Nicholas Weaver

Mrs. Mason
English 10 H Period 3
February 12, 2014

To Kill a Mockingbird

In the book To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the readers can point
out that some of the characters such as Calpurnia, Atticus, and Robert Ewell,
all have names that serve as a symbolic function. Names, particularly in
stories, often serve many purposes. In Harper Lee's story, the meaning of a
particular name sometimes gives a clue to the character's personality.
Sometimes, even the sound of a name gives a hint to how the author wants
the reader to interpret a character. 1 Atticus is one of the many characters
that can be identified through their name. The name of Atticus came from
the Roman orator and noble Titus Pomponius Atticus.2 Titus was known for
never taking a side in political struggles but rather staying impartial and for
his elegant taste and sound judgment. When Titus Atticus lived in Athens he
helped the citizens by loaning money and providing wheat from his own
stores.3

1 "Names in Stories." Pureliterature.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Feb. 2014

2 Watson, J. S., Rev. "Cornelius Nepos: Life of Atticus - Translation." Cornelius Nepos:
Life of Atticus - Translation. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Feb. 2014.

Atticus Finch is similar to Titus Pomponius Atticus in more ways than

one. When confronted by Mr. Cunningham and his mob, the reader learns
that Atticus

has several redeeming character traits such as generosity,

open-mindedness, excellent marksmanship, modesty, and good morals, all of

which he tries to instill in his young children, making him also, a caring
father. These traits appear throughout the book. Atticus shows generosity
when Mr. Cunningham, a client of Atticus, cannot come up with the money to
pay him for his service. Atticus accepts payment in vegetables and other
things with no questions asks, even willing to accept nothing at all. When
Walter Cunningham said "Mr. Finch, I don't know when I'll ever be able to pay
you." Atticus replied "Let that be the least of your worries, Walter." 4 Just like
Atticus Finch, Titus is very generous to his people, only accepting what they
can give, and giving goods to the people. However, generosity is not the only
similarity the two have between them. Both love to read, are humble, and
respect everyone no matter what the circumstance is. Atticus Finch through
many similarities reflects the namesake of Titus.
Harper Lee has portrayed Atticus the way Titus Atticus was because he
was "a wise, learned and humane man," says Lee herself. 5 Additionally, Titus
Pomponius Atticus actually gave himself the nickname Atticus after falling
3 "Titus Pomponius Atticus (Roman Author)." Encyclopedia Britannica Online.
Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 12 Feb. 2014.
4 Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. Philadelphia: Lippincott, 1960. pg 27. Print.
5 "Atticus." Baby Names. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Feb. 2014

in love with the culture and society of Athens, Atticus was also remembered
as a man of stylish taste, sound intellect and financial acumen. But for
Harper Lee, it was mainly his wisdom and humanity that inspired the name
of her great literary hero, Atticus Finch.