Miss Maudie holds Atticus Finch in high regard. She knows him better than almost anyone. When they were children, they were neighbors out by Finch's Landing. She has known him for her whole life. As adults, they became neighbors in Maycomb.
Scout and Jem enjoy talking to Miss Maudie. She speaks to them as equals and shows them respect. Sometimes they complain about their father to her. Miss Maudie always speaks positive words about him. She tells Scout one day that "Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets" (To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 5). She knows him as someone who is authentic. He does not change who he is for anyone.
Later, Miss Maudie tells Scout and Jem that "if [their] father's anything, he's civilized in his heart" (Chapter 10). She refers to the fact that he had given up shooting, even though he had immense talent. Miss Maudie respects Atticus and his decisions.
Miss Maudie and Atticus share a quiet solidarity that comes with knowing someone for many years and through many seasons of life. The following quote shows this special bond:
"Atticus wheeled around and faced Miss Maudie. They looked at one another without saying anything, and Atticus got into the sheriff's car" (Chapter 10).
Atticus had just shot the rabid dog. It had been a scene of tension. Through this, they share a quiet moment of friendship.
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