The Theme of Adolescence and Rebellion

The novel's portrayal of teenage rebellion against authority.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Rejection of Authority

The Rebellion The Teachers and Administrators Charlie rebels against all authority figures: his father, Principal Denver, Don Grace, and the police. He sees them as hypocrites and oppressors. The Class's Complicity The other students initially obey Charlie but eventually join him in attacking Ted. They rebel against the social order represented by Ted. The Aftermath The rebellion is both liberating and destructive. Charlie is punished, but the class is changed forever.

The Search for Authenticity

The Desire for Realness Sandra's Confession Sandra Cross seeks authenticity through sex. She feels fake in her everyday life and finds reality in dangerous encounters. Pig Pen's Story John Dano (Pig Pen) reveals his abusive mother and his desire to escape. He feels ground down by her. Charlie's Quest Charlie wants to be seen as a person, not a file. His rebellion is a desperate attempt to assert his existence.

Throughout the novel

Throughout the novel, especially in the confessions