How does the setting in To Kill a Mockingbird portray Scout's loss of innocence?

As the protagonist and narrator of the novel, Scout’s naivety and curiosity give the reader a chance to view Maycomb from an unbiased perspective. Because of her upbringing and respect for Atticus, she’s one of the select few that recognizes the injustices in Maycomb. By the end of the book, Scout is capable of understanding the good and evil in people, looking past appearances, and being compassionate to those around her.

It’s important to note...

As the protagonist and narrator of the novel, Scout’s naivety and curiosity give the reader a chance to view Maycomb from an unbiased perspective. Because of her upbringing and respect for Atticus, she’s one of the select few that recognizes the injustices in Maycomb. By the end of the book, Scout is capable of understanding the good and evil in people, looking past appearances, and being compassionate to those around her.

It’s important to note that the setting in To Kill a Mockingbird is saturated with racial tension. Tom’s inevitable conviction, despite the evidence, illustrates the racism in the town. The rampant racism affects Scout and the Finch family as they face the backlash from the community when Atticus decides to defend Tom. Once Boo Radley, another outsider in Maycomb, saves Scout from being killed by Bob, Scout realizes that it is best to judge someone by their character.