In the film "Wonder," Via's relationship with her brother Auggie greatly influences her experiences at school in several ways.
Firstly, her protective instincts towards Auggie shape how she interacts with her classmates. Via often feels the need to defend Auggie from bullying and maintains a certain level of vigilance around him. This protective role can create a sense of anxiety for her at school, as she worries about Auggie's well-being, which adds pressure to her own social interactions and experiences.
For example, when her friends make jokes about Auggie without knowing the full context, Via feels hurt and conflicted. This moment highlights the protective bond between the siblings, as Via navigates her loyalty to Auggie while trying to maintain her friendships.
Secondly, Via struggles with feeling overshadowed by Auggie’s needs. Throughout her school experience, she often puts his needs before her own, which can lead to feelings of isolation and neglect of her own identity and desires. In one poignant scene, she expresses her frustration about always being the "strong" sibling who must take care of Auggie, wishing for a moment where she can focus solely on her own life and challenges.
Lastly, her relationship with Auggie also brings moments of strength and pride. Via’s connection to him fosters a sense of empathy and resilience within her. She learns to embrace her brother’s uniqueness, which helps her stand strong against peer pressure and inspires her to forge her own path while still being supportive of Auggie.
In conclusion, Via's relationship with Auggie deeply impacts her school experience by instilling a sense of responsibility, sometimes leading to emotional struggles, yet also imbuing her with strength and compassion that ultimately helps shape her character.