To Kill a Mockingbird/Characters

Atticus Finch

An attorney, and father of Scout. Known for his skill with a rifle. He defends a black man named Tom Robinson who is accused of rape, and is referred to by his children by his first name, rather than "Dad" or "father".

Jean Louise "Scout" Finch

The narrator and protagonist of the novel.

Jeremy "Jem" Finch

Scout's older brother.

Calpurnia "Cal"

Housekeeper of the Finch family and strict mother figure to Scout and Jem. Despite being black, she is able to read and write, and is the one who taught Scout to read and write.

Arthur "Boo" Radley

A quiet and reclusive young man and neighbor to the Finches. He is almost never let out of his house and is a mysterious figure to Maycomb, often leading to rumors of just who he is. Saves the lives of Scout and Jem after they are almost killed by Bob Ewell, whom he kills to protect them.

Maude "Maudie" Atkinson

Another neighbor of the Finches and childhood acquaintance of Atticus.

Robert E. Lee "Bob" Ewell

Main antagonist of the novel. Accuses Tom Robinson of raping his daughter Mayella and successfully lands him in jail. Attempts to murder Scout and Jem, only to be upheld and killed by Boo Radley.

Mayella Ewell

Accuser of being raped by Tom Robinson.

Tom Robinson

Black man accused of raping and assaulting Mayella Ewell. His left arm is crippled, which becomes a vital point in his trial. Despite Atticus's efforts, he is found guilty and imprisoned. While in prison, he attempts to escape and is shot and killed by guards.