What does Miss Maudie say about what happened and what it says about the people of Maycomb?
In Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," Miss Maudie is a neighbor of the Finch family and a friend to Scout and Jem. After the fire that destroys Miss Maudie's house, she comments on what happened and shares her thoughts on the people of Maycomb.
Miss Maudie reveals her resilient nature and positive attitude by stating that she had always wanted a smaller house and now she finally has the chance to build one. She refuses to be defeated by the situation and chooses to focus on the opportunities it presents instead.
Regarding the people of Maycomb, Miss Maudie speaks kindly of them. She states that she knows the fire was not caused by malice but an act of nature. However, she indirectly criticizes their tendency to gossip by mentioning that some neighbors thought the fire was the result of Boo Radley, a reclusive figure who is the subject of much speculation.
Miss Maudie's comment about Boo Radley and the gossip surrounding him suggests that the people of Maycomb tend to exaggerate and create rumors without having solid evidence. It speaks to their inclination to jump to conclusions and indulge in baseless rumors, which is characteristic of a small town where everyone knows everyone else's business.
Overall, Miss Maudie's reaction to the fire displays her strength of character, while her remark about Maycomb's gossiping nature highlights the tendency of the townspeople to make assumptions and judge others without facts.