Why would a person decide to betray the beliefs they fought so hard for? In Robert Cormier's novel The Chocolate War, Jerry Renault's character changes dramatically from rebel to follower at the end. The school band known as the Vigils and its moral beliefs motivate Jerry's actions. He feels he must take a stand against evil. Jerry can be considered a hero because of his beliefs. Eventually, though, he gives in to the things he fought against and becomes a follower. There are many factors that make Jerry act the way he does. The main reason is that he was forced by the vigils to refuse chocolates. "When he returned to school after practice, he found a letter taped to his locker door. A summons from vigils. Subject: Assignment." (Cormier 62) Now he is forced to refuse the school's chocolate sales. Now he has to face his brother Leon and tell him no, which will soon make him understand the teachers' feelings. "His eyes gave him away. His face was always under control but his eyes showed his vulnerability."(Cormier 92) Jerry realizes that his brother Leon is busy selling candy and that he is trying to hide his anger at Jerry's rejection. Jerry knows his brother Leon's hatred for him and his fear of failure at selling chocolate. "Late one afternoon, after soccer practice, he met Brother Leon in the hallway and saw hatred flash in the teacher's eyes. More than hatred: something sick." (Cormier 92) Jerry knows that Leon hates him for refusing the chocolates but he doesn't want to give up on Leon and take the chocolates. This is what motivates Jerry to become a rebel. Webster's dictionary defines a hero as any man admired for his courage, qualities, or exploits, especially in war. Some people attribute the term hero primarily to war. My personal definition of a hero is someone who takes a stand against evil or an unjust cause. The term hero can be applied to anyone, you don't have to save the world from exploding to be a hero. The act of defending a friend can also be called a heroic act. In my opinion, Jerry Renault's character can easily be classified as a hero. Jerry stands up for what he believes is right and says no to his brother Leon.