TKAM: Character Relationships

Characters: Dill and Francis

Dill and Francis are foils of one another. In other words, they are the complete opposite. Dill can be mean at sometimes, but only because he's with Jem and trying to act tough. If he isn't with Jem, he really is a sweet kid that cares for Scout. Francis on the other hand is just mean. He teases Scout knowing that she will get upset. Another difference between them is their level of maturity. Francis is saying what he heard Aunt Alexandra say, not even what he thinks. He probably does't understand half of the things he says. Dill likes to think for himself. He even tries to get people to see the same as him. Making him sort of debating, which, makes him seem older.

Even tough Dill and Francis are foils of one another they are also alter egos. They act differently, but their physical features are same. For instances, they are both boys. This adds to how they like to play. Dill and Francis like to tease Scout, but Dill does it for fun, while Francis is serious about it. They also are around the same age. They both are around seven year old, so this also plays into the category of how they like to play.

The relationship between Dill and Scout is sometimes hard to distinguish. Sometimes, Dill can get Scout extremely upset, making Scout hate him, but sometimes Dill can be Scout best friend. I would call their relationship to be like one of a brother and sister. They fight sometimes, but always make up and get along afterwards. Scout learns a bunch from Dill as the years pass. She learned that it's not always necessary to follow the group when you know they are heading down a dangerous road. She also learned how to be independent and handle her own situations. Francis relationship with Scout differs from the one with Dill. Francis is like Scout's bully. He is always picking on her and annoying her. She learns from Francis that sometimes you have to blow off some steam when someone is provoking you.