"Bildungsroman" is a literary term that refers to a
coming-of-age novel or narrative that focuses on the personal and psychological
growth, development, and maturation of the protagonist as they transition from
childhood to adulthood. The term is of German origin, with "Bildung"
meaning "formation" or "education," and "Roman"
meaning "novel."
•
The
term was coined in 1819 by philologist Karl Morgenstern in his
university lectures, and was later famously reprised by Wilhelm Dilthey,
who legitimized it in 1870 and popularized it in 1905.
• The birth of the Bildungsroman is
normally dated to the publication of Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship by Johann
Wolfgang von Goethe in 1795–96
• The Bildungsroman arose
in Germany, it has had extensive influence first in Europe and later throughout
the world
• A Bildungsroman is a
growing up or "coming of age" of a generally naive person who goes in
search of answers to life's questions with the expectation that these will
result in gaining experience of the world. The genre evolved from folklore
tales of a dunce or youngest child going out in the world to seek his
fortune. Usually in the beginning of the story there is an emotional loss
which makes the protagonist leave on his or her journey.
• In a Bildungsroman, the
goal is maturity, and the protagonist achieves it gradually and with
difficulty. The genre often features a main conflict between the main character
and society. Typically, the values of society are gradually accepted by the
protagonist and he or she is ultimately accepted into society—the protagonist's
mistakes and disappointments are over. In some works, the protagonist is able
to reach out and help others after having achieved maturity.
Key characteristics of a bildungsroman include:
Protagonist's Growth: The central theme of a bildungsroman is the protagonist's
journey of self-discovery, learning, and growth. The narrative often follows
the character's emotional, intellectual, and moral development.
Transition to Adulthood: The narrative usually spans a significant portion of
the protagonist's life, starting from their youth and progressing into
adulthood. The focus is on their evolving understanding of the world and their
place in it.
Conflict and Challenges: The protagonist typically faces various challenges,
conflicts, and obstacles that help them develop resilience, character, and a
deeper understanding of themselves and their surroundings.
Education and Mentorship: The protagonist often encounters mentors, guides, or
influential figures who provide guidance, wisdom, and life lessons. These
mentors play a crucial role in the protagonist's development.
Identity and Self-Discovery: The bildungsroman delves into the
protagonist's search for identity, including questions about their beliefs,
values, ambitions, and purpose in life.
Cultural and Social Context: The narrative often reflects the
cultural, social, and historical context in which the protagonist's growth
occurs. This can include exploration of societal norms, traditions, and
changes.
Narrative Structure: The bildungsroman typically follows a chronological narrative
structure that mirrors the protagonist's chronological growth. This structure
allows readers to witness the gradual transformation of the character.
Examples of bildungsroman novels:
1. ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee: This novel follows
the growth of Scout Finch as she learns about racism, injustice, and morality
while her father defends an innocent black man accused of rape. Scout's
understanding of her community and the world around her evolves as she
witnesses these events.
2. ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens: The story
revolves around Pip's transition from a lower-class background to becoming a
gentleman. The novel explores his moral development, the consequences of his
choices, and his realization of what truly matters in life.
3. ‘The Catcher in the Rye’ by J.D. Salinger: The novel
chronicles Holden Caulfield's experiences in New York City following his
expulsion from school. Through his encounters with various people, Holden
grapples with his own alienation, identity, and the complexities of adulthood.
4. ‘Jane Eyre’ by Charlotte Brontë: The novel traces the life
of Jane Eyre from her troubled childhood to her adulthood. It explores her
struggles with class, gender, and personal independence while seeking to
understand her own worth and place in society.
These novels are just a few examples of the bildungsroman
genre, each showcasing the protagonist's growth and development as they
navigate the challenges and experiences that shape their journey from youth to
adulthood.