The narrator learns significant lessons from Doodle, including perseverance, unconditional love, and courage. Through Doodle's struggles and unwavering loyalty, the narrator gains insight into the complexities of human emotions such as guilt, pride, and grief. As an adult, he reflects on his past selfishness and its impact on Doodle's tragic death, realizing too late the importance of Doodle's gentle and resilient spirit.

Renaming William Armstrong to "Doodle" in "The Scarlet Ibis" was seen as kind because it set low expectations, allowing him to be appreciated for who he was. The playful, light-hearted name contrasted with the serious nature of his illness, which initially led his family to expect his early death. By giving him a cheerful nickname, the narrator showed affection and interest, helping to lighten the mood and foster a sense of hope despite Doodle's health challenges.

Doodle and the scarlet ibis both struggle to survive in inhospitable environments. Doodle faces pressure from his brother to conform and be "normal," which exacerbates his vulnerability. The ibis, displaced from its tropical habitat, is similarly fragile and out of place in the northern climate. Both characters are symbolic outcasts, unable to adapt to their surroundings. The pressures of physical adaptation and social conformity ultimately prove overwhelming for both Doodle and the ibis.

Doodle's motivations for his actions towards the ibis in "The Scarlet Ibis" stem from a sense of empathy and connection. He feels a kinship with the bird, as both are fragile and out of place in their environments. Doodle's compassion drives him to bury the bird with dignity, reflecting his understanding of suffering and his desire to show respect.

"The Scarlet Ibis" explores different perspectives through the narrator's reflections on his actions and feelings toward his brother, Doodle. The story highlights themes of pride, guilt, and regret, illustrating how the narrator's complex emotions and motives shape his treatment of Doodle, ultimately leading to tragic consequences.

In James Hurst's "The Scarlet Ibis," the scarlet ibis serves as a powerful symbol for Doodle, highlighting themes of fragility, beauty, and the struggle for acceptance. Both the bird and Doodle are out of place in their environments, leading to their tragic ends. The ibis, a rare and exotic bird from South America, symbolizes Doodle's uniqueness and vulnerability. The story explores themes of pride, guilt, and brotherhood, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and the impact of appearances on personal relationships.

Doodle's pleas to his brother in "The Scarlet Ibis" signify his dependence and vulnerability, highlighting the emotional bond between them. These pleas foreshadow the tragic outcome, as they underscore Doodle's physical limitations and his brother's relentless push for normalcy, ultimately leading to Doodle's death.

"The Scarlet Ibis" explores societal expectations and attitudes towards handicapped individuals through the character of Doodle. The story highlights the pressure to conform to societal norms of physical ability and the lack of acceptance for those who are different. Doodle's brother pushes him to overcome his disabilities, driven by shame and embarrassment, ultimately leading to tragic consequences.