How did Bob Ewell confront Atticus? How did Attitcus react? What did Atticus's reaction reveal about his character?

While Atticus is leaving the post office one day, Bob Ewell confronts him. Mr. Ewell "spat in his face, and told him he'd get him if it took the rest of his life" (Chapter 22). Atticus tells his children he wishes Bob Ewell did not have a tobacco chewing habit. They hear Miss Stephanie's retelling of the story. According to her, Atticus did not even "bat an eye, just took out his handkerchief and wiped his face and stood there and let Mr. Ewell call him names wild horses could not bring her to repeat" (chapter 23). Mr. Ewell taunts Atticus, saying he is too proud to fight him. Atticus says he is just too old to fight, and walks away.

His reaction shows how Atticus picked his battles. He does not think showing his own personal honor is worth getting into an altercation with Bob Ewell. He also shows his selflessness. He puts himself in Bob Ewell's shoes. Atticus believes if Ewell "spitting in [Atticus's] face and threatening [Atticus] saved Mayella Ewell one extra beating, that's something [Atticus would] gladly take."