Count What Does Atticus Killing The Dog Symbolize?

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus shooting the rabid dog symbolizes his role as a protector of the community. He bravely faces a dangerous situation to protect the people of Maycomb, showing his courage and commitment to their safety. This act foreshadows his later defense of Tom Robinson, where he faces a different kind of danger – the danger of prejudice and racism.

Just as Atticus confronts the rabid dog to protect the town from its physical threat, he courageously defends Tom Robinson against accusations fueled by racism. He understands that racism, like the rabid dog, can infect and harm the community. He stands against the prejudice and fear that poison Maycomb, striving to protect its soul.

The rabid dog symbolizes the immediate threat of disease and violence, while Tom Robinson embodies the long-standing, insidious danger of racism. Both situations require Atticus to confront a threat and protect his community, demonstrating his strong sense of responsibility and his belief in justice.

While the rabid dog is a tangible, immediate danger, racism is a more subtle and insidious threat. It infects the minds and hearts of people, leading to discrimination and injustice. Just as Atticus must confront the rabid dog to protect the community, he must also confront racism to protect the community from its harmful effects.

Atticus’s actions in both situations highlight his unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult and unpopular. He embodies the values of courage, integrity, and compassion, showing the power of one person to stand up for what they believe in and protect the community from harm.