Bildungsroman

BildungsromanDefinition: A coming- of- age text; a novel that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of its main character from his or her youth to adulthood. • A Bildungsroman is a story of the growing up of a sensitive

person who looks for answers to his questions through different experiences. Generally, such a novel starts with a loss or a tragedy that disturbs the main character emotionally. He or she leaves on a journey to fill that vacuum. • During the journey, the protagonist gains maturity gradually and

with difficulty. Usually, the plot depicts a conflict between the protagonist and the values of society. Finally, he or she accepts those values and they are accepted by the society, ending the dissatisfaction. Such a type of novel is also known as a coming-of-age novel.• http://literarydevices.net/bildungsroman/

BildungsromanExample:• Jane Eyre from Jane Eyre • Loss or tragedy- Jane loses both parents when she is a a baby.

She goes to live with a family who resents her and subsequently abuses her. • Journey- She leaves her home at Gateshead to go to school at

Lowood. After many trials and tribulations, she leaves Lowood to become a governess at Thornfield Manor. • Conflicts with society:• Independence of a woman• Marrying outside of class• Poverty and the lack of assistance for those in need• Education for lower classes