In Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," Miss Maudie tells Scout Finch that Boo Radley is not the monstrous figure that the rumors in Maycomb make him out to be. She explains that Boo is a kind and gentle person who has been unfairly vilified by the town's gossip and prejudice. Miss Maudie emphasizes the importance of not judging people based on hearsay and encourages Scout to consider Boo's perspective with empathy. This conversation with Miss Maudie helps Scout to see Boo Radley in a more compassionate light and contributes to her growing understanding of the complexities of human nature.