johnny struggles to overcome his arrogance and impatience and develop into a humble, generous young man

Early in the novel, Johnny is excessively proud of his skills as a silversmith. He believes he is too good to be friends with the other apprentices––especially Dove––and has a pompous manner with the people around him. After his hand is burned, Johnny must learn new skills. Although his proud attitude does not go away overnight (he turns down several job offers because he thinks they are beneath him), he eventually learns humility by following the example of Rab, a reserved older boy who shows Johnny the benefits of being modest.