At one of the novel’s critical points, Jean-Louise Finch, Atticus’s daughter, asks “Do all defend n-Negroes Atticus?” and Atticus replies “Of course they do, Scout” (Lee 100). No matter the man, Atticus will defend out of shear respect and kindness. Atticus later states “I’m simply defending a Negro- His name’s Tom Robinson... they’re clean-living folks” (Lee 100) Atticus suggests and tries to make Jean-Louise understand that no matter what society has against the black race that it is unjust to not defend a man in need simply because of the color of his skin. Mr. Robinson is an honest, hardworking man who provides for his family; Atticus breaks the misconception that blacks are some disease ridden bunch of animals that the rest of society makes them out to be. Even though Atticus is openly defending a Negro, he gains respect from the town because no man has the brazen courage to defend a Negro at such a racially divided point in America’s history. This is one of the many reasons why Atticus is so openly criticized, but gains respect at the same