What are the differences and similarities between Atticus and Mrs. Dubose throughout the novel To Kill a Mockingbird?

The characters of Atticus and Mrs. Dubose are both similar, yet different in various ways. The personalities of Atticus and Mrs. Dubose contrast greatly. Mrs. Dubose is an outspoken, unapologetic racist whose predominant character trait is her propensity to insult the Finch family. Atticus is the morally upright, tolerant role-model, who champions the fight against racial inequality throughout Maycomb County. Atticus goes out of his way to be polite and show respect to his neighbors, while Mrs. Dubose goes out of her way to insult and belittle them. Mrs. Dubose is also terminally ill, while Atticus is healthy.

Aside from their many differences, the two characters share similar personality traits. Both characters are courageous when faced with adversity. Mrs. Dubose battles her terminal illness and addiction to morphine intensely, while Atticus remains focused during his unwinnable court case. Both characters have strong views and display integrity. Mrs. Dubose wants to die "beholden to nothing and nobody," while Atticus remains morally upright in the face of ignorance. Atticus and Mrs. Dubose both share a common interest in reading. When Jem is punished, Mrs. Dubose asks Atticus if Jem can read to her. Throughout the novel, Atticus is portrayed as a bookworm who is always reading. Both characters find solace in the pages of books.