Final answer:
The best description of Atticus's internal conflict is that he is trying to reconcile his concern for his children with his dedication to justice, reflecting the complex moral challenges he faces in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The internal conflict described in the passage best corresponds to option (d). Atticus is struggling to balance his concern for his children's welfare with his commitment to justice. This is indicative of the overarching conflict found in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, where Atticus Finch faces moral and ethical dilemmas concerning his values and his role as a father. In the context given, it seems less about the specifics of Scout's behavior, as suggested in the other options, and more about Atticus's broader responsibility to his family and society.
Moreover, the reference to Mark Twain's anecdote and McTeague's descent suggests the importance of theme and how conflict drives narrative interest. It also touches upon the idea that the characters' actions and internal conflicts can reflect the overarching message of their respective stories, contributing to the literature's thematic elements.