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What are some examples that depict how Jem is becoming more compassionate and protective towards Scout throughout the novel?


As the novel progresses, Jem develops a more compassionate and protective attitude towards his sister. Following Tom Robinson's trial, Jem and the children witness racial injustice firsthand and lose their childhood innocence. Although Jem is jaded, he develops a sense of empathy for others and becomes more compassionate.


In Chapter 23, Aunt Alexandra tells Scout that she cannot play with Walter Cunningham Jr. because she considers Walter to be "trash." Scout is visibly upset, and Jem comes to her aid. He stops Scout from retaliating by guiding her into his room and giving her a Tootsie Roll. Jem's attempt to comfort his sister depicts his compassion for Scout.


In Chapter 28, Jem walks Scout to Maycomb's Halloween Festival and watches as Scout staggers onto the stage late during the pageant. When Jem sees Scout, he tries to make her feel better by telling Scout that she just came out a little late. Scout mentions,



"Jem was becoming almost as good as Atticus at making you feel right when things went wrong" (Lee 159).



Later that night, Jem and Scout are walking home, and Jem offers to hold Scout's "hock" so she won't lose her balance. Suddenly, Bob Ewell sprints towards them and Jem yells, "Run, Scout! Run! Run!" (Lee 160). Throughout the struggle, Jem does his best to protect Scout, but unfortunately gets knocked unconscious during the attack. Jem's offer to hold Scout's "hock" so she won't fall, as well as his warning for her to run to safety, depict his protective nature.

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