From: linda ryan <linda_ryan58>
Date: Tue, 04 Nov 2003 20:40:41 +0000

Maybe this list will help:

 Characteristics of the "Coming of Age" Novel

      

 1. "In some way, all coming-of-age stories address the quest to define one
    self."

 2. The relationship with the parent and parent-figures changes.

 3. The main character changes or solidifies his/her role in the family.

 4. The character may ?rebel? from the parent figures.

 5. The character develops an awareness of his/her own sexuality and the gender
    role he/she is expected to play in life.

 6. The importance of the character?s peer group increases and may eventually
    become stronger than the influence the parent figures or siblings have on
    the character.

 7. The character becomes aware of the community?s beliefs, values and
    stereotypes and may begin to question some commonly accepted ways of
    thinking and behaving.

 8. The character begins to develop an awareness of him/herself in relation to
    the outside world.

 9. The character increases his/her educational level, and his/her
    educational/career goals begin to take shape.
   
Received on Tue 04 Nov 2003 02:40:41 PM CST