1. "I reckon it'd be different if your father didn't get all his ideas from books." (Chapter 5)
* Context: Jem is defending Atticus's decision to defend Tom Robinson. This quote reveals Jem's early understanding that Atticus is a man of principle and justice, even if it goes against the prevailing opinions of Maycomb.
2. "I'm not going to be like Atticus, he's so old and he's so... slow." (Chapter 5)
* Context: Jem, frustrated with Atticus's reluctance to participate in the typical childhood games, reveals his desire to grow up quickly and be seen as "manly."
3. "The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience." (Chapter 11)
* Context: Jem is reflecting on the unfair treatment of Tom Robinson. This quote highlights Jem's growing awareness of the hypocrisy of the town and its prejudice, and his respect for his father's conscience.
4. "It's time you started believin' what you see, Scout. Sometimes the things that seem the most real ain't so." (Chapter 25)
* Context: Jem is talking to Scout about the trial and the harsh realities of the adult world. This quote demonstrates Jem's maturing perspective and his disillusionment with the moral fabric of Maycomb.
5. "It ain't right, Scout. It ain't right." (Chapter 30)
* Context: Jem is speaking about the mob's attempt to lynch Tom Robinson. These words capture Jem's deep sense of injustice and his grief over Tom's suffering. This quote also reveals Jem's empathy for others, even those he doesn't know personally.
These quotes showcase Jem's journey from a naive child to a young man grappling with the complexities of the adult world. They highlight his developing conscience, his changing relationship with his father, and his evolving understanding of justice and prejudice.