What are some significant events in Scout's life that contribute to her development as a character?

Scout is already wise beyond her years, but she continues to grow through a series of events that are detailed in Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. Although she doesn't remember her mother, Scout learns to thrive without a maternal influence that most children receive. The discovery of Dill in the collard patch marks the beginning of a long friendship--and an early engagement. Dill's persistent attempts to catch a glimpse of Boo Radley draws Scout into the mix, and she eventually learns to regret the annoyance she must causes her reclusive neighbor.

I sometimes felt a twinge of remorse... at ever having taken part in what must have been sheer torment to Arthur Radley.

Scout learns that teachers are not perfect, especially Miss Caroline.

Had her conduct been more friendly toward me, I would have felt sorry for her. She was a pretty little thing.

Atticus' defense of Tom Robinson teaches Scout to use her fists as well as to show restraint.

My fists were clenched, and I was ready to let fly... I was far too old and too big for such childish things, and the sooner I learned to hold in, the better off everybody would be. I soon forgot.

Scout finally realizes that her humble father had hidden talents after all.

    Miss Maudie grinned wickedly. "Well, now Miss Jean Louise," she said, "still think your father can't do anything? Still ashamed of him?
    "Nome," I said meekly.
    "Forgot to tell you the other day that... Atticus Finch was the deadest shot in Maycomb County in his time."
    "Dead shot..." echoed Jem.
    "...Looks like he'd be proud of it," I said.
    "People in their right minds never take pride in their talents," said Miss Maudie.

She discovers that Atticus is respected by people of all types, including Dolphus Raymond and Maycomb's black townspeople.

    I looked around. They were standing. All around us and in the balcony on the opposite wall, the Negroes were getting to their feet. Reverend Sykes' voice was as distant as Judge Taylor's.
    "Miss Jean Louise, stand up. You father's passin'."

Tom's conviction also teaches her that life isn't always fair. At the missionary circle, she finds that "ladies" don't always practice what they preach. She discovers that hateful men like Bob Ewell will do just about anything to even a score. And she finally sees Boo Radley--not as a shadowy fantasy, but as a real, live hero.

"... when they finally saw him, why he hadn't done any of those things... Atticus, he was real nice...
    "Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them."