Miss Maudie is part of the world where "fragrant ladies rocked slowly, fanned gently, and drank cool water" (24.53), but this rose never lets others forget her thorns. Unlike Miss Stephanie and Mrs. Dubose, however, Miss Maudie uses her sharp tongue to counter meanness rather than to perpetrate it.
Along with Atticus, Miss Maudie is the voice of reason in Maycomb. Unlike many of her neighbours, she is not quick to judge others, does not gossip about Boo Radley and hopes that even though Tom Robinson is inevitably found guilty, the words of Atticus at the trial may bring about some small future change.
