Catcher and the Rye: A Coming of Age novel
Genre Format Called a Bildungsroman novel. This type of novel concentrates on the spiritual, moral, psychological, or social development and growth of the main character. Character passes from childhood to maturity (physical, psychological, social, sexual).
Elements of Bildungsroman -The protagonist must have some reason to go on this journey. -A loss or discontent must jar him or her at an early stage away from the home or family setting.
The Process -The process of maturation is long, difficult, and gradual. -It consists of repeated clashes between the needs or desires of the hero and the views and judgments enforced by an unbending social order.
Process of Bildungsroman -Eventually, the spirit and values of the social order become present in the protagonist, who is then accommodated into society. -The novel ends with an assessment by the protagonist of himself/herself and his/her new place in that society.