In chapter 9, Atticus is having a conversation with uncle Jack after coining home from the Christmas party. Atticus is aware of Scout’s presence, however carries on his conversation as if she was in bed.

‘I’m simply defending a negro’. This quote suggests that defending a negro is not a big deal or significant. This view will not be shared by many others in Maycomb. This view is a bold and and implies that Atticus is just, brave and has an advanced way of thinking. This is important because after this chapter Atticus is a more credible character in the readers eyes.