Jem And Scout's Relationship

In the beginning of the novel, it becomes evident that Jem and Scout are different from the other children we observe in the novel because Jem and Scout have a parent who “truly has their best interest at heart (Gonzalez 1). Because of this caring atmosphere, Jem includes his sister in the majority of his activities since they are playmates, both still young enough to need each other. However, Jem is seen as a childish boy who creates games for himself, his sister, and friends to play. In chapter four, Jem says, “’I know what we are going to play,’ he announced. ‘Something new, something different’” (Lee 30). The children proceed to act out a play about Boo Radley’s, a mysterious unseen neighbor; as a result, they experience many dangerous activities;
Eventually, Jem begins to establish rules for Scout and attempts to make her mind, especially in chapter 14 when Jem tells Scout, “Now I mean it, Scout, you antagonize Aunty and I’ll—I’ll spank you” (116). Regardless of this turbulent time in their relationship, Jem changes towards his sister with further growth and maturation. He develops an understanding and compassion for Scout evident when Atticus and Aunt Alexandra are too tired to take Scout to the “agricultural pageant” at school; therefore, Jem accompanies her. When Bob Ewell attacks the children in chapter 28, Jem tries to fight him off, telling Scout, “Run, Scout, run!” (Lee 222). Scout feels Jem’s “hand leave me, felt him jerked backward. More scuffling, and there came a dull crunching sound and Jem screamed” (Lee 222). Jem fights for his sister, resulting in a broken arm, which is pointed out at the beginning of the novel. ¬¬¬ Jem and Scout have a typical brother and sister relationship; sometimes they fight and sometimes they are best friends. Jem grows and matures in his relationship with his sister, creating a dynamic character in Lee’s To Kill a