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Coming of Age Narratives. Purpose of the tale…. A coming of age narrative is a tale which focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from youth to adulthood.
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Purpose of the tale… A coming of age narrative is a tale which focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from youth to adulthood. • These tales tend to rely on dialogue and emotional responses rather than action to demonstrate the growth and personal change. • Often are told in the past tense.
Characters… • Main character will be a dynamic character. • Typically male (though as in the case of TKM can certainly be female as well.) • Generally mid to late teen in age. • Will begin the tale seeing the world as a child. • Heavily reliant on rule and protection of adults. • Ends the tale taking care of him/herself.
Situations… • Tales tend to put these characters in unfamiliar situations and surroundings either within the real world or the imagination. • Quests often play a role in coming of age narratives. • Generally a challenge especially one which is self imposed. • Rite of passage • Tales tend to follow characters through a long period. • Situations lead to the character’s perspective changing.
The Loss of Innocence “Coming of Age Tale’s” ugly twin. • Protagonists tend to be younger. (Scout in TKM, Ralph in LoF) • Rights of passage are either undertaken against the wishes of the adult, or are forced on the child through no fault of their own. • Often traumatic. This often uses the story of “Adam and Eve” as an underpinning. • Be on the lookout for Biblical imagery or reference. • Apples
Topics which develop into themes… Remember: Themes are unique messages about topics. Topic often address in coming of age literature developing: • Personal philosophy • Sexual identity • Political opinions (these may not be typical USA democratic opinions)