Fathers In Fiction We All Wish We Had

There are fathers and there are fathers. And sometimes a father you read about in the pages of a book reminds you of your own, or is a father you wished your own was more like. Here are some dads in fiction who really rocked the fatherhood gig.

Atticus Finch in 'To Kill A Mockingbird' by Harper Lee
Always at number one spot in a list like this. One of best etched fathers to be written down, and masterfully so by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch walked the talk. In an era of racism, poverty and narrow-mindedness he, by his actions, set a fine example for his children Scout and Jem. One of the best lines he says- “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

Mr Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen
Five unmarried daughters, and each a drama queen in their own right. The hapless Mr Bennet would have his hands full, one supposes. But he’s on the side of the girls, absolutely supportive and even indulgent of his rather spirited daughter Elizabeth. He’s though, not an ideal father, indecisive at times, not very financially wise, but then, he means well, and dotes on his daughters and for that we continue to love him.

Arthur Weasley in the 'Harry Potter' books by J K Rowling
He has quite a huge brood to look after himself. Six sons and one daughter, he’s endearing, bumbling, funny and well-meaning. And along with his wife Molly, he gives the orphaned Harry a glimpse of life growing up cared for by parents and living as part of a family that loves you, and takes him warmly into their fold.

Eddard Stark in 'The Game of Thrones' by George R R Martin
The Lord of Winterfell, Eddard teaches his young son Bran and older son Robb justice and how it must be delivered early. He is one of the rare characters in the series who is of unimpeachable integrity and manages to inculcate the same values in his children.

Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Stuck in a miserable job working for the mercenary and joyless Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit still manages to shine through with his positivity and thankfulness for the little things that he has and his bond with his son, Tiny Tim, is most endearing, a lovely role model for fathers to emulate.

Someone we missed? You know of others? Share Now in the Comments box!

Feature Image Credit: The Atlantic