What are the important themes/ideas you will take from this book?

One of the most important themes of To Kill a Mockingbird is how Harper Lee portrays each character’s perspective of the moral nature of human beings. She first introduces the topic of whether people are essentially good or evil through innocent characters such as Boo Radley and Tom Robinson, who are not prepared for the adult world of prejudice and hatred and as a result are destroyed. Jem discovers the evils of racism from the events of the trial that causes his faith in humanity to become shaken, whereas Atticus is able to maintain and see the light in people even in the midst of darkness. Atticus has experienced and understands that every person has both good and bad qualities. Therefore he treats others with sympathy and tries to look beyond their flaws by seeing life from their points of view. He teaches Scout and Jem to never lose hope or be disrespectful to other people without knowing their situation, as portrayed through many experiences. For example, Atticus admires Mrs. Dubose’s courage even after her racist remarks: "According to her views, she dies beholden to nothing and nobody. She was the bravest person I ever knew (P. 112)."                                                                     
Lee also uses Scout’s understanding of human nature and her capability to grasp Atticus’ lessons to show her progression towards adulthood. While she is discovering the good and evil within people, she is also losing her innocence. In the final chapters, Scout no longer sees Boo as the childhood phantom, but as a human being. Just like Atticus, Scout hasn't given up hope in others even after all she’s been through.

What were Atticus’ past experiences that may have shaped his personal beliefs about individuals and society? Did you want closure on any of the minor characters that were never brought back (Miss Maudie, Dill, Mayella)? Were there any other unanswered questions?