In “To Kill a Mockingbird” why does Scout quiz Atticus about his visit to the Radley house and how much does Atticus tell her?

Variant 1 (70-120 words):

In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Scout quizzes Atticus about his visit to the Radley house because she is curious about the rumors surrounding their reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley. Specifically, she wonders if Boo is responsible for the death of Mrs. Radley, his mother. Atticus tells her very little about his visit, only mentioning the actual death of Mrs. Radley.

Variant 2 (more detailed, 270-320 words):

Scout's curiosity about Boo Radley and his supposed involvement in Mrs. Radley's death is a recurring theme throughout "To Kill a Mockingbird." When Atticus tells Scout that he had gone to the Radley house, she seizes the opportunity to grill him about Boo. Scout's questioning is motivated by her fascination with the rumors surrounding Boo's behavior, as well as her own fear of him.

Atticus, however, doesn't indulge Scout's curiosity. He gives her only the barest details about his visit, simply stating that he went to the house to deliver some legal documents and that Mrs. Radley had died. Atticus understands that Scout is too young to understand the complexities of Boo's situation, and he doesn't want to fan the flames of gossip that already swirl around the Radley family.

Atticus's reluctance to reveal information about Boo and the Radleys reflects the larger themes of the novel, particularly the dangers of prejudice and stereotyping. Scout's own behavior towards Boo and the Radleys evolves throughout the novel as she learns to see them as individuals rather than objects of curiosity or fear. Atticus's measured response to her questions serves as an example of how to treat others with respect and empathy, regardless of their background or reputation.