How does Scout and Jem mature during the novel?

Jem is growing up all the time. This can be seen when he stops Scout from embarrassing Dill by asking about his family life. Jem later decides to write a thank you note for the gifts Boo leaves in the tree trunk and is upset when the knothole is cemented up. although he takes care to cry about it in private.

Jem also involves himself closely in the trial, he understands most of the arguments. When Tom is found guilty, he appears to be let down. This is part of the experience of growing up. He tells Scout sadly, "I think I'm beginning to understand why Boo Radley's stayed shut up in the house all this time. It's because he wants to stay inside." This shows that he is able to see things from another person's point of view.

Jem's sense of responsibility also grow as the story progresses. He tells Atticus when Dill is found under Scout's bed, as he understands that its important that an adult knows Dill is there. He also insists on going to the jail when he senses that his father may be in danger. He is able to recognise the seriousness of the situation outside the jail; thus he refuses to leave his father, even when he is ordered to do so.

Scout also matures as she grows older. We can see her grow up from a tomboyish and aggressive little girl who often got into fights to one who is able to be more self-controlled.

In the beginning, we see Scout's insensitive questioning of Dill about his father. However after lessons taught by Atticus she has learns about sensitivity and self-control. She turns away from Cecil Jacobs' taunts because "if I fought Cecil, I would let Atticus down". This shows that she respects Atticus and remembers what Atticus has taught her to do "hold your head high and keep those fists down."

Calpurnia is also important as the housekeeper of the Finches. She plays an important part in the growing up of the children by teaching them moral values. She teaches Scout about behaviour when she tells Scout off because she has criticised Walter Cunningham's eating habits. However during Scout's first year in school when she spends less time with Jem she goes in the kitchen. As a result of this the tomboyish Scout begins "to think that there was some skill involved in being a girl".

When Aunt Alexandra's stay at the Finches' house Scout also changes her tomboyish attitude and starts to be more like a girl. In the beginning, when her aunt calls her in to be introduced to her guests she is "usually mud-splashed or covered with sand". However as times passes, a more mature Scout is aware that all ladies smell "heavenly". She again behaves as Alexandra wants when she replies her ambition is to be "just a lady" after being questioned about her future. The greatest advance in her relationship with her aunt occurs at a missionary circle gathering when news is brought of Tom Robinson's death and Scout thinks that, "If Aunty could be a lady at a time like this, so could I." Scout has realised that ladylike behaviour can be more than a superficial facade; it can demonstrate strength of character.

Finally Scout's ability to be a lady is longer doubted when one sees the kindness she extends to Boo once he has saved herself and Jem from Bob Ewell. She understands from Boo's little actions and gestures that he wants to see Jem again before he leaves. She also retains his dignity on the way home by making sure that he appears to be leading her rather than the other way round. Scout expresses regret that "we had never put back into the tree what we took out of it: we had given him nothing". This shows her maturity again.