Jem
Extended Character Analysis
Scout’s older brother, Jeremy "Jem" Finch, is only nine years old when the novel opens. In temperament, he is more mature and thoughtful than his impulsive younger sister. Initially, Jem acts as both Scout’s playmate and mentor, often serving as a bridge between her and the adult world. As Jem is four years older than Scout, he has a more nuanced understanding of the prejudice and racism in Maycomb and, as a result, is more emotionally affected by it. Harper Lee uses Jem’s awakening to adulthood to mirror the townspeople's realization of their intolerance. As the novel progresses, Jem begins to retreat from the childish games that he and Scout used to enjoy, becoming moodier and more withdrawn. Despite this increasing worldliness, Jem’s pure admiration for Atticus and intense faith in justice leaves him unprepared for the outcome of Tom Robinson's trial, and he is utterly devastated by the jury's decision. Though Jem feels disillusioned with Maycomb in the aftermath of the trial, he still retains his inner goodness and bravely attempts to defend his little sister against Bob Ewell’s attack. By the end of the novel, Atticus is confident that Jem will eventually be able to move on from his disappointment in the trial and “be himself again.”
Quotes
- “You know something, Scout? I’ve got it all figured out, now. I’ve thought about it a lot lately and I’ve got it figured out. There’s four kinds of folks in the world. There’s the ordinary kind like us and the neighbors, there’s the kind like the Cunninghams out in the woods, the kind like the Ewells down at the dump, and the Negroes.”
- "It's like bein' a caterpillar in a cocoon, that's what it is. . . . Like somethin' asleep wrapped up in a warm place. I always thought Maycomb folks were the best folks in the world, least that's what they seemed like."
- "That's what I thought, too . . . when I was your age. If there's just one kind of folks, why can't they get along with each other? If they're all alike, why do they go out of their way to despise each other? Scout, I think I'm beginning to understand something. I think I'm beginning to understand why Boo Radley's stayed shut up in the house all this time . . . it's because he wants to stay inside."
- "Atticus says you can choose your friends but you sho' can't choose your family, an' they're still kin to you no matter whether you acknowledge 'em or not, and it makes you look right silly when you don't."
- "Jem wanted Dill to know once and for all that he wasn’t scared of anything: 'It’s just that I can’t think of a way to make him come out without him gettin’ us.' Besides, Jem had his little sister to think of. When he said that, I knew he was afraid."
Expert Q&A
Jem and Scout's Evolving Relationship in To Kill a Mockingbird
In To Kill a Mockingbird, Jem and Scout Finch's relationship evolves significantly as they mature over the course of the novel. Initially, they share a close bond, with Jem often taking a protective, older brother role. However, as Jem matures, especially after events like Tom Robinson's trial, he becomes more introspective and distant, causing tension with Scout. Despite these changes, their relationship remains strong, marked by mutual respect and understanding. Both children learn important life lessons about empathy, courage, and justice, largely influenced by their father, Atticus, and experiences with Boo Radley.
Jem's Changing Persona and Its Impact on Scout
In To Kill a Mockingbird, Jem's maturation significantly impacts Scout, as she perceives his changing persona as him becoming "more like a girl," reflecting his growing empathy and maturity. This is notably illustrated when Jem spares a roly-poly, symbolizing his loss of innocence following Tom Robinson's trial. Jem often accuses Scout of "acting like a girl" to challenge her bravery, pushing her to join risky ventures. His puberty creates distance between them, leaving Scout feeling confused and sometimes isolated.
Why does Jem say Boo Radley wants to stay inside after Tom Robinson's trial?
In chapter 23, Jem says Boo Radley stays inside to avoid the prejudice and hatred in Maycomb, which have been put on full display by the Tom Robinson trial.
Reasons behind Dill and Jem's desire to give Boo Radley a note in To Kill a Mockingbird
Dill and Jem want to give Boo Radley a note because they are curious about him and want to make contact. They hope to coax him out of his house and learn more about the mysterious figure who has fascinated them for so long.
In To Kill a Mockingbird, what event led to Jem's broken arm according to Jem and Scout?
According to Scout, Jem's broken arm resulted from Bob Ewell's revenge for Atticus defending Tom Robinson, leading to Ewell attacking Jem and Scout. Jem, however, believes it started when Dill suggested making Boo Radley come out. The differing perspectives highlight the broader chain of events, from the Ewells' actions to the children's interactions with Boo Radley.
Why do Jem and Scout disobey Atticus' order to stay away from the jail?
Jem and Scout disobey Atticus' order to stay away from the jail due to different motivations. Jem wants to protect his father, recognizing the danger of the mob, while Scout's innocence and naivety prevent her from understanding the situation's gravity. Their presence ultimately helps to diffuse the mob's aggression, and despite his initial upset, Atticus is grateful for their bravery.
Jem and Scout's Growing Apart in To Kill a Mockingbird
In To Kill a Mockingbird, Jem and Scout begin to grow apart due to Jem’s maturation and the influences of their environment. Jem, nearing adolescence, becomes more independent, serious, and introspective, particularly as he grapples with the racial injustices surrounding Tom Robinson's trial. He is influenced by Atticus's integrity and responsibilities, while Scout remains more childish and superstitious. Their differences are highlighted when Jem risks retrieving his pants from the Radley yard, prioritizing his father's approval over safety, which Scout cannot comprehend.
Jem's Explanation of Miss Caroline's Teaching in To Kill a Mockingbird
In To Kill a Mockingbird, Jem humorously explains Miss Caroline's teaching method to Scout, mistakenly calling it the "Dewey Decimal System," confusing it with John Dewey's educational theories. Miss Caroline uses experiential learning, involving sight words on cards, which contrasts with Atticus's practical teaching approach. Harper Lee uses humor through Jem's malapropism and the irony of Miss Caroline's ineffective teaching style compared to Atticus's real-life applicable methods, engaging the reader with wit and subtle critique of educational practices.
What does Maudie's comparison of Jem to Jack reveal about Jem's thoughts on Boo and the tree items?
Maudie's comparison of Jem to Jack Finch highlights Jem's growing maturity and understanding of the world. While Jem initially entertains childish fantasies about Boo Radley, like suggesting Boo might be stuffed up a chimney, he also shows a protective instinct towards Boo and Scout. Jem, like Jack, uses humor and fantasy to shield others from harsh realities, indicating his emerging awareness that Boo's reclusiveness is a result of something more serious than local myths suggest.
Why does Jem ask Scout not to antagonize Aunt Alexandra in To Kill a Mockingbird?
Jem asks Scout not to antagonize Aunt Alexandra because he recognizes the immense pressure Atticus is under due to the upcoming trial of Tom Robinson. Jem understands that Atticus is deeply worried and doesn't want additional family conflicts to burden him further. Although Scout doesn't fully grasp the situation, Jem insists that keeping peace with Aunt Alexandra is crucial to avoid adding to Atticus's stress, even threatening to spank Scout if she disobeys.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
