Assignment 3) On pages 52-54, how does Gene’s view of their relationship change? (Be sure to explain his usage of enmity). What does he think of it? How do you know this? Why does he feel this way? Do you think it is accurate? Why or why not? (Stephen)

Gene’s view of Finny goes from thinking Finny was better and being jealous of him, to thinking of themselves as equals and creating a rivalry. On page 52, Gene thinks of Finny as better than him. This is because of his outstanding athletic achievements, such as breaking the swimming record. This creates his jealousy. Since Gene could not be as good as Finny athletically, he decides to excel where Finny does not, academically. By doing this, he says, “We would be even, that was all” (Knowles 52). This quote shows his jealousy, as it implies that they are not even already. But after a short talk with Finny, he starts to make irrational conclusions. He starts to think that Finny is trying to tear him down, and keep himself above. He creates false enmity between them, thinking of them as rivals rather than friends. This is shown when he says to himself, “You are even in enmity. You are both coldly driving ahead for yourselves alone.” Gene thinks this because Finny is making him attend so many things like, blitzball, and the Super Suicide Society. He only realizes this is not true after doubling his studying efforts. Gene went from being jealous of Finny, to thinking there is a rivalry between them for a short time.