Top 10 Life Lessons of Atticus Finch

Revisit the timeless novel and movie, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” viewed through the lens of one of literature’s most revered protagonists. In this two-session course, we’ll focus on the Top 10 Life Lessons of Atticus Finch by reviewing select passages from Harper Lee’s 1960 book, paired with relevant scenes from the 1962 film (featuring Gregory Peck). As an added bonus, we’ll also explore how these Life Lessons have morphed slightly based on Harper Lee’s portrayal of Atticus in "Go Set a Watchman," her controversial “sequel” published 55 years after “To Kill a Mockingbird.” In the second session’s concluding segment, get ready to challenge some of your assumptions and beliefs about the beloved Atticus!

Eric Kimble is a former business executive who, mid-career, answered a call from the “Great Recruiter in the Sky” to return to his high school alma mater to teach English literature and coach baseball. Known for creating engaging seminars with relevant lessons, Eric’s business/teaching background allows him to provide a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of literature and life. Eric spent most of his teaching career at St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Massachusetts; he most recently retired from teaching freshmen, sophomore and senior English Literature at Mount St. Charles Academy in Woonsocket.  He holds an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and a B.A. in English literature from Brown University. Eric and his wife Nancy recently moved to Rhode Island to be closer to their three grown daughters and enjoy the beauty of the Ocean State.