Final answer:
Jem was deeply impacted by what Atticus told him and what he experienced while dealing with Mrs. Dubose. Through empathy and understanding, Jem learned valuable life lessons about forgiveness and the complexities of human nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
After Jem witnessed the confrontation between Atticus and Mrs. Dubose, he was profoundly impacted by what Atticus told him and what he experienced. Atticus explained to Jem that Mrs. Dubose was struggling with a morphine addiction and was trying to rid herself of it before she died. Jem was initially angry with Atticus for making him read to Mrs. Dubose, but as he got to know her better and understood the strength and courage it took for her to fight her addiction, he began to develop empathy and compassion for her.
Jem's experience with Mrs. Dubose taught him valuable life lessons about understanding and forgiveness. Despite her harsh and racist comments, Jem was able to see beyond her outward demeanor and recognize the underlying struggles she faced. This experience helped shape Jem's character and mature his perspectives on empathy, tolerance, and the complexities of human nature.