1. Curiosity and Wonder:
* Jem and Scout are fascinated by Boo Radley's "treasures" - the gifts he leaves for them in the knothole of the tree. They are intrigued by the soap carvings, gum, and other small items, finding them both mysterious and magical. This fascination reflects their innocent desire to understand the world around them, and specifically, the enigmatic Boo Radley.
* They are drawn to the world of nature, finding treasures in the simple things. For example, Scout's delight in collecting trinkets and observing the natural world ("I could tell the difference between a mockingbird and a bluejay by its song, and I knew the peculiar habits of dog fennel").
2. Respect and Appreciation:
* Their respect for Atticus's "treasures" is evident in how they handle his possessions. Scout's admiration for the "gentlemanly" Atticus is clear when she states "I felt very proud of Atticus," after he uses his gun to shoot the rabid dog, showcasing her respect for his character and his values.
* They understand the value of their own family history and heritage. For example, their appreciation for their grandmother's china, and the importance of the past in shaping their present.
3. Through Play and Imagination:
* The children often turn their "treasures" into the basis for games and stories. This shows their active engagement with their finds and their desire to create meaning and enjoyment from them.
* They use their imagination to create a world around the treasures they discover. They find joy in the simple act of creating a story from the things around them, like using sticks to build a fort or imagining Boo Radley's life through the items he leaves behind.
Overall, Jem and Scout's appreciation for treasures stems from their innocent wonder, respect for the world around them, and their ability to find joy in simple things. They are not focused on material possessions, but rather the stories and connections that these "treasures" represent.