What is at the root of the rivalry between Aaron and Ezra? What does their rivalry say about Aaron? How does Rachel react to it?

What do you think is at the root of the rivalry between Aaron and his cousin Ezra? What does the character of their rivalry say about Aaron? How does Rachel react to their rivalry?

Ezra seems a bit more successful that Aaron so Aaron responds to that. But I think it is just typical male competition that occurred at the time. It seems pretty juvenile.

I agree with Navy Mom, but another part of the rivalry has to do with their actions during the war. The fact that Aaron was stationed in California in the catering corp seemed to actually be a point of embarrassment for Aaron. And then there's the children that Ezra has and Aaron doesn't. Ezra's family is also more observant than Aaron and Rachel are, which I also think makes Aaron feel like he doesn't measure up to his cousin.

I think Aaron resents Ezra for many things. He is more successful, has children, did more in the war, etc. Also, Ezra claims to be a better Jew than Aaron. I am not certain why Aaron that he does not want to follow tradition.