Throughout the novel, Scout portrays her childhood innocence in various ways. She does not recognize the meaning behind specific derogatory and explicit terms that she hears on an everyday basis. Scout is continually asking her father to explain phrases and words such as "nigger-lover" and "rape." Scout also naively believes everything Jem says. She fears her reclusive neighbor, Arthur "Boo" Radley, and refers to him as the "malevolent phantom." She also believes the false rumors that surround Boo. At the beginning of the novel, Scout lacks perspective and the ability to control her emotions. Atticus is continually reminding Scout to keep her composure and exercise tolerance throughout the novel. Scout is also not aware of the overt prejudice and hypocrisy that is prevalent throughout Maycomb's community. She does not understand the level of oppression African Americans face until she witnesses Tom Robinson's trial. As the novel progresses, Scout matures, and various characters, most notably Atticus, impact and aid in her moral development.
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