Gem Courage Quotes

Throughout the story, Jem (taken from the word gem meaning a cherished and prized person) is used by Harper Lee as a representation of courage. In the beginning, Jem’s first act of courage occurs when Jem accepts Dill’s provocation to go and touch the Radley house. In the story, Scout says, “In all his life, Jem has never declined a dare” (Lee 16). This quote shows how Jem would never demur any sort of challenge, even if it involved stupid or childish acts like going to a forbidden place. Scout also shows how Jem even accepted a dare from her to jump off the roof of the house as a kid. An Enotes comment says that “Jem was scared but he overcame that fear and ran up and touched the house.” Even though these two acts were childish, they were brave and bold for someone his age and maturity none the less.

Dubose’s camellias on purpose. Even though this may seem reckless and out of resentment, it really was to support his father and his views after Mrs. Dubose made fun of Atticus in front of Jem: “Not only a Finch waiting tables but one in the courthouse lawing for niggers!” (Lee 135) This quote causes Jem’s fit of wrath and also gets him in trouble with his father and results in him having to read to Mrs. Dubose as punishment. Ironically, however, Atticus tells Jem that regardless of what Mrs. Dubose said about him that she was the bravest woman he knew: “I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do” (Lee