In To Kill a Mockingbird, how does the trial change Atticus?

Atticus is disappointed when Tom Robinson is convicted and then kills himself trying to escape prison.  He knew that he was never going to win the case, but it affects him just the same.  Although Atticus explains to his children that the case is almost unwinnable, he also tried his best and really tried to make a difference for Maycomb.  

Atticus realized that acquitting Tom Robinson, despite the lack of evidence, would be very hard for the jury.  He still tried to explain to them why they should.  He may have given one of the most important closing statements of his career. 

Atticus explained to the jury that there are good men and bad men, regardless of race.  He reminded them that there was no evidence to prove that a crime even took place, and he had proved that Mayella’s injuries could not have come from Tom.  He also showed what Mayella’s home life was like, and how her father most likely was the one who beat her up. 

“…A court is only as sound as its jury, and a jury is only as sound as the men who make it up. I am confident that you gentlemen will review without passion the evidence you have heard, come to a decision, and restore this defendant to his family. In the name of God, do your duty.” (Ch. 20) 

Atticus earned the respect of the black community, and also that of others who felt that racism had seen its day.  The case took its toll on his family though.  Although Atticus did not take Bob Ewell’s threat seriously, his children were scared.  The ultimate effect was when Ewell attacked his children, injuring Jem and possibly doing worse if Boo Radley had not intervened. 

By this time, Atticus is clearly worn down.  He thinks about the impact it will have on Jem, but Heck Tate decides that they should say that Bob Ewell fell on his knife.  This prevents either Jem or Boo Radley from taking responsibility. 

“I’m not a very good man, sir, but I am sheriff of Maycomb County. … Know everything that’s happened here since before I was born. There’s a black boy dead for no reason, and the man responsible for it’s dead. Let the dead bury the dead this time, Mr. Finch. Let the dead bury the dead.” (Ch. 30) 

Atticus thanks Boo Radley for saving his children.  Scout walks Boo home, and reflects on the events of her childhood.  The events of the book are Scout’s story, but they are also Atticus’s.