How does Aunt Alexandra become less objectionable?

Aunt Alexandra continually disagrees with her brother, Atticus, throughout in the novel in regards to several issues. She objects to the way he raises his children without teaching them about their family history, as well as his choice to defend Tom Robinson in front of the Maycomb community. There are several scenes throughout the novel where Alexandra argues with Atticus over these issues and more. In Chapter 13, Alexandra encourages her brother to speak with Jem and Scout about their family's background, but Atticus fails after his first attempt to talk with his children. In Chapter 14, Alexandra urges Atticus to fire Calpurnia, but Atticus defends Cal's reputation and refuses to fire her. Clearly, Aunt Alexandra learns quickly that Atticus will stand up to her and she will not get "her way," which is one reason she becomes less objectionable and more likable as the novel progresses.

Following the trial, Aunt Alexandra meets Atticus at the door and says, "I'm sorry brother" (Lee 284). Scout mentions that she is shocked because she has never heard Alexandra refer to Atticus as "brother." Alexandra shows compassion and sympathy towards Atticus because she realizes the stress and courage it took to defend Tom Robinson. In Chapter 24, Atticus interrupts the missionary circle to tell Calpurnia and Alexandra that Tom Robinson was shot dead in the prison earlier that day. Alexandra is numb and comments,

"I can't say I approve of everything he does, Maudie, but he's my brother, and I just want to know when this will ever end...It tears him to pieces. I've seen him when--what else do they want from him, Maudie, what else?" (Lee 316).

Alexandra displays her true feelings for her brother and shares Atticus' pain. She has witnessed firsthand how the Tom Robinson trial has negatively affected her brother. Alexandra's awareness of Atticus' burden is another reason why she becomes less objectionable to the reader and more likable. She understands that arguing about minor issues is trivial compared to the stress Atticus is under. She realizes that Atticus needs support, rather than criticism.