To Kill A Mockingbird Characterization of Jem Scout “It is easier to be brave when someone needs your protection” is an excellent quote by Robert Jordan that highly illustrates Jem Finch from the classic To Kill A Mockingbird. This novel by Harper Lee is told through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl who is surrounded by racism and poverty. Scout and her more mature older brother Jem go through several challenges in their sleepy and southern town Maycomb, due to their Father Atticus’ important lawyer case defending a black man. In the novel To Kill A Mockingbird, Harper Lee uses characterization to portray Jem Finch as protective through him constantly telling Scout uplifting things, stopping her from things she should not be doing, and the act of putting her needs before his.
Jem Finch is a father figure to Scout and protects her emotions.
…show more content…
This is shown when Scout is chewing gum found in the knot hole of the Radley tree, she does not understand how dangerous that can be. Jem questioned Scout by saying “‘ Don’t you know you’re not supposed to even touch trees over there?” You’ll get killed if you do”’ (Lee 45). Jems statement shows he worries about his younger sister and wants to protect her from the mysterious Radleys. Scouts lack of responsibility can put even more pressure on Jem because he strives to make Atticus proud.
Jem is caring and protective when Atticus is not around. This is highlighted when Miss. Maudie’s house is on fire during a cold night and Atticus is busy helping her. Scout explained “Jem tried to keep me warm, but his arm was not long enough” (Lee 94). Jems act of keeping Scout warm shows that he know his responsibility as a big brother. It also displays that he cares about his sister's needs and will be a father figure to Scout when Atticus is not around. Although he can get very angry at her, it is never enough to destroy their