Scout’s Maturity Evolving Every little girl is growing and in the process of becoming a mature young woman. In Harper Lee’s, To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout becomes more mature based on influences throughout the novel. This is evident in the parenting shown by Atticus, the role of a mother played by Calpurnia, and the lessons demonstrated by Miss Maudie Atkinson. Scout’s father, ‘Atticus’ is there for her at the start of the book all the way to the end helping Scout to understand the town people and being a good example for her. The first piece of advice Atticus gave was displayed in chapter three of the book in the scene with Walter Cunningham who is over at the Finch house for lunch. Scout can be a little judgemental towards Walter as she …show more content…
The closest thing she has to a mother is her black maid for her house. Her name is Calpurnia and while being strict and disciplined with Scout, she tries to fill the motherly role Scout has never had. The first thing Calpurnia has done is influenced Scout’s education. Calpurnia is very strict with most things including education. Early on in the novel, Scout says, “I seldom pleased her and she seldom rewarded me.” (21) Scout focused on her education and staying driven means Calpurnia will reward for doing a good job helping Scout learn that you must work hard to do other things in life and to not slack off. Calpurnia also believes that manners and hospitality are crucial when having guests and thinks that Scout may need some work in that department. An example of this is shown during an early stage in the book where Walter Cunningham comes to the house for lunch. Walter never has anything fancy for dinner. When Scout sees Calpurnia preparing something elegant Scout tells her that it is just a Cunningham implying that it does not need to be fancy. Calpurnia gets frustrated about Scout’s behaviour towards their guest and shouts, “Hush your mouth, it dont matter who they are.” (33) Calpurnia comment’s significance was that it does not matter who