1. One of the major themes of the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" is that of reaching maturity. In this novel, we meet Scout, who is a young girl who becomes more mature and responsible as the novel progresses. Scout is torn between being authentically herself, and adhering to the norms of society. When Scout is being herself, she is a non conformist. She does not want to be a "lady," nor does she want to be told who to spend time with or how to think. However, this leads to conflict, such as problems in school or with her aunt Alexandra. To avoid these problems, and to be a good person, Scout learns that she has to moderate herself sometimes. This tension is an intrinsic part of the process of growing up.
2. Boo Radley is an important character, but he is also an important symbol. In the novel, Boo Radley is presented as a symbol of innocence, or a symbol of goo. He is one of the only characters who has a pure heart, and who never acts based on negative feelings. Moreover, he seems to most genuinely embody the innocence of childhood, which contrasts strongly with the more cruel and confusing world of adults shown in the novel.
