During Tom Robinson's trial, Jem becomes convinced that Atticus will win his case. As the son of a lawyer, Jem considers the evidence, and he even remarks to Scout, "we're gonna win." Jem believes that facts will determine the outcome of the case. However, Jem soon learns that prejudice is deep and strong in Maycomb County as Tom is found guilty. As the guilty verdict is read, it is as if Jem almost experiences physical pain each time the word "guilty" is stated. It is during this time that Jem leaves behind his childhood innocence as he is forced to comprehend why an innocent man is found guilty.
Jem's movement into adulthood is symbolized through Miss Maudie's cakes. She bakes two small cakes and one large cake. Scout assumes that Miss Maudie has forgotten about Dill. However, it turns out that the large cake is for Jem. Miss Maudie cuts a slice from the large cake and gives it to him. This is her way of letting Jem know that she understands his pain and that she views him as a man and not a child.
The outcome of Tom Robinson's trial pushes Jem over the threshold toward adulthood. Jem is absolutely devastated by the verdict; in fact, it makes him cry. He cannot believe that the jurors could have delivered such a blatantly unjust verdict despite there being no credible evidence of Tom's guilt. The jury's guilty verdict symbolizes the end of Jem's innocence. He tells Miss Maudie that he had always previously believed that most people in Maycomb were good. Now that his childhood illusions have been shattered, he no longer feels this way.
After the trial, Miss Maudie bakes two small cakes and a large one. The two small cakes are for Scout and Dill as they are still regarded as children. Jem, however, receives a slice from the large cake. This is Miss Maudie's way of acknowledging that Jem has finally come of age.
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