Even the strongest, most determined people have their breaking point. In James Hurst’s short story, “The Scarlet Ibis” the narrator tries to lift his disabled brother, Doodle, to his impossible expectations. His hard work, dedication, and his tough ways benefit and damage his brother. The narrator’s pride makes selfish and cruel sometimes, but very determined. The narrator was occasionally cruel to Doodle. The narrator tries to get Doodle to touch the coffin that was built for him when he was born. When Doodle refuses, he threatens, “Then I’ll leave you here by yourself”. Doodle, being young and handicapped, is very dependent on his brother. Being alone terrifies him, and he uses that fear to force his brother to do something that scares