Final answer:
Bernice's act of rebellion is seen through her decision to bob her hair after internalizing criticism from Marjorie about fitting in. This act symbolizes her struggle to assert her identity while conforming to societal expectations. Marjorie's role highlights a superficial social environment, complicating the nature of Bernice's rebellion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symbolic act of rebellion in the narrative provided revolves around the character Bernice who, influenced by Marjorie, decides to make changes in her appearance and attitude. Initially, Bernice is portrayed as socially awkward and different from the trendy and socially adept Marjorie.
As Bernice internalizes the criticism and attempts to conform to social expectations, her act of rebellion can be interpreted through her decision to modify herself to fit in, particularly when she decides to bob her hair, which at the time was a bold and modern statement. This act is symbolic of her internal conflict and her effort to assert her identity in the face of social pressures.
Marjorie's insistent push for Bernice to change reflects a deeper rebellion against societal norms and the expectations placed upon young women. Marjorie's strategy might seem supportive, but it also underscores a judgmental and superficial social environment, suggesting Marjorie's own compliance with that culture.
Bernice's transformation, therefore, becomes a complicated act of rebellion, as it is both an acceptance of external standards and a personal step towards self-assertion.