How does Scout's character develop throughout the novel?

All readers can agree I think that Scout does become more mature throughout the novel, but it is the maturity which comes from finding out the many bad qualities of man and mankind. As she realizes what people put one another through when they act with prejudice and hatred, she also gains a kind of knowledge which is not particularly good. Yet she must know this to really become more mature. She also learns to make some of her own decisions, such as sitting up in the "balcony" of the courtroom when the trial is going on. This, too, is a kind of maturity and she learns that some behaviors do have consequences.