Oxford Dictionary defines human nature as, “The general psychological characteristics, feelings, and behavioural traits of humankind, regarded as shared by all humans”. But human nature can not only be defined with words, but with actions as well. Scout discovered what the true meaning of human nature over the 2 years of her life covered in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. But human nature is developed, as observations and perceptions can be warped by assumptions and stereotypes. Scout discovered human nature in this way. At the beginning of this book Scout demonstrates her childish observations by perceiving Boo Radley as an evil monster. As the story progresses Scout learns that Boo shares the same childish characteristics herself. Scout …show more content…
This is all intertwined with the thesis statement as Scout’s perception upon the world is slowly warped as she experiences the discontent of the world. Yet again Scout is met with confusion as Calpurnia takes the children to a black church. At the church Scout and Jem are treated as equals and accepted into the congregation. Here, Scout learns that Tom Robinson is being accused by Bob Ewell. Scout cannot comprehend why anybody would believe Ewell’s accusations. This continues to display how innocent Scout is; not understanding the importance of race even in the judicial system at the time. One of the defining moments of human nature in the book is when Atticus stands guard at Tom Robinson’s cell awaiting a lynching mob. Atticus demonstrates the willingness to sacrifice his safety for the rightful treatment of a prisoner. The children observe this, If Scout had not interrupted Atticus may have been severely beaten. Yet another demonstration of innocence is when Scout recognizes one of her classmates Fathers Mr. Cunningham. After Scout introduces herself and asks Mr. Cunningham to say “hey” to his son, Mr. Cunningham disperses the mob. This most likely due to the realization of the evil the mob is about to commit in the innocent eyes of a child. The day after the trial and the verdict is given, a massive amount of food appears on the Finch’s doorstep. This proves Atticus’s beliefs of helping not in