In chapter 15, how does the scene outside the Maycomb County Jail portray the theme of innocence?

portrays the theme of innocence during the scene outside of Maycomb's jailhouse by depicting 's
naive perspective and lack of understanding. When Scout runs out of her hiding spot into the
group of men surrounding , she has no idea that she has entered an extremely dangerous
environment. Scout is completely unaware that she is standing in the middle of a lynch mob
consisting of drunken men who are willing to harm Atticus in order to kill Tom Robinson. When
Scout recognizes Walter Cunningham Jr.'s father, she casually attempts to have a conversation
with him and is perplexed by his dismissive nature. After Scout brings up his entailment and
speaks highly of his son, Walter Cunningham finally sympathizes with Atticus and acknowledges
Scout. He then instructs the lynch mob to leave, and no one is harmed during the
ordeal.

Scout's lack of perspective and naive personality contribute to
Harper Lee's theme of innocence, which runs throughout the novel. Scout's innocence prevents her
from recognizing that she is in a dangerous situation and blinds her from realizing the group's
violent intentions. During the scene, Scout continues to speak casually to Walter Cunningham and
does not understand the gravity of the situation. After the lynch mob leaves, Scout wonders why
Atticus seems proud of , despite his disobedience. Scout is too young and naive to realize that
Atticus is proud of Jem for demonstrating his loyalty and refusing to
leave.