Bildungsroman: Form and Function

A Bildungsroman is a literary genre that focuses on a character’s psychological and moral growth from youth to adulthood, often emphasizing self-discovery and personal development. The term, German in origin, translates to "coming-of-age" novel. Its form typically includes a protagonist facing challenges, learning lessons, and evolving over time. The function of a Bildungsroman is to explore human development, societal expectations, and identity formation, providing readers with insight into the process of becoming oneself within a cultural context. It aims to evoke empathy and understanding of personal growth through engaging storytelling.