Internal and External conflict in The Wave Yi Fei (Fiona) Chen 10th Grade

Conflict is a polysomic notion that shaped by a contradictory relationship between individualism and cultural solidarity. Todd Strasser's The Wave (1981) explores both internal and external conflicts that arise within and between characters as a direct response to the existence of the Wave. Despite the problematic nature of conflict, Todd Strasser reveals how conflict may engender meaningful introspect insights and often driving transformation as a whole.

The Wave suggests that individuals must undergo numbers of internal and psychological conflicts in order to learn from their environment and enact change within themselves and on others. Initially, Laurie and David are enthusiastic about the Wave as they recognise it as opportunity to help vulnerable classmates from being excluded as well as a chance to revive the school football team. However, the didactic tone of "But still, people have to do things in their own way. You talk about the greatness of this country and you're talking about people who weren't afraid to act as individuals" accentuates the concept of individuality over group identity, diminishing Laurie's excitement and approval towards the Wave, resulting in ongoing psychological and internal conflicts to...