Family and Individuality

Claude struggles against the expectations of his pragmatic father, his pious mother, and his materialistic brother Bayliss. The Wheeler family represents the pressures of conformity, and Claude's quest for self-definition often puts him in conflict with their values and assumptions.

The Wheeler family members have distinct personalities and interests, from Nat's sociability to Bayliss's prudishness and Claude's sensitivity.

Claude's frustration with Ralph's thoughtlessness and his protective bond with Mahailey illustrate his struggle for individuality within the family.

Claude struggles against his family's expectations and his father's domineering humor, seeking autonomy in his education.

Claude cannot assert himself against his parents, who send him to a school he dislikes, and he feels his individuality is suppressed by family expectations.