Jem vs. Mrs. Dubose

Jem's personal vendetta against Mrs. Dubose evolves into an understanding of her courage.

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The Hatred

The Hatred The Daily Torture Mrs. Dubose insults Jem and Scout every time they pass. She calls Atticus a nigger-lover. Jem hates her with a passion. The Escalation Jem endures her abuse for months. He tries to be a gentleman, as Atticus advises, but it is difficult. The tension builds. The Breaking Point When Mrs. Dubose says Atticus is no better than the niggers and trash he works for, Jem snaps. He destroys her camellias.

The Forced Proximity

The Forced Proximity The Reading Sessions Jem must read to Mrs. Dubose every day. He is resentful but obedient. He sees her up close for the first time. The Witnessing of Fits Jem observes Mrs. Dubose's fits. He is frightened and disgusted. He does not understand what is happening. The Growing Awareness As the sessions continue, Jem notices that the fits become less frequent. He senses that something is changing, but he does not know what.

The Revelation

The Revelation The Camellia Gift Mrs. Dubose leaves Jem a white camellia. Atticus explains that she was a morphine addict who broke her addiction before dying. The Explanation of Courage Atticus says that Mrs. Dubose was the bravest person he ever knew. She knew she was licked but began anyway. The Reconciliation Jem initially throws the flower away, but later he touches the petals. He understands that Mrs. Dubose was not just a mean old woman. She was a person fighting a terrible battle. His hatred turns to respect.

over the years

during the month of reading

after her death