Question

what does atticus mean when he says that scout and jem are not from
un - of - the - mill people\?
do you think atticus truly believes what he tells scout about their fa heritage? why or why not?

Explanation:

1. For the first question: "Run-of-the-mill" means ordinary or average. Atticus is referring to the Finch family's commitment to moral integrity, empathy, and standing up for justice—values that set them apart from the majority of Maycomb's residents who uphold prejudice and conformity. He means Scout and Jem are raised to prioritize ethics over fitting in with the town's biased norms.
2. For the second question: Atticus truly believes this. His consistent actions (defending Tom Robinson, modeling respect for all people, even those who dislike him) align with his words about the Finch heritage. He lives by the moral code he teaches his children, so his statements about their family's distinct, principled identity are sincere, not just a lesson.

Answer:

1. Atticus means Scout and Jem are not ordinary; their family is defined by unique moral values (empathy, justice) that set them apart from Maycomb's conformist, prejudiced majority.
2. Yes, Atticus truly believes this. His actions (e.g., defending Tom Robinson, modeling respectful behavior to all) consistently match the moral heritage he describes, proving his words are sincere, not just a lesson.