Jem:
* He's growing up: Jem's actions in these chapters show his growing maturity and independence. He begins to take more risks, like sneaking into the Radley yard to retrieve his pants. He also shows a growing sense of responsibility, trying to help Scout understand their father's actions and protecting her from the dangers of the Radley place.
* He's curious and adventurous: Jem is fascinated by Boo Radley and the mysteries surrounding him. This leads him to take dares and engage in risky behavior, showing his adventurous spirit and willingness to challenge the norms.
* He's starting to understand the world: Jem's interactions with Scout and Atticus, particularly about the Radleys, show his budding understanding of prejudice, fear, and how the world can be unfair. He's trying to make sense of the rumors and stereotypes surrounding Boo Radley, which reveals a growing critical thinking ability.
Scout:
* She's learning about the world through her brother: Scout's observations and interactions with Jem are important. She relies on him for information and guidance, which highlights her trust in him and her own growing understanding of the adult world.
* She's still a child, but growing: Scout's innocence and childlike perspective are highlighted in these chapters. She's afraid of the unknown, especially the Radley family, and her initial fear of Boo contrasts with Jem's curiosity. However, she also shows a growing sense of responsibility when she helps Jem retrieve his pants.
Boo Radley:
* He's a mystery: The chapters further build the mystique surrounding Boo Radley. We still know very little about him, but his presence is felt through the rumors and fears surrounding him. This mystery fuels Jem's curiosity and Scout's fear, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and suspense.
* He's possibly not the monster people think he is: Jem's act of retrieving his pants from the Radley yard and the mysterious gifts left for the children suggest Boo might be more benevolent and caring than the community believes. The fact that he doesn't harm Jem, despite his actions, implies a hidden kindness that contrasts with the prejudice against him.
Overall: Chapters 6 and 7 set the stage for the deeper exploration of these characters and their relationships. Jem and Scout's interactions with each other and the mysterious figure of Boo Radley highlight the themes of childhood innocence, growing up, and the power of prejudice and misunderstanding in shaping a community's perception.