus has left out. But when he is actually parenting, he is good at it. Unlike normal parents where they just tell their kids what to do, Atticus, more like teaches them what is the right thing to do.He passes on the things he had learned to his kids, like the idea of equality. He may not always be there for them, but for a single parent, i think he is very admired by his kids.
ReplyDeleteto sum up, again, Atticus takes on his role as a single parent really well. He is a kind and loving person and tries to give comfort to Scout and Jem whenever he can. what any good parent would do.
I agree with Austin on how he thinks how Atticus is not a normal parent where they just tell their kids what to do but instead Atticus relies on Scout and Jem to independently make their own decisions and trusts them enough to make good ones.
DeleteI agree with you that Atticus does try very hard to be a good parent. There are times, nevertheless, when Atticus is being to easy on his children. He should take elements of Scout's Aunt's advice and not allow Jem and Scout so much liberty in behavior. For example, he calls Scout's cussing a "phase." This seems to me somewhat too lenient. Atticus and the Aunt are on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of parenting, and Atticus needs to demonstrate the authority that he has let his children ignore.
DeleteBeing a single parent is hard, though I have no experience, I know that taking on the job of two people tacking on the role of being a father and a mother is very difficult. Technically thinking he is not raising the children by himself, he has Calpurnia, their cook, and wonderful neighbors like Miss Maudie. So far, Atticus has been doing a great job though. He is always there giving good advice and making sure that the children are raised in house of good morals and love. This shows in the children immensely they always know how to be respectful to adults and they are very intelligent. However, Atticus is not the perfect father because he spends most of the time in the office, working when he should be home his family. Atticus is a hard working father who truly has one goal in life, which is to support and love his family to the best of his abilities.
DeleteBellow is a picture of a father and his chid holding hands depicting their close bond and love for eachother which is much similar to the relationship shared between Atticus and his children:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WBl_jy10I4Y/TdnAdA50XII/AAAAAAAACyo/1i6XsFNbSjU/s1600/father+and+child+silhouette2.jpg
Thought provoking question: Why do Jem and Scout call their father by his first name “Atticus”?
Although I very much agree of your opinion that taking on the role as both mother and father can be very difficult, I don't think it makes him any less than any other father when he works in the office because even when he works long and tedious hours, he is still very poor and he has to provide for himself, Jem, Scout and pay Calpurnia, so I think that he actually does have to work those hours to get the money he needs. But I do like your question and I am also curious about why Jem and Scout call their father "Atticus".
DeleteI agree that Atticus is working really hard to raise his children and still provide them with everything necessary. But, I do think sometimes he should take some time to play with his children who are quickly growing up.
DeleteI think that Jem and Scout call their father 'Atticus' because of the gap in between them. Though Atticus does teach them about morals and is helping to guide them towards the right direction, he lacks the love and compassion of a parent. He's too busy with his work, and his age certainly doesn't help either. Jem and Scout really respect Atticus, but aren't exactly close to him- there's a lot about him that they don't know or understand.
DeleteI agree with Austin because even though he can only do so much as a single parent, he still works as best as he can to adjust as a dad but still teaching Jem and Scout his thoughts, point of views, and his love for them in a less obvious way.
DeleteIn my opinion, Atticus attempt to be the best parent he can. He allows his children to explore and satisfy their curiosity and still provides a shoulder for the kids to cry on. Many times, single parents struggle to cope with children when they have no support from a partner. Atticus, as a father, tries to fulfill the hole that not having a mother creates. This strategy itself does have problems. Having to support two children mentally and financially, Atticus found a balance between the two. This results, however, in a lack of time that he gets to spend with his family as he spends most of his time at work as a lawyer.
ReplyDeleteHere's a picture I thought conveyed this "hole" best :
http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1280&bih=619&tbm=isch&tbnid=g3MIAFDh-v4gbM:&imgrefurl=http://www.medimanage.com/mykidshealth/articles/be-good-single-parent.aspx&docid=0gJFYQkFmocF4M&imgurl=http://www.medimanage.com/Images/Single%252520parent.jpg&w=500&h=333&ei=wNAYT-OkFeKXiALZgZ3WCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=709&vpy=153&dur=467&hovh=183&hovw=275&tx=156&ty=102&sig=114590397733044204596&page=1&tbnh=130&tbnw=168&start=0&ndsp=18&ved=1t:429,r:3,s:0
Is Dill happy overall with his life as a boy without a steady home?
I think he is only happy because he truly does not grasp the idea that his home is not ideal. He is only a kid, which means that it is not the most important thing he needs to think about. But, I believe in the future he may have some troubled times, because he did not grow up in a steady home.
DeleteI think Dill tries not to think about his situation. He's seem like a kid that wants to just look at the positive. He knows his problem to an extent.
DeleteI think that Dill is only happy on the surface- he still has fun as a kid. However, it's different on the inside; deep down there's an unfulfilled longing for a loving family and home. There's a gap within that prevents him from becoming truly happy, no matter how much he tries to ignore his internal feelings by drowning himself in the exhilaration of shallow happiness.
Deletei agree with you, rudy but i just have a point to make: sometimes the best you can do just isn't good enough. Also, i think dill tries to make he best with what he has, he has scout and jem and he has fun with them, and enjoys them while he can.
DeleteIt is quite true that he does not have much time to spend with his family due to the amount of work that he must do. However, being a single father is not as you say, a "strategy." This way of life is not chosen but received whether you like it or not. As a parent, Atticus then needs to cope and advance as a father. Dill, as a child, cannot stand the declination of attention from his parents, which eventually entails that he thinks that they do not like him around, causing him to run off, unhappy with his family.
DeleteI think in many ways Atticus is a great father as a single parent, he raised really smart and respectful children but like Carlo said he isn't always there for his children like a mother would be. With the job of a lawyer Atticus doesn't always have a lot of time for Jem and Scout which gives them a little too much freedom. Atticus doesn't show he cares as a mother would, making Scout not call his father "father" but refer to him as Atticus.
ReplyDeleteI partially agree with Rudy, however i feel that we need to take into consideration the job he has as a lawyer, one that requires alot of hard work and effort. Aside from the trouble of having to defend a black man in court (especially during this time period) I find it extremely hard to also keep up with your children as a single parent. Taking this into consideration, i think Atticus is a responsible parent to both Jem and Scout.
ReplyDeleteI agree because with a job like being a lawyer, its definitely time consuming and stressful. Especially with the Tom Robinson case coming up soon that Atticus is determined to win.
DeleteI believe Atticus does a great job of raising Jem and Scout in the absence of a female in the house. I think this is why Atticus hires Calpurnia as a maid. Scout even mentions that Calpurnia was a motherly figure. I think Atticus does the best he can with what hes has. He tries this hardest to have Jem and Scout grow up normally without a mother.
ReplyDeletei agree with Frank, Calpurnia is there with the Finch just to kinda take on the role as a mother.
ReplyDeleteShe acts like one and even seems like one from the novel.
I agree with Austin who agrees with Frank. Atticus tries hard and because he is the real father, he gets credit for raising his kids. He is the icon/figurehead of the family. However, behind the scenes, Calpurnia is the motherly figure that is taking care of the children.
DeleteAlthough Atticus has done a fine job in raising Scout(teaching her to read before she starts school) and Jem, there is definitely room for improvement; but hey nobody's perfect. Even though there is no motherly figure available in this children's lives, he makes do and fills that hole with Calpurnia and overtime his sister, Aunt Alexandria. Towards Jem and Scout, he gives them freedom, yet he is strict. He may not be like all the other dads in Maycomb County; however his children have great respect for him and couldn't love them more than they already do.
ReplyDeletehttp://winecountrymom.blogs.santarosamom.com/files/2010/05/single-parent1.jpg
Why do you think that Scout and Aunt Alexandria don't get along very well?
I the way that Atticus handles his role of single parenting is quite impressive because he provides Jem and Scout with their necessities while paying for Calpurnia. One problem with him is that he doesn't look at the details that a motherly figure would look at. He doesn't seem to care how Scout isn't like a girl or how his two children want a parent to play with. I feel like he could maybe take off some of his time to play with his kids who are growing to quickly. He should take advantage of their young age because once they're older they might not really pay attention to Atticus. He needs a stronger relationship with his children because it just seems like he has no time for them. He could use the time with them rather than being extra generous to other people and helping them. Other than the personal, stronger bond he should keep, he seems like he's doing everything he can. For the motherly figure he hired Calpurnia. He also makes sure there's a roof over their heads and food on the table. He's not only there but he teaches Scout and Jem life morals. As a single parent he is juggling his duties really well.
ReplyDeletehttp://alidavies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Juggling-life.jpg
Why don't Scout nor Jem call Atticus "father" or "dad"?
I think that Atticus is handling fatherhood rather well, but that's different from single parenthood. Being a single parent means that the parent has to fulfill the responsibilities of both parents. I think he has done a good job of raising Jem and Scout to be obedient, knowledgable kids. Atticus did all things a dad does; he "played with them, read to the them and treated them with courteous detachment" (6). However, the one aspect of a single parent that Atticus is missing is the role of a mother. This is where Calpurnia steps in. Scout could remember her "tyrannical presence ever since she could remember" (7). If Atticus was a bit more strict, and disciplined the children more, he'd have a good grip at being a single parent!
ReplyDeleteAtticus really does try to do his best in raising Scout and Jem, but he lacks the compassion and love of a mother. Scout and Jem are rather distant to Atticus, feeling that he is a satisfactory parent but not as close as parents usually are. Atticus is a lot older than other children's parents, which distances him from Scout and Jem even further because he's more feeble and mature. Atticus does a good job in the sense of raising his children to understand right from wrong, but it's as if there is a deep abyss separating him from them. He doesn't interact with them as much; he really just oversees them from above, giving them more freedom to do what they want. Even though Atticus is an okay father, there still needs to be someone else to fill in the empty gap that he leaves within his relationship with the children, and that is Calpurnia. She plays a major role in the lives of Scout and Jem, filling in for their deceased mother and caring for them as if they were her own. She scolds them for their mistakes yet spoils them with treats, giving them the love and compassion of a mother.
ReplyDeleteHere's a picture that grasps the idea of a family where the working father has no time to play with the children; the mother does this in his place instead:
http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/2x4453956/father_working_with_laptop_computer_while_mother_021295BL.jpg
hopefully a thought provoking question:
What does Francis mean when he says that Atticus is "ruinin' the family"?
I agree with your opinion of how there is a certain distance between the children and Atticus. Atticus is more of an "overly large figure", not exactly a god, but closer to that than their father. He is someone they look up to, and try to impress. However, instead of trying to impress their father, they should instead be able to talk face-face and eye-eye on subjects to give them more of a personal relationship; which they lack.
DeleteI think that Atticus is handling his role as a single parent very well. He does not neglect them to pursue his own pleasures, and he does not indulge/spoil them either. He teaches them what is right and what is wrong, and acts as a mentor. Atticus tries hard. As a single parent, he cannot be with his children all the time, so instead he found someone capable to take care of them. That was the right thing to do.
ReplyDeleteI believe Atticus handles his role as a parent very good. He's a good father to Jem and Scout. He teaches them life lessons and whats right and wrong, but he does not really show any affection to Jem and Scout like a mother would do. Atticus hardly spends time with them and is always working while other parents usually have closer and tighter bonds with their kids. So he lets Calpurnia do the motherly duties. Also Atticus lacks the understanding and compassion towards his children.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what Jeremy said because since atticus did not remarry, he chose the second best option available:to find a trustworthy person to take care of his children. That was very smart.
DeleteI agree with what Jeremy said and I think Atticus is doing very WELL as a single father. He has to deal with stress from the people in Maycomb and run a family.
DeleteAlso I have a question: atticus may be handling his role as a single parent well, but odors he really LOVE his children??
ReplyDeleteWhen you love someone, you tend to do whats best for them. i think atticus really does love his kids although he may not be the affectionate and show it. Right now, i thin he is doing the best for his kids, although he may be teaching them some harsh life lessons early, they will be more mature and have a clearer view of what life really is.
Deletehttp://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&gbv=2&biw=1600&bih=799&tbm=isch&tbnid=_HRcKQgPrPsFqM:&imgrefurl=http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/f/father_and_son.asp&docid=6WIoiti_1o7O2M&imgurl=http://www.ca
ReplyDeleteHow is the relationship between Atticus and Jem, and how does it differ from the relationship between Atticus and Scout?
http://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&source=mog&hl=en&gl=us&client=ms-android-verizon&q=single%20parent&sa=N&biw=320&bih=497#i=6
ReplyDeleteI think that Atticus' determination to be a great father for his children is impressive as a single parent. It's harder for Atticus to raise Scout since she doesn't have a motherly figure, but he already taught her how to read, behave, and more. However, I feel that Atticus has room for more improvement. As a lawyer, he's usually really busy throughout the day, leaving no time for him to bond with his children. Sometimes, it seems that all the children need is more attention and care, but because of Atticus' busy schedule, they don't receive that. He has a difficult time expressing his love for his children and being compassionate towards them. He comes home, eats dinner, has a small talk with Jem and Scout, and then gets lost in his reading or his arguments with Aunt Alexandra. However, since the children don't have a mother, Calpurnia is their motherly figure since she disciplines them, but also comforts them when needed.
ReplyDeletePICTURE: http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1278&bih=627&tbm=isch&tbnid=yuBtWyYk9413EM:&imgrefurl=http://muslimmatters.org/2007/04/28/feeling-the-love/&docid=e-wMmD2Bd7Y8QM&imgurl=http://muslimmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/parentchild.jpg&w=384&h=369&ei=LPkYT8PeNMebiAKYmI3lCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=485&vpy=137&dur=974&hovh=220&hovw=229&tx=75&ty=106&sig=106043642945768839415&page=1&tbnh=135&tbnw=142&start=0&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0
I think the picture looks like the child is tugging at the parent, but the parent won't budge. It's like how Jem or Scout tugs for Atticus' attention but he's too distracted.
I agree with your opinion of how Atticus is always away at work, or arguing with Aunt Alexandria, not leaving any time left for his children. A big part of bonding in a family is spending time together, and Scout and Jem lack that sort of bond with Atticus.
DeleteI agree with what you said about Calpurnia, but I feel that Atticus still tries the best he can. Although he can go straight to his work and leave the children with Calpurnia and Aunt Alexandria, he still takes time to talk to them, and tuck Scout into bed at night. He takes personal time to help them with their problems, like for example when he took time to say nice things to that mean lady that said mean things to the children.
DeleteAlthough I agree that Atticus did not place enough of his attention on his his children due to his work and being lost into his reading, its difficult for him to manage, as he doesn't follow the "rules" of parenting as many do. To be a great parent isn't as easy as most would expect it to be: children also have their own thoughts. If you were a single parent and had to work, what would you do?
DeleteI believe that Atticus is a very good parent to Scout and Jem. He is a straight-forward, frank human being who sticks to his morals, no matter what the majority supports. However, as Scout said "...Atticus was only a man. It takes a woman to do that kind of work" (134). Scout was aware that Atticus was doing his best as a single parent. However, there are certain roles in a family life that only a mother could fill. Atticus provides them with the mentor role as their father; one they can go to when they have problems in their lives. However, Atticus does not provide them the warm, caring love of a mother; One that dotes on the children, cooks home-made meals for them, and pampers them. Scout and Jem were raised very practically by Atticus. However, the emotional support that they need from a mother is missing from their lives. A picture that I thought represented this: http://www.singledadcookbook.co.uk/assets/images/JohnLenahan_single_dad_med.jpg
ReplyDeleteA thought provoking question: Do you think that Calpurnia's reason for speaking "nigger-talk" at her church is reasonable? If so, why?
I agree with Michelle because I feel like though Atticus is a good father, he can only do so much as half of a parenting duo; he's aware Scout and Jem need a motherly figure in their lives to nurture their minds and souls in a feminine point of view, not just a masculine way of thinking.
DeleteI really consider to be a single parent even though he is. Calpurnia to me should also be considered a parent. She teaches them morals and etiquette and teaches them what's right and what is wrong. Atticus is a great father but i really don't consider him as a single parent While Atticus is of at work Calpurnia takes care and feeds jem scout and dill. she takes jem and scout to church and acts as a motherly figure.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&safe=off&sa=X&biw=1366&bih=624&tbm=isch&tbnid=kr5i9XdglzYRHM:&imgrefurl=http://english9sherman.pbworks.com/w/page/4074459/Group%25205%2520Calpurnia&docid=0-LEgqgJpIwa5M&imgurl=http://english9sherman.pbworks.com/f/calpurnia.jpg&w=199&h=254&ei=N_wYT-37I5HbiALNvpCmCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=189&vpy=154&dur=446&hovh=203&hovw=159&tx=80&ty=52&sig=115616534250998561341&page=1&tbnh=147&tbnw=119&start=0&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0
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ReplyDeleteI feel that Atticus handles his role as a single parent as best as he can. Atticus cannot be there all the time for this children because of his demanding job and old age. However, he does not have to be with and take care of his children all of the time. There is an alternative to that situation as Calpurnia, the housemaid comes into play. Atticus knows that Calpurnia can take over for him, so he can relax and read or work as a lawyer. Also, Atticus is lenient and understanding of his children. Even when Jem or Scout talks back or does not obey instructions, Atticus does not give them physical punishment. Overall, even though Atticus cannot be there with his children all the time, he handles his role as a single parent well. The picture describes Atticus because he is working and does not have much time for Scout and Jem.
ReplyDeletehttp://thumbs.dreamstime.com/thumblarge_570/1293867073Dj8q57.jpg
Question: Why does the author use Calpurnia as the motherly figure instead of creating a mom?
I agree with you when you talk about Calpurnia as a motherly figure. I think that Atticus knew that he needed a female presence in the house for Jem and Scout to grow up normally.
DeleteI agree with you about saying that the absence of physical punishment is positive because I feel that in that way he gets to know his children better and truly understand their intentions and inner thoughts.
DeleteIn the course of the novel so far, I feel that whether or not they had a positive affect, Atticus' actions had the right intention and meaning. As a single father with a controversial job, he could have easily taken his stress out on his children, or completely immersed himself in his work. However, even at the hardest situations, he stayed calm and did his best to protect his children and to guide them in the right direction. I feel that although sometimes his actions may not be the best, his heart and reason for doing so is completely innocent and positive. All he's trying to do is be the best father he can be in replacement of their deceased mother. Atticus always put the children first and took time out of his tiring day to spend time with each of them and get to know them personally. He allows the children, especially Scout, to be their own person and have the freedom to truly find themselves without limitations. Although he knows Scout shouldn't have an air gun as a girl, he buys it for her because it makes her happy. Even if it means getting scolded by other people, he just wants his children to be happy and content as long as it doesn't hurt them. He doesn't just ignore and make nothing out of Scout's innocent questions, but takes time to explain it to her so that she understands. I find Atticus's intentions very admirable.
ReplyDeletehttp://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2006/12/05/movies/05smith.533.jpgv this picture reminds me of Scout and Atticus a lot.
I think that Atticus is a very wise father who is a good role model. He can't always be there for his children, but he handles it as best he can, after all- he is a single parent raising two kids. He gives them good life lessons and tries to teach them as best he can. Atticus teaches them the important things in life, for example - to look inside a person before you judge. This shows that he wants to raise his children to do what's right, and to look inside people's hearts before judging. He raised them up to be children who do not care only about the materials/appearances, but rather the deeper things in life that truly matter. Atticus honestly tries the best he can with his two children.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Atticus, as a single parent, has been doing a good job however, I feel Atticus still has potential to be a better single parent. First of all, I feel that considering Atticus’s circumstances and the issues he has to deal with on a daily basis, he does somewhat fulfill his duties as a single father. Despite facing prejudice cases, protecting his clientele, and enduring countless rumors and insults from his fellow neighbors, Atticus manages to set aside some time for Jem and Scout. For example, when Scout explains to Atticus how her first day of school went, noticing that his daughter was disappointed with her curriculum, Atticus promises her that they would still read together as they always have. Atticus also handles his job as a single parent quite well by keeping Calpurnia in the house in order to provide his children with a close replica of a mother’s love. When Aunt Alexandra tells Atticus to get rid of Calpurnia, due to the fact that they do not need her anymore, Atticus refuses and decides to retain her. While Atticus has his strengths as a single parent, he has a few weaknesses as well. One major flaw in Atticus’s handling of being a single parent is his affection towards Jem. At the end of chapter 15, the novel mentions how Atticus massaged Jem’s hair with his hand; a gesture of affection seen after a long time. Atticus’s age should not hold him back from fully expressing his love towards his children and should instead, motivate him to spend as much time with them as they can. Overall, Atticus has been satisfactory in terms of being a single parent however a few steps can be taken on his part in order to become the best father he can be. The following picture relates to how commendable it is that Atticus makes an honest effort to balance his family and civic duty in his life.
ReplyDeletehttp://hardcorenerdity.com/files/2011/06/Atticus_Finch_by_Crispy_Gypsy.jpg
i believe that atticus is a good father in the sense that he didn't neglect his children, he taught them how to read and he teaches them morals. but, can he take it to the next level? what he lacks is affection, he refuses to teach jem and scout how to shoot a gun and also doesn't want to play foot ball with gem. so he is more of a "legal guardian" rather than a father. as jem and scout start to mature and grow up they notice the behavior of other fathers around maycomb, and they can't help but wonder, "why is atticus so different". the fact that gem and scout call their father by his first name already says a lot. i think he is really missing out on his children's childhood, and he may regret it later in life. i don't believe that atticus is just a single parent, he has the help of calpurina whom they all respect just like a mother. Besides doing all the housework, calpurnia really takes on some of the mothering duties.
ReplyDeletea video clip that reflect the mothering duties that calpurnia takes on: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H50llsHm3k
thought provoking question: what quality about scout makes mr cunningham and his gang leave before they attack tom robinson?
I disagree with you when you say Atticus is neglecting his children and missing out on their life, when his children don't feel well are are upset he is always there for them when he can, like when Scout wanted to quit school. If not, he makes sure that someone is there for them to teach them right thing. I also know people who grew up calling their parents by their first name--for them, it doesn't have anything to do with how close they are with their parents, they still have a tight relationship. The name-calling thing is just what they are accustomed in using. In addition, I know people who call their parents 'mom' and 'dad', yet they do not have a close relationship. So really, it depends.
DeleteI think that Atticus won't teach them to shoot a gun because he feels that there are more important stuff he needs to teach them, and he instructs them to only shoot tins and bluejays, it is not like he hands them a gun and lets them go free. He gives them boundaries and while providing financially for his kids, he also sets time aside to teach them about integrity. Teaching them to shoot a gun is simply not h is place.
As a single father, Atticus does the best he can to support Scout and Jem, physically and emotionally. He does a pretty good job as parent on his own, bringing enough food to the table and giving his children kindness and support and love. But I feel like Atticus does lack some attention-giving towards Jem and Scout because being a single father, he tends to not show too much emotion towards them and often leaving them to their own independence and choices. As a father without a mother as a partner in supporting a family, that may be one of the reasons why he tends to leave his kids in more of a independent, brave living style. But nevertheless, he still keeps this in mind and has Calpurnia be sort of the "motherly figure" in their lives because he probably realizes that every child needs the nurture of a mother to help them grow.
ReplyDeleteyes agree with you and I also think that though he lets them develop more independently, he still keeps in mind important values they should hold, like even if Scout developed into a tomboy, she is still taught important lessons on integrity.
DeleteBeing a single parent is not simple; you have to raise and take care of your children, work well in your career, deal with enemies and mean people that may came with it, and all the while keep your sanity. Atticus, as a single parent, has faced many challenges of parenting; his method of doing so does not conform to the way that the community parents their own children. Even in light of their disapproval, he continues to parent just the way that he has because he feels that it is fine the way it is. However, to cope with being a single parent, Atticus also allowed Calpurnia to parent his children as well, so that he wouldn't be taking care of his children by himself. Many times, he tries teaching his children morals and lessons of how to do better in life, such as teaching what not to do, like "Don't kick folks" (204), Scout that "you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view" (39). Because he has given his children so much freedom to do what they want to do, Aunt Alexandra believed that Atticus did not restrict his children the way that she thinks that most people should, leading her to eventually move to Atticus's house, where she would make his children the way she thinks that they should be. To do this, however, Aunt Alexandra attempts to "improve" the household of things or people that she believes that they don't need, such as Calpurnia, which greatly angers Atticus. Being a single parent may be quite difficult, but Atticus remains to be a wise man and a beloved father by his children, who regard him dearly.
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I believe that Atticus is really a good parent and handles the fact that he is a "single" parent well. He tries to teach to Jem and Scour the morals in life and gives them the life lessons that help them grow as people. And, most importantly, he never forced the ideals and morals upon his children. Often times, parents have to make deals or force their children into doing the right thing, but Atticus was different. He let Jem and Scout roam freely and make their own decisions, but at the same time gave them tiny nudges towards the "right" path. The one thing he is not able to do is talk to Scout about dresses and womanly manners and ideals, but, he also had that department covered since the children were tiny: Calpurnia. Cal was always there to be the mother that Jem and Scout never really had. I feel like although Atticus was the only blood-related parent, he wasn't parenting single-handedly because he had the help of Calpurnia. All in all, Atticus seems to have done an incredible job raising two children who love him dearly, but not as the only parent figure, because Calpurnia was always right behind him in helping Jem and Scout make the right decisions.
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As a single parent, Atticus does the best he can with Scout and Jem. Atticus is not particularly a normal parent in many ways. He does his best teach them morals and does give Jem and Scout freedom. Atticus does not lay a hand on either Jem or Scout when they do something wrong. As he said to his brother, Jack,"So far I've been able to get by with threats"(116). He doesn't inflict any pain but simply talks to them when they do something wrong. Also, the difference between him and normal parent is that he tells them anything they ask him as best as he could. For example, one day Scout asked," What's rape"(180). As Rachel mentioned about, Atticus does not talk to Scout about how to be a women or anything in that category, but he does have Calpurnia which makes his life much easier. Calpurnia is a motherly figure toward Jem and Scout. For example, she inflict table manners on Scout when Walter Cunningham was over at the Finches' house,"That boy's yo' comp'ny and if wants to eat up the table cloth you let him, you hear(32). Overall, Atticus is a wonderful parent as a single parent, although, he's a "single" parent he does have Calpurnia.
ReplyDeleteAtticus has Calpurnia help him, and though he's not always there for Jem and Scout he tries his best. He knows that even though they don't have a mother it's important to teach them the right morals and values that their parents are supposed to teach them. He also knows that though he has a job, his children comes first and he needs to learn to juggle his responsibilities.
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DeleteI forgot to add that though he allows his kids to develop independently and they are allowed lots of freedom, the most important values like integrity and self esteem are still taught, and what he can't do Calpurnia almost always makes up for
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