Top 5 Best Dads In Literature

It's Father's Day in Australia this week so we thought we'd take a look at some of the best dads in literature.

Atticus Finch in To Kill A Mockingbird

Random House Books Australia / Via randomhouse.com.au

Harper Lee creates one of the great heroes of literature, Atticus Finch, whose lone struggle for justice pricks the conscience of a town steeped in prejudice, violence and hypocrisy. Atticus Finch is not only a hero, but he is also a great father to Jem and Scout. He teaches his children valuable life lessons, yet still shows them affection and love. Atticus sets an example of honest behaviour and treats not only his kids, but everyone with equality and respect.

Mr Bennet in Pride and Prejudice

Random House Books Australia / Via randomhouse.com.au

Mr Bennet may not have been the most responsible and financially-farsighted guardian, but he was clearly a devoted father to his five daughters, especially his beloved Lizzy, as portrayed in this one glorious line where he trolls Mrs Bennet: ‘An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this day you must be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr Collins, and I will never see you again if you do.’

Great Uncle Matthew in Anne of Green Gables

Random House Books Australia / Via randomhouse.com.au

Anne is a young orphan who goes to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Matthew is Marilla’s brother and a nice, loving person who warms to Anne’s arrival rather quickly. He spoils the young orphan and treats Anne like his own, while Anne regards him as one of her kindred spirits.

Jo Gargery in Great Expectations

Random House Books Australia / Via randomhouse.com.au

Jo is one of Charles Dickens’ most lovable characters. He is Pip’s brother-in-law and becomes the boy’s surrogate father, and is hardworking, honourable and fair. Even when treated poorly by Pip, he shows unconditional love, just as a real father would.

Jean Valjean in Les Miserables

Random House Books Australia / Via randomhouse.com.au

Born into poverty, Jean Valjean's life became suddenly worse when he was imprisoned after stealing bread to feed his sister’s children. After his release from prison, and following an encounter with a merciful Bishop, Valjean aims to become a better person. This includes caring for Fantine, and rescuing her daughter, Cosette, from abuse at the hands of the Thenardiers. Valjean raises Cosette and, like all great fathers, struggles with his discovery that she has fallen in love with a man. Ultimately, however, Valjean accepts her relationship and gives his adoptive daughter his blessing on his deathbed.