What happens with Jem, Scout, and the bug?
In Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," Jem and Scout are two young children who live in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama. One of the significant events in the story involves the presence of the "Mad Dog," a dog infected with rabies. The rabid dog enters their neighborhood, and their father, Atticus Finch, is called upon to shoot it.
Initially, Jem is excited at the prospect of his father displaying his shooting skills. However, as Atticus takes aim and kills the dog with a single shot, Jem witnesses his father's hidden talent and realizes that he is not just an ordinary, mild-mannered lawyer.
The "bug" in this context refers to the term "Mad Dog." The rabid dog is referred to as a "mad dog" because it is infected with rabies, which can cause aggression and madness in animals. The incident involving the "bug" helps Jem and Scout gain a new perspective on their father's abilities and confidence.
Overall, the presence of the "bug" (mad dog) serves as a significant moment in the story, highlighting the courage and skill of Atticus Finch and shaping Jem and Scout's perceptions of their father.