What key experience does Jonas undergo in "The Giver"?

In "The Giver," Jonas undergoes a profound journey of discovering the importance of memory. As he begins to receive memories from The Giver, he realizes that the memories of pain, joy, color, and emotion are what define the human experience. This knowledge highlights the depth of life and the significance of both happy and sad moments in shaping our identities and understanding of the world.

Through his experiences, Jonas learns that a society devoid of memory is also lacking in essential human qualities—such as love, empathy, and the capacity for true emotional connection. His deepening understanding of memory leads him to question the rules of his society, ultimately driving his desire for change and a more authentic existence. This pivotal realization forms the crux of his character development and sets the stage for his eventual rebellion against the constraints of his community.