In Harper Lee's To Kill a
Mockingbird, Atticus does not want to tell the children anything about their
heritage. Aunt Alexandra, however, believes that as members of a community that should
feel indebted to the Finches, Jem and Scout should know "where they come
from."
When Atticus comes in to discuss this with them, he
is especially uncomfortable. He tries to communicate the sense of pride Alexandra has,
but it doesn't feel right to Atticus. In fact, the only relative Atticus has told them
about is their cousin Joshua, who tried to kill the president and was institutionalized.
The story is something the children would be entertained by, but Aunt Alexandra does not
find it amusing—trying to put a different spin on this member of the
family.
As Atticus tries to make his sister happy by
educating the children to their background and ancestors, the kids feel uncomfortable
because Atticus is acting strangely—Scout begins to cry. I believe Atticus acts
strangely in that he is not a man to stand on ceremony because his family is well-rooted
in the community. Atticus is a real person who does not judge anyone based on who their
"people" are or where they come from. Atticus finally gives up and tells Jem and Scout
not to worry about it. He jokes a little with them, and leaves the
room.
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