Even though the violence in Jumped only really occurs on one page at the end of the story, the threat of violence and effects of violence permeate the whole book. Violence is, to Dominique, a solution to the perceived slight on her reputation. Really, though, the reason Dominique attacks Trina has to do with misdirected anger and a search for control. So violence functions as an outlet for anger that should be directed elsewhere.
Plus, the one-sided fight isn't something that the students condemn. Instead, they crowd around and view the fight as entertainment, as something to relish and savor. The lead up to the attack and the attack itself are just drama—fun when it happens to someone else, but dangerous when it gets personal.
Questions About Violence
- Why doesn't Leticia try to stop Dominique from jumping Trina?
- Why does Dominique really attack Trina? (Hint: It's not because Trina brushed by her in the hallway.) Think about why Dominique is actually mad and why Dominique says she's attacking Trina.
- What are the effects of the fight on Dominique and Trina? What are the broader effects of the fight? Think about Leticia, Bea, and the school itself.
Chew on This
Dominique isn't the only one to blame for the violent attack; the spectators are equally as responsible.
Dominique isn't to blame for her actions; she's simply finding an outlet for the aggression and anger that has naturally built up inside of her.