The Mad Dog Incident

A rabid dog threatens the neighborhood, and Atticus reveals his hidden marksmanship, changing his children's perception of him.

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The Dog's Approach

The Dog's Approach The Discovery Jem and Scout spot Tim Johnson, a liver-colored bird dog, walking erratically down the street. He is moving slowly and twitching. Jem suspects he is sick. The Warning Calpurnia confirms the dog is mad. She calls Atticus and the neighbors, warning everyone to stay inside. The street becomes deserted and tense. The Waiting Atticus and Sheriff Heck Tate arrive. They wait for the dog to come into range. The children watch from the porch, frightened. The atmosphere is heavy with danger.

The Shot

The Shot The Handoff Sheriff Tate insists Atticus take the rifle, saying he cannot shoot that well. Atticus protests he hasn't shot in thirty years, but Tate forces the gun into his hands. The Calm Aim Atticus walks into the street, removes his glasses, and takes aim. In one fluid motion, he fires. The bullet hits Tim Johnson just above the left eye, killing him instantly. The Revelation Jem and Scout are stunned. They had no idea their father could shoot. Miss Maudie tells them Atticus was known as "One-Shot Finch" in his youth, the deadest shot in Maycomb County.

The Aftermath

The Aftermath The Children's Awe Jem is in a state of numb confusion. He cannot believe what he saw. Scout feels proud and ashamed of her earlier disdain for her father. Miss Maudie's Explanation Miss Maudie explains that Atticus never boasted because he believes marksmanship is a God-given talent, not something to take pride in. He put down his gun when he realized he had an unfair advantage. Jem's New Understanding Jem tells Scout not to brag at school. He says Atticus is a gentleman, just like him. The incident redefines their view of their father's quiet strength and humility.

a February afternoon

as the dog pauses near the Radley gate

immediately after the shooting