Learning Courage from Scout Flinch by Massiah

Massiah's entry into Varsity Tutor's October 2025 scholarship contest

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Learning Courage from Scout Flinch by Massiah - October 2025 Scholarship Essay

Courage is a quality that is often admired but rarely understood fully, especially by young people. For me, one of the most meaningful lessons about courage has come from Harper Lee’s beloved character, Scout Finch, in *To Kill a Mockingbird*. Through Scout’s innocence, honesty, and bravery, I have learned that true courage is not about physical strength or fearlessness but about standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Her journey as a young girl navigating a prejudiced society has shown me what it means to be brave in everyday life.

From the very beginning of the novel, Scout is depicted as a curious and adventurous girl, eager to explore the world around her. Her innocence makes her naive at times, but it also gives her a pure sense of justice and kindness. As she witnesses her father, Atticus Finch, defending Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, Scout begins to understand the importance of morality and standing up for what is right, regardless of societal prejudices. Although she is young, Scout’s unwavering support for her father’s decision to defend Tom demonstrates her moral courage. She doesn’t fully understand the societal implications or the risks involved, but her instinct to do what is just over what is easy shows her inner strength.

One of the most defining moments of courage for Scout occurs during the confrontation with the mob outside the jail. The mob comes to harm Tom Robinson, but Scout, Jem, and Dill unknowingly find themselves in the middle of a dangerous situation. When Scout innocently speaks to Mr. Cunningham, a member of the mob, she reminds him of his humanity and persuades him to disperse. Her innocence and honesty cut through the hostility, and her simple act of talking to him demonstrates a kind of moral courage that can change a threatening situation. Scout’s ability to see beyond prejudice and to treat others with kindness in a moment of danger has taught me that real courage involves empathy and compassion.

Throughout the novel, Scout’s experiences teach her—and me—that courage is not always about heroism or grand gestures. Often, it is about small acts of honesty and kindness that challenge societal norms. For example, Scout’s willingness to accept her teacher Miss Caroline, despite her disapproval of Scout’s ability to read, shows her courage to be true to herself. Additionally, her relationship with her father, Atticus, exemplifies quiet, steadfast integrity. Atticus consistently teaches Scout that real bravery involves doing what is right, even when it’s unpopular or difficult. When Scout faces teasing or bullying, she learns to stand firm and remain true to her values.

Moreover, Scout’s growth throughout the novel reveals that courage is also about overcoming fear. During the climactic scene when she finally meets Boo Radley, Scout realizes that her fears and misconceptions about him were unfounded. Her acceptance and understanding of Boo symbolize her courage to challenge her assumptions and prejudices. This moment teaches me that courage involves being open-minded and willing to confront our fears.

In my own life, Scout’s example has inspired me to stand up against injustice and to act with kindness, even when it’s uncomfortable. Whether it’s defending a classmate who is being teased or speaking out against unfair treatment, I now understand that courage is about taking action despite fear or peer pressure. Scout’s innocence and moral strength remind me that even small acts of bravery can make a difference.

In conclusion, Scout Finch’s journey in *To Kill a Mockingbird* has taught me that true courage is rooted in kindness, honesty, and moral integrity. Her innocence and bravery show that even the youngest among us can demonstrate great courage when guided by compassion and a sense of justice. Her example encourages me to face my fears, stand up for what is right, and treat others with empathy. Through Scout, I have learned that courage is not about being fearless but about doing what is right despite our fears, and that is a lesson I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

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