4 Stages of Coming of Age
Coincidentally, Zoe-Pascale's is studying Coming of Age, what it means and reading books that depict these types of stories. Synchronicity at work. Through this she is learning that Coming of Age consists of 4 stages and has 9 characteristics (hey, I'm learning something too). Her favorite example of this is Harry Potter -- it is ripe of Coming of Age stories.
The 4 Stages
REALIZATION -- changing, emotional and mental preparation, growing
REMOVAL --- change environment, separation, experiment
CHALLENGE --- prove if ready
REINTEGRATION - back into society, rebirth, new status
Nine Characteristics of a Coming of Age experience or story
- Between the ages of 12-18
- Adults are either "bad guys" or not important ( we warned her that this is normal if we are the bad guys from time to time.)
- Usually involves a journey of some sort
- Must confront your fears
- Conflict with a parent /guardian
- Learning something important
- Involving a test or challenges
- The ending may be bittersweet
- Scarification (there are often scars left - physical or/and emotional)