Coming of Age Stories Sometimes called a Bildungsroman

Coming of Age Stories

Sometimes called a Bildungsroman, a coming of age story focuses on the following: • A protagonist who is – Socially or psychologically maturing – Receiving an “education” but not just in a traditional school

The character’s growth begins when • He/she is faced with loss or discovery… – Character may lose innocence – Character may struggle with knowledge that the adult world is complex – Character may find the “absolutes” of childhood no longer exist ( there is not always a right or wrong answer)

The character’s growth is shown by • Clashes between what he/she wants and rules of society • The character trying to establish his/her own rules • The character trying to become an active participant in the world

Sometimes the stories contain • An initiation, trial, or rite of passage – Religious ceremony, membership in a club, birthday, etc.

Sometimes the stories contain • An epiphany… a sudden realization of truth about him/herself or the world • An epiphany sometimes includes seeing the world for what it really is or people for who they are • An epiphany is sometimes called an “aha” moment.

Sometimes the stories contain • Loss of innocence – Common symbols are fruit, gardens/forests, purity that has spoiled or gone rotten

Sometimes the stories contain • A journey – A real or symbolic one

Cassie is our protagonist. • Look for her – Growth – Clashes with society – Rite of passage – Epiphany – Journey