Everyone needs a mother-like figure in their life. Calpurnia, the Finch's cook in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, fills that role for Scout and Jem, and is considered part of the family by Atticus. The caring cook is always there for the children. She sets examples for them, disciplines them, and loves them like they are her own. Ever since Mrs. Finch passed away, Cal has constintly been there for the family. Calpurnia is much loved by the Finch family for her patience, compassion, and protectiveness.
Calpurnia's patience has grown since the beginning of the book. When Harper Lee first introduces the Finch's cook, she explains that Cal always critizes Scout for not behaving like Jem. Calpurnia and Scout had never agreed with each other, battling often and epically. However, towards the middle of the book, Calpurnia show more patience to Scout. When Calpurnia takes the children to her church, she tolerates Scout's obstreperous talking and gently hushes her every time instead of immediately disciplining her. “I punched Jem. 'That's the Tom Atticus's de-' 'Sh-h!' I turned to Calpurnia but was hushed before I opened my mouth” (160).Throughout To Kill a Mockingbird, Calpurnia's patience develops along with her compassionate heart.…show more content… She loves the Finch children as her own, as she clearly states. “ I don't want anybody sayin' I don't look after my children,” she muttered (157). When Atticus has to leave on an urgent business call, she kindly watches Jem and Scout, bringing them to her church on Sunday. Not only does Cal show kindness on the Finch's, but also with other guests at her home such as Walter Cunningham. When Scout mocks Walter for putting all the syrup on his food, the cook immediately chastises Scout and tells her to treat her guests with respect. Calpurnia has a loving and considerate heart for almost everyone in
